Late applications and appeals to continue working may be refused, says Minister
Government is going to have zero tolerance for late work permit applications from now on – this today from Jason Hayward, Minister of Labour and Economy.
Flanked by Department of Immigration staff, Minister Hayward said they have seen an increasing number of late applications for work permits, specifically for individuals already residing in Bermuda. (scroll to bottom for full press conference, or watch the clips below)
Minister Hayward was accompanied at today’s press conference by the Department of Immigration’s Kelly Perinchief-Burgess – Compliance Manager, Nekia Scraders – Acting Immigration Manager, and Marita Grimes – Assistant Chief Immigration Officer.
The Minister reiterated the laws around work permit applications, and said violators will incur fines:
If a work permit application has been submitted on time, the applicant can appeal to the Minister to keep working if the current permit expires while waiting for a new permit.
Minister Hayward, however, told media that late work permit applications are becoming too common – although he did not give actual statistics:
Minister Hayward urged the public to report immigration violations by calling the anonymous tip line on 296-5202.
FULL PRESS CONFERENCE:
