Consultation on Work Permit reforms opens 

Gov't aims to to make it easier to migrate to the Island to work

Government could remove the need for work permits so that potential workers looking for jobs on the Isle of Man have ‘unconditional confidence’ in migrating. 

The Department for Enterprise has launched a consultation looking at proposed reforms to the work permit system. 

It’s trying to remove any disincentives or barriers to employment to help meet the aims of increasing the population – an aim set out in ‘Our Island Plan’. 

The need for work permits could be temporarily removed across all sectors and all occupations – apart from any specific areas where it’s felt they are still required. 

The department says a single registration process could also be introduced which would provide instant confirmation to the employer and applicant.

Enterprise Minister Tim Johnston said: “There is wide recognition that the Island is facing ongoing critical labour shortages across the economy and industry feedback has indicated that the current work permit provisions are still seen as a barrier to recruitment, despite the fact that the vast majority of all applications are processed within a day, and are therefore placing the Island at a competitive disadvantage given the global challenge on skills.

“Whilst reforms made in 2017 and 2018 improved and streamlined the process, by implementing a single registration process, we are now proposing to further simplify the process for employers during a tight global labour market, alongside aiming to improve the data available to inform appropriate decision making in relation to labour requirements.” 

Businesses and individuals are being encouraged to share their views via a new consultation which you can find HERE. 

The consultation will close on 28 April.