BRA Issues Policy Note on Rental Car Companies Designated as Direct Tourism Services

The Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA) has issued a policy note advising that, with effect from October 1, 2026, approved rental car companies are designated Direct Tourism Service providers under the Tourism Levy Act, 2019-57. 

The designation follows the Budgetary Proposals and Financial Statement for 2026/2027. The policy note explains who qualifies as an approved rental car company, what is charged, and how the services are administered. Additionally, the policy note sets out a conditional concession for relief from import duty, excise tax and value added tax (VAT) on qualifying new battery electric, plug-in hybrid and full hybrid vehicles, subject to approval. 

The Authority encourages rental car companies to review the Approved Rental Car Companies Policy Note, which can be downloaded from the website at www.bra.gov.bb for details on eligibility, registration and other requirements.