The Cayman Brac and Little Cayman Immigration Board (“the Board”) advises that it continues to comprehensively review work permit applications for employment on the Sister Islands. In carrying out its statutory responsibilities, the Board carefully assesses each application to ensure compliance with applicable immigration laws and regulations, including determining whether there is a genuine need to employ a non-Caymanian worker.
The Board reminds employers of their obligation to ensure that all work permit applications accurately reflect the position being filled, including the job title, duties, qualifications, experience requirements, and applicable work permit fees. Applications must clearly demonstrate a legitimate operational need and comply fully with the requirements of the immigration laws and regulations in the Cayman Islands.
While the Board recognises the important role the Sister Islands’ business community plays in supporting the local economy and remains committed to processing applications fairly and efficiently, employers are expected to meet their legal obligations and submit only genuine, compliant applications. The Board will continue to balance the workforce needs of businesses with its statutory duty to protect opportunities for qualified Caymanians and uphold the integrity of the immigration system.
When submitting applications businesses and persons are reminded to submit them in a timely manner, especially where a worker is transitioning from a Temporary Work Permit to a Work Permit Grant or a Renewal. Delays in processing can occur when applications are incomplete, missing supporting documentation, false information is provided or applications are deemed to not demonstrate a clear genuine labour need. Applications under these circumstances will be not processed.
To avoid disruptions to employment, employers are strongly encouraged to submit work permit applications early and ensure that they are accurate and complete as sometimes, where permitted under legislation, the worker may continue to work pending the processing of the work permit application.
The Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Cayman Brac and Little Cayman Work Permit Board said: “The Board is taking a deliberate and measured approach to strengthening the integrity of the work permit application process. Enhanced due diligence ensures that all applications are properly scrutinised, legislative requirements are adhered to and decisions are based on accurate and complete information.”
They further stated: “The Board understands the workforce challenges faced by many employers and remains committed to working collaboratively with our local business community. By working together and ensuring that applications meet all legislative requirements we hope to further build upon and strengthen a system which aims to support local economic development, protect opportunities for Caymanians and serve the long-term interests of the Sister Islands and the Country as whole.”
Businesses are encouraged to contact the WORC Employment Services Unit to speak with Officer who specialise in assisting available Caymanian job seekers with fulltime employment. This step should be considered before applying for a work permit. Email WORCemploymentServices@gov.ky or call 649-8087 or toll free 1-800-534-9672 or visit worc.ky to learn more about WORC’s employment services.