September 20, 2022
FAQs
Self-Employed – Employer or Self-employed
“As a self-employed person in Barbados you pay contributions, whether you’re from Trinidad or Timbucktu”
How do I know if I’m self-employed?
You’re self-employed if you are between ages 16 and pensionable age and employed in Barbados. However, your employment will not be under a contract in accordance with Section 12 of the National Insurance and Social Security Act, 1970 e.g. partnership, sole traders, medical practitioners and other professionals in private practice.
Suppose I’m a shareholder in a company, am I self-employed?
If you’re a majority shareholder in a limited liability company and involved in the day-to-day operations of the company you may be seen as self-employed. You should check with the National Insurance Office to confirm your insurability status.
I’m British, do I have to pay contributions while I work here?
Nationality makes no difference so contributions must be paid whether or not you’re Barbadian.
I work here for an American textile company that has no local office, what’s my status?
If you’re employed in Barbados by an employer who does not live here and has no place of business here you are self-employed.
I work here as the Honorary Consul of Trinidad and Tobago, what’s my status?
If you’re a national of another country but are employed in Barbados by your government in a diplomatic or military role you are not liable to be insured either as self-employed or as an employed person.
Related Links
Corporate Affairs & Intellectual Property Office
Barbados Youth Business Trust
Barbados Investment & Development Corporation