A few weeks ago, I announced the various tests and total minimum scores for the Requirement for Proficiency in English Language, Policy 1.8. In that statement, I also announced that additional changes to the 2025 Work Permit Policy would be published by May 1, 2026.

Updating the Work Permit Policy is our commitment to ensure that Immigration policies are aligned with current times by meeting the needs of employers while ensuring a fair approach for recruitment and residency in all job categories in Bermuda. The updates also demonstrate that we have taken to heart the feedback we receive on an ongoing basis.

I am pleased to share the following updates:

Policy 1.2 Appealing a Decision – clarity has been provided for the requirement to re-pay application fees in cases where an appeal is upheld.

Policy 1.4 Penalties and Compliance – this section has been strengthened to provide greater transparency on the types of penalties that can be levied for breaches against the Bermuda Immigration and Protection Act 1956 and Immigration policies.

Policy 1.8 Requirement for Proficiency in English Language – this now applies to Short Term, Standard, Global, Intra-Company Transfer, New Business, Fintech, and Family Office work permit holders.

Policy 1.10 Seeking Employment – following the completion of 2 years’ employment with an initial employer, for new work permits, job changes will not be considered within the first 6 months after the permit is issued, and for renewal work permits, job changes will not be considered within the first 3 months after issuance. Previously, work permit holders had to wait 1 year and 6 months, respectively, before they could change jobs. Absolute adherence to the restricted periods for seeking employment must be followed.

Policy 1.19 Guidelines for Submitting Photos – the requirement to submit passport-size photos for dependents has been removed; this is particularly applicable where an entry/re-entry document is requested.

Policy 3.13 Notice of Termination – if a work permit holder is terminated because of unsatisfactory performance, such as misconduct or gross misconduct, the employer must submit written notification to the Department of Immigration.

Policy 4.2 Promotions – employers may only promote a work permit holder on a renewed work permit, provided the policy guidelines are followed, i.e. obtaining prior written permission from the Department of Immigration, internal advertising, etc.

Appendix V Restricted and Closed Categories of Work – instead of updating the Restricted and Closed job categories every 3 months, the listings are effective from March 1, 2026 to February 28, 2027.

Again, I remind employers of their responsibility to ensure work permit holders whom they want to hire are proficient in English and utilize the following testing centres:

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System) – Total Minimum Test Score: 4
2. TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language) – Total Minimum Test Score: 42
3. DET (Duolingo English Test) – Total Minimum Test Score: 75
4. TOEIC (L&R) (Test of English for International Communication) – Total Minimum Test Score: 550
5. PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English) – Total Minimum Test Score: 43

Employers are reminded that they can submit appeals if the ‘speaking’ score exceeds the total minimum score.

Without a doubt, the Work Permit Policy document will continue to evolve with the next wave of amendments expected to occur in October 2026.

For questions or general information, visit www2.gov.bm/department/immigration or call 246-8093.

Thank you.