Public Consultation Opens on Update to Immigration Application Fees

The Ministry of Caymanian Employment and Immigration has opened public consultation on the proposed update to immigration application fees, which has not been adjusted in more than 15 years. Under the proposed updates, work permit fees will not change but work permit application fees will be restructured under a new tiered system and several new fees will be introduced.

Public consultation is open for a two-week period from 19 February to 5 March 2026.

The proposed changes are set out in the Immigration (Transition) (Fees) Regulations, 2026 and reflect the significant growth in population and demand for public services and infrastructure that the Cayman Islands has experienced since immigration application fees were last reviewed. The updated fee structure is designed to ensure that permit processes are used appropriately, support effective administration, regulation and long-term national resilience.

The increases are based on a tiered structure which will be applied to the following application fees:

• Working by Operation of Law Application Fee;
• Provision for Continuation of Work Application Fee;
• Application for the grant of a Temporary Work Permit;
• Work Permit Application Fee;
• Application fee for the variation of an Annual Work Permit Grant;
• Application fee for the variation of a Temporary Work Permit;
• Express Determination Fee – Business Visitor Permit;
• Express Determination Fee – Temporary Work Permit;
• Introduction of an Express Determination Fee – Annual Work Permit; and
• Permanent Residency (8+ years) Application Fee.

In commenting on the proposed changes to work permit application fees, Minister of Caymanian Employment and Immigration, Hon Michael Myles emphasised, “Work permit fees are not changing. We are, however, increasing various immigration application fees for the first time in over 15 years. This is a necessary step to ensure our fee structure reflects current economic realities and supports the critical infrastructure, administration, and services our growing population depends on. These changes will help strengthen immigration administration and contribute to sustainable national development.”

The public is invited to view the proposed fee schedule and submit feedback by visiting https://publicconsultation.gov.ky/ or visit https://gov.ky/web/mcei/immigrationreform for more immigration information. Written submissions can be emailed to immigrationconsultation@gov.ky by 5 March 2026.

The Ministry has also advised that 1 March 2026 is no longer the commencement date for the new legislation and the public will be advised of the new date in due course.