Expert: Drew Wilmoth - 8/26/2009

Question
Hi ,

My name is Nina, I am french and I am going to work in November in a restaurant on the Cayman island. I had to apply for the temporary work permit. I’m sure that it wouldn’t be a problem to pass the medical examination and to give a clean police record.
My boyfriend and I want to stay in the island more than 6 month because we want to spend a part of our live in here. if our employer or another one want to renew our work contract is it possible to renew the temporary work permit?

I look forward to reading from you.

Best regards,

Nina

Answer
There are two different types of temporary work permits. One type can be granted for up to six months and may be extended into a longer work permit of one or more additional years. The other type of temporary permit is a new seasonal work permit. The seasonal permit is for eight months and cannot be extended.

Some businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors need additional employees only during the busier winter months. The seasonal permit allows the employee to arrive prior to the beginning of high season and complete training before peak season begins.

If your employer told you that the application is only for six months, then it is a non-seasonal permit and can be extended with the same employer. About two months before the end of that temporary permit you and the employer will need to submit a new application for a full work permit. You may continue working after the end of your temporary work permit if you have not received a decision on the application for your full work permit.

If you submit an application for a full work permit with the same employer after your temporary permit has expired, you may be required to leave the island while a decision is being made.

If you apply for a work permit with a new employer you may be required to leave the island while a decision is being made if the decision is not made before the end of your temporary permit with your first employer.

As you are French, you will be required to take a brief English language test at the airport when you arrive to begin your job. Plan your travel so you can arrive feeling rested. You may be required to repeat this test if you apply for a full work permit.