So what is my first step?

BourbonSt

15 January 2017 00:30:52

Holetown, Saint James

Hi, I want to move to Barbados sometime in the next 4 months. I don't know where to start! Are there immigration issues I need to address before I go? Should I just email a real estate agent?

I plan to rent. I don't know how long I want to stay, but at least 3 months and possibly a year. I have a budget in mind ($3000 US for housing, that includes rent and all associated housing expenses [utilities, electric, TV/internet], but I could go higher if I fall in love with a place). I work for a company located in the US but I work 100% remotely so I want to keep working for them, which I can do as long as I have reliable internet. They deposit my salary into a US account. Are there problems with this?

So what is my first step?

Ebbie1000

13 June 2017 07:54:08

Hastings

Biggest problem will be not getting removed after 26 weeks (leaving for a day or so snd coming back in used to work - now with the computerised system they catch everyone trying it).

If you live in the US, think tax, after 26 weeks here you gecome liable to psy income tax in Barbados on worldwide income.

US$3,000, yes you would just about manage on that, but not if you want to live the expat lifestyle, you'd need $5,000 plus and not too much of the expat thing.

Internet here is excellent - think US75/mth

Think costs here for everything else US x 2 or 3

Rent, US750 - 1,000 for somewhere modest, and I do mean modest - up to 2,000 for furnished and fairly safe, I favour top floor apartments. A saving would be to find someone looking for a roommate - good to start.

There are hefty deposits on phones, electrical connections - off the bus routes there is the costs of a car - thing year one costs for a ten year plus clunker US10-15K

Your biggest problem will likely be the 26 week thing - there should be no work permit issues unless your work is connected to economic av0ctivity in Barbados.

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