Positive Start for Work Permit Reform

Changes to the Isle of Man work permit system are seeing positive results, with the vast majority of online permits processed within one working day.

In October 2017 Tynwald approved seven proposed reforms to the Island’s work permit system to simplify the process, bring in additional measures and make it easier for employers and employees to access the system.

All of the proposed reforms are now operational, with a new IT system and online form submission launched on 15th January.

Since the changes have been made, approximately 50% of all work permit applications have been submitted online, representing a 10 fold increase in online submissions.

The move online and streamlined application process has also improved efficiency. In January 2017, 31% of applications were processed on the same or following day. With the new system in place, 86% of all fully completed applications submitted by employers are now processed the same or the next working day. The employer-only application form and online submission process has already received positive feedback from local businesses.

Laurence Skelly MHK, Minister for Enterprise, commented:

‘It’s encouraging to see the increased uptake of our new online system and the continuing positive feedback on the improved ease and speed of the work permit process. The Island’s work permit system enables businesses to find skilled workers off-Island if a local candidate is not available. The new, single point application form is very easy to fill out and should help to ease the process of finding talented workers to grow our economically active population in the Isle of Man.

‘We promised we would simplify the work permit process, which we have now achieved and we are now considering the majority of applications within one working day.’

The proposals also introduced automatic 1 year permits for cohabiting partners of Isle of Man workers, work permit holders and exempt persons upon application. This has resulted in 27 co-habiting partner permits being issued since November 2017.

For more information on the reforms or to speak to the work permit team, please click here.

If you're interested in knowing more about moving to the Isle of Man visit Locate.im for more information.