Government Announces New Work Permit Exemption Criteria

~~Adz:Left~~Roadtown, Tortola: Thursday, August 14 – Government continues to work diligently towards strengthening labour relations in the Territory through the implementation of a new policy for work permit exemptions.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour, Mr. Clyde Lettsome said work permit exemptions will be granted based on enrolment in the school system; marriage to a Belonger for a period of not less than three years; and residency in the Virgin Islands for 20 years or more with good character. 

“We want to ensure that we develop and implement labour policies to effectively manage the human resource needs in the Territory while at the same time recognizing those persons who have demonstrated a long term commitment to the Territory,” said Mr. Lettsome.

The Permanent Secretary further stated that Cabinet is responsible for approving all applications for work permit exemptions and will not consider the award of any exemption for persons residing in the Territory for less than 20 years except in the cases of marriage and enrolment in the school system.

“Applicants residing in the Territory for more than 20 years will be permanently exempted from having to obtain work permits.”

According to Mr. Lettsome, work permit exemptions do not create any enhancement in immigration status and persons are subject to all other immigrant qualifying conditions.

Acting Labour Commissioner Mrs. Oleanvine Maynard said she is pleased with Government’s decision to streamline the eligibility process as it now provides guidelines to applicants interested in applying for work permit exemptions.

“We want to ensure that we fulfil Government’s mandate, while meeting the goals set out in our department’s mission and vision,” said Mrs. Maynard. “The positive way forward can only come through the implementation of proper guidelines and procedures like these.”

Work permit exemption applications will continue to be submitted to the Labour Department.

This new criteria represents Government’s commitment to creating a well- regulated and enabling environment that is conducive to good industrial relations and a regulated flow of workers.