The Immigration Department is reminding the public that there are requirements to remain in the Territory while changing jobs or status.

Acting Chief Immigration Officer, Mrs. Geraldine Ritter-Freeman said, “Persons who have been working in the Territory for five years or more and are changing employers; and persons who have resided in the Territory for three years or more and are seeking to change their status to seek employment, will no longer be required to leave the Territory during the transitioning process and can apply for a conditional permit.”

Mrs. Ritter-Freeman added that such persons must satisfy the interviewing officer that their place of residence is in suitable living condition and that they are financially capable of supporting themselves during the transitional period.

Persons who are granted conditional permits will have three months to secure employment. Permits cost $250. Persons who experience challenges securing employment should report to the Immigration Department 10 days prior to the expiration of the permit to have their matter reviewed.  Persons who are unable to secure employment during the requisite time frame are required to exit the Territory and return on an approved labour clearance where applicable.

All other persons seeking to change jobs or whose status do not meet the requirements are required to notify the Immigration Department immediately as those persons will be required to exit the Territory and return, if applicable, on an approved labour clearance. 

Following the passage of the recent hurricanes, provision is being made for skilled workers or other workers deemed critical for the rebuilding and recovery efforts to remain during the transitional phase.

Exceptional circumstances will be reviewed by the Chief Immigration Officer on a case by case basis.  This policy seeks to ensure that Virgin Islanders, Belongers, Permanent Residents and persons that usually reside in the Territory are given due consideration and preference for available jobs, especially during these trying times.  

Failure to comply can affect the outcome of future applications to the Department.

For more information contact the Immigration Department at (284) 468-4700 or 468-4705.