Work permit moratorium for job categories extended
Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, has expanded the moratorium on new work permits for a variety of job categories for another three months.
The list of closed and restricted job categories has not been changed, with the moratorium now scheduled to end on February 28, 2026.
A ministry spokesman said: “The Ministry of Economy and Labour remains focused on ensuring that our policies create meaningful job opportunities for Bermudians.
“The Closed and Restricted Job Categories are designed to encourage employers to prioritise Bermudian talent and invest in their development.
“As Bermuda’s employment landscape evolves, the ministry will continue to adjust these policies to reflect changing workforce needs and ensure that Bermudians remain at the centre of our economic progress.
“Individuals looking to increase their skill sets and employability are always encouraged to register with the Department of Workforce Development at dwd.bm and explore more options for further education through Bermuda College at www.college.bm.”
List of closed job categories to February 28, 2026:
Administrative assistant; airline ground agent; bank teller; carpet installer; cashier; childcare assistant; courier; customer care/service representative; debt collector; deckhand; dispatcher road transport
Entertainer/musician; executive secretary/assistant; fisherman; general bartender; general labourer; golf instructors; grocery packer; guest service agent; handyman; HR officer/manager; intern
Laundry attendant; legal clerk; librarian; office receptionist; painter; paraprofessional; photographer; pool/beach attendant; public relations officer; real estate agent; retail floor supervisor; room attendant
Salesperson; seasonal work permits; security guard; senior clerk; taxi driver; teaching aide; technician salesperson; telephone switchboard operator; tourist retail salesperson; wallpaper technician; warehouse clerk
List of restricted job categories to February 28, 2026:
Dish/pot washer; electrician; general carpenter; kitchen assistant; kitchen porter; landscape gardener (entry-level); plumber; residential/commercial cleaner; tennis instructor; waiter/server
Under the Work Permit Policy, the application process for jobs in the restricted category is the same as that for the open category except the employer must apply for a maximum term of one year and submit evidence that candidates screened and recommended by the Department of Workforce Development have been appropriately considered.
The department is expected to respond to enquiries by employers within ten working days. Should no response be forthcoming from DWD, the employer may submit the application with written evidence that they made enquiries.
Partners of Bermudians, Permanent Resident’s Certificate holders, non-Bermudians on a work permit or other legal residents who have already received permission to reside may apply to seek employment.
Partners who do not have permission to reside may apply to reside and seek employment. The policy relating to partners was updated in September 2025.
Further details on Partner Residence Application Guidelines are available online at gov.bm.
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