Employers, agents, and human resources managers will now be able to collect renewed work permits on behalf of their employees to optimise productivity by freeing up valuable time and resources for other critical business activities, says Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour and Trade Lorna Smith, OBE.

A June 26 government press release said the “initiative is part of the ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Financial Services, Labour and Trade to streamline the work permit process, with the aim of making it more convenient for employers and their valuable workforce.”

The Deputy Premier also encouraged all eligible businesses to take advantage of this initiative.

“Allowing employers, agents, and HR Managers to collect renewal work permits on behalf of their employees will enable organisations to optimise productivity by freeing up valuable time and resources for other critical business activities,” Honourable Smith said, adding, “By allowing authorised representatives to collect renewal work permits, the Ministry expects a more efficient and convenient experience for all stakeholders, contributing to the overall growth and prosperity of the Territory,” she explained.

According to the statement, the move will “enhance the efficiency of the work permit process and improve the ease of doing business in the Territory.”

The initiative was first made public during a consultation meeting held on June 21 with business leaders representing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

To qualify, the following criteria must be met:

• Authorised Representation: Employers, agents, and HRMs must obtain written authorisation from the respective employee to collect their work permit. Written documentation must also be received from the employer, identifying the HRM or agent as the authorised representative of the business.

• Valid Identification: Employers, agents, and HRMs must provide valid identification, such as government-issued identification cards or company-issued identification badges, when collecting work permits. This requirement ensures a secure and reliable collection process.

• Employee Presence in the Territory: The employee must be physically present in the BVI during the work permit renewal collection process.

• Valid Immigration Stamp: The employee must possess a valid immigration stamp in their passport, which must be presented during the collection of the work permit.

• Recent Passport-Size Photo: A recent passport-sized photograph, taken within the last six (6) months, must be provided. This photo will be uploaded onto the employee’s work permit card.

• Compliance with Legal Requirements: Employers and employees must comply with all applicable labour laws and policies regarding work permits, including adhering to immigration laws and related legislation.

The statement added that the “Department of Labour and Workforce Development remains dedicated to offering solutions that foster a favourable business environment while prioritising the well-being and interests of both employees and employers.”