Joint Select Committee To Review Immigration & Citizenship Bills 2025

Barbadians are being invited to share their views on two major pieces of legislation that will shape the future of the island’s immigration and citizenship framework.

The Immigration Bill, 2025 and the Barbados Citizenship Bill, 2025 have been referred by the Honourable the Senate to a Joint Select Committee (Standing) on Governance and Policy Matters for detailed examination.

The Committee, comprising Members of both Houses of Parliament, has been tasked with reviewing the draft legislation to ensure it supports Barbados’ long-term goals of sustainable population growth, national development, and global competitiveness.

Membership of the Committee

• Marsha Caddle – Chairman
• Peter Phillips
• Dr. Romel Springer
• Ralph Thorne
• Chad Blackman
• Senator Gregory Nicholls
• Senator Andwele Boyce
• Senator Ryan Walters
• Senator the Hon. Lindell Nurse

The Committee held its first meeting on Monday, September 5, 2025, at the Parliament of Barbados, Trafalgar Street, Bridgetown.

Public Consultation and Submissions

In accordance with parliamentary practice, the Committee invites and encourages members of the public, including individuals, professional organisations, community-based groups, and other interested bodies, to submit memoranda or other documents setting out their views and comments on the Bills.

Those making written submissions may also indicate if they wish to appear before the Committee to make an oral presentation (up to 10 minutes). Persons who prefer to make an oral presentation only are also invited to indicate their interest.

Written submissions should be addressed to:  The Clerk of Parliament, Parliament of Barbados, Parliament Buildings, Trafalgar Street, Bridgetown. Emails should be sent to parliamentbarbados@caribsurf.com.

Submissions must be received by Monday, October 27, 2025.

Public Hearings

The proceedings of the Joint Select Committee will be conducted in public at the Parliament of Barbados. Sessions will be livestreamed via the Barbados Parliament’s website, on social media, and broadcast on CBC TV, where possible.

Notices of meeting dates will be published on the Barbados Parliament website: www.barbadosparliament.com.

Outcome

Upon completion of its review, the Committee will submit a comprehensive report to both Houses of Parliament, including:

• Findings on the adequacy and effectiveness of the Immigration and Citizenship Bills, 2025;
• Recommendations for amendments or policy adjustments; and
• Proposals to strengthen managed migration, diaspora engagement, and national development strategies to enhance Barbados’ global competitiveness.

The Immigration Bill, 2025 and the Barbados Citizenship Bill, 2025 are available for public review and comment at www.barbadosparliament.com. (PR/GIS)