Expert: Robert Clark - 3/7/2004

Question
I am considering the possibility of immigrating to the island, with quite a sound employment opportunity, however I have heard that a work permit is required for all people wishing to work on the island.  My girlfriend would also like to come and has a degree in commerce as well as 18 months experience as a financial advisor. She also holds a British passport.  I know that jobs are first offered to Cayman residents, but in your opinion what are her prospects of finding employment in a related banking or financial services field?  

Answer
Sam
As you are probably aware, the Cayman Islands are one of the top financial centres in the world, so there are certainly jobs out there; the problem may well be that she will be up against stiff competition!

The other issue is that generally when applying for work permits, you have to declare any dependents; with their slightly puritanical stance, you may not be able to get your girl friend on as a dependent. If you were married, then as long as you could proove that you could support her without her having to work, then she could be a dependent on you permit.  Given that, it may be that she has to apply for jobs/work permits in her own name.

Have you checked the resources in my FAQ?  I'd suggest joining jobinthesun. They have a good record on helping people find a job and also their members who post to their forums are very supportive.

Good luck!

Robert
http://www.gotocayman.com