Residents have until Friday to give feedback on proposed changes to work permit regulations.

The amended rules, which aim to set processing times for standard applications to six weeks, are due to come into effect on September 1.

Today Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, said: "We are committed to ensuring that our immigration policies reflect the needs of Bermuda's evolving workforce and economy.

“Public consultation is key to helping us strike the right balance between supporting local talent and meeting industry demands.

“I encourage all residents, stakeholders and business leaders to take a few moments to review the proposed changes and share their views."

The Opposition has argued that the public should have been consulted before the new regulations were drafted.

The policy document is available for feedback at forum.gov.bm.