Expert: Robert Clark - 12/12/2006

Question
Robert,
It is a strange situation, because I am not officially on his permit as a dependent yet. I have heard (from a Caymanian neighbor) that this portion of the law is being revised, but I just can't seem to find out what is going on right now! Thank you for your help.
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
Hello! I am currently residing on the island as a "visitor" while my husband's permanent work permit goes through and I am added on as a dependent. I have just received a job offer with one of the private schools and I have been told recently that I would need to leave the island while they process MY work permit. Do you know if this is the case? Thank you!
-----Answer-----
Jennifer
Generally, yes that is the rule that whilst your work permit is being processed you have to be off the island. The thinking is that if your permit is refused, then the authorities wouldn't have the hassle of trying to give notice to you to leave/chase you up, etc.

It may be worth checking with the immigration authorities on your position. I believe that if you were listed as a dependendent it may not be necessary to leave as you already have permission to be on the island, but as you currently on his permit it does leave you on a tricky situation.

Good luck!
Robert

Answer
I've checked with one of my contacts on the island. Their response was:
"Yes she will need to leave unless the one year is through.  If the husbands  permit was through she could reside until  hers is approved however if she is just a visitor she will have to leave and also make sure her passport is regularized."
Hope this helps

Robert


Correct - the whole area of immigration law/work permits is currently under review. The draft law was published earlier in the year - see the first news item on my news page for September 2006 at http://www.gotocayman.com

You are probably aware that the issue of work permit rollovers is causing quite a lot of concern from both expats and Caymanians, and whatever is decided, there will be people unhappy with the result.

Robert