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Gov't abruptly scraps Indefinite Work Permit Exemptions

Late last evening, Tuesday, November 11, 2025, the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development, and Digital Transformation informed the public via a press bulletin that Indefinite Work Permit Exemptions are no longer valid. Photo: VINO/File
The Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development, and Digital Transformation has reminded that approval of a work permit exemption is a privilege and it does not represent a status. Photo: a1consultancy.ca
The Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development, and Digital Transformation has reminded that approval of a work permit exemption is a privilege and it does not represent a status. Photo: a1consultancy.ca
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI - Late last evening, Tuesday, November 11, 2025, the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development, and Digital Transformation informed the public via a press bulletin that Indefinite Work Permit Exemptions are no longer valid.

According to the Ministry, persons in possession of indefinite work permit exemptions, under the categories of Marriage or Minister’s Discretion, need to submit a renewal application.

It also said persons who obtained an exemption under the category of Education, however, will be required to apply for a work permit.

Apply for Residence status

"In all instances, once persons have lived in the Territory for ten years or more, they are encouraged to apply for Residence status," the bulletin informed.

The Ministry also reminded that approval of a work permit exemption is a privilege and it does not represent a status.

"The Ministry appreciates your understanding and cooperation in this regard."

4 Responses to “Gov't abruptly scraps Indefinite Work Permit Exemptions”

  • Really? (12/11/2025, 08:52) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    Hasn’t this been approved since last year? Now the big announcement.
  • A work permit for a school child? (12/11/2025, 09:54) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Wouldn't it be better to issue them something like a student visa? Makes more sense to me.
  • grace (12/11/2025, 09:56) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Oh come on. There are so many unregistered illegals here without any work permits. There are so many flooding Long Look and Josiahs Bay, it is an insult, yet the police know all about.them and do nothing to round them up. I'm so sick of it!
  • Good thing! (12/11/2025, 10:01) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    This will keep all those ungrateful employees in check.


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