Investigations into immigration and work permit violations that could carry a financial penalty have risen exponentially over three years – but only one fine has been issued so far…
Investigations into immigration and work permit violations that could carry a financial penalty have risen exponentially over three years – but only one fine has been issued so far…
Over the last three years, there has been an increasing number of investigations into complaints of immigration and work permit violations serious enough to warrant a financial penalty.
However, only one individual has actually received a $5,000 civil penalty, and no businesses have been fined.
Furthermore, since 2023 nine visitors were found to be engaged in unauthorised employment and directed to leave Bermuda, while 35 people have been added to the stop-list.
Government recently warned employers and employees to comply with work permit rules, and listed potential consequences such as civil penalties, or being directed to leave Bermuda.
Bermuda Broadcasting requested more background on what prompted such a warning. A Department of Immigration Spokesman advised, “Work Permit violations are classified within the Department’s system as general investigations, which may include a range of infractions under the Bermuda Immigration and Protection Act.”
“Where evidence supports it, these matters may progress to civil penalty investigations.”
In 2023, 34 complaints led to 32 general investigation, two being civil penalty investigations.
There were 79 complaints in 2024, leading to 64 general investigations and 15 civil penalty investigations.
To date in 2025, 46 complaints have been recorded, with 22 general investigations and 24 civil penalty investigations currently underway.
The spokesperson said, “over the past three years, no civil penalties have been issued to companies and one civil penalty was issued to an individual for $5,000.”
We also asked for more information on individuals being directed to leave Bermuda, or even being added to the stop list.
The spokesperson responded, “persons directed to settle their affairs and depart Bermuda are given 90 days unless otherwise directed by the Minister.”
“While statistics are not specifically maintained for individuals who were required to leave due to work permit violations, the Compliance team confirms the departure of all individuals who receive such directives.”
“Stop-list additions may occur for various immigration-related reasons. In 2023, 13 individuals were added to the stop list; in 2024, 19 individuals; and to date in 2025, 3 individuals have been added.”
“Regarding visitors, nine individuals over the past three years were found to be engaged in unauthorised employment and were directed to leave Bermuda.”
