Work-permit delays, belonger employment and expatriate children’s immigration status were among the topics discussed at a recent meeting between government leaders and representatives from the financial services industry.
Following the Jan. 27 roundtable, which focused on labour and immigration matters, officials described such dialogue as the way forward in tackling challenges faced by the sector’s businesses, according to a subsequent press release from BVI Finance.
“I want us to treat this as a real and ongoing, consistent dialogue with government agencies,” said Financial Services and Economic Development Junior Minister Lorna Smith. “Dialogues like this strengthen us as a country and help move us to the next level.”
Also in attendance at the meeting — to which the media was not invited — were acting Labour Commissioner Mervin Hastings, acting Chief Immigration Officer Nadia Demming-Hodge and BVI Finance CEO Elise Donovan.
Expats’ kids
One issue addressed was the immigration status of the children of longtime work-permit holders— which has long been a source of concern among expatriates working here.
Participants discussed “the social and economic implications” of the matter “for families, businesses and the territory, as well as the importance of policy coherence in supporting long-term retention,” BVI Finance stated.
Work permits
During a discussion on work-permit timelines, Ms. Demming-Hodge explained that employment rules are complex
“Once an application reaches Immigration, it’s often assumed to be a purely administrative step, but that’s far from the case,” she said.
“This is where comprehensive background checks are conducted — both locally and, when required, with external agencies worldwide.”
Given such complications, she acknowledged, delays occur at times.
“While we aim to complete this process within seven business days, timelines can depend on responses from our international partners,” she said. “Our team remains committed to doing everything possible to meet these timelines while ensuring the integrity of the process.”
Discussions also focused on internal promotions and work place progression, as well as the availability of specialised skills within the financial services industry.
Mr. Hastings explained that his job involves striking a balance.
“I am fully committed to supporting the industry and helping it meet its goals, and I understand that there are times when companies need people who can step in and hit the ground running,” he said. “At the same time, as labour commissioner, my mandate is to ensure that Virgin Islanders have access to employment opportunities, especially those who already have experience but may need the chance to gain additional training.”
Key dialogue
Ms. Donovan stressed that such dialogue is vital to enhancing the territory’s role as a major financial hub.
“Our global expertise is what makes us competitive as a jurisdiction, and at the same time it is critical that we continue to equip Virgin Islanders to take on roles within the industry,” she said.
“This is especially important given that financial services contribute between 60 and 70 percent of government revenues, underscoring the sector’s vital role in supporting the territory.”