The public is hereby reminded regarding the notice issued by the Ministry of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade on April 11, 2024, concerning applications for work permit exemptions under the category of Minister's Discretion (New). As seen in the link provided - Work Permit Exemptions By Minister’s Discretion Temporarily Suspended | Government of the Virgin Islands

 Please be advised of the following key points:

1. Temporary Suspension:
   Effective immediately from the notice date, the acceptance of new applications for work permit exemptions under Minister’s Discretion has been temporarily suspended. 
2. Renewal Applications:
   The Ministry will continue to accept renewal applications for work permit exemptions by Minister’s Discretion.
3. Development of Guidelines:
   The Ministry is actively developing guidelines to establish clear criteria for eligibility under the Minister's Discretion category. This will ensure a fair and transparent process for all applicants. 
4. Other Categories:
   Applications for work permit exemptions can still be submitted under the following categories:
   • By Marriage: For persons married to a BVIslander or Belonger and living with their spouse in the Territory.
   • By Education: For persons who have attended significant schooling in the Territory.

Important Note:
Any new applications submitted before or after the date of this notice for work permit exemptions under the Minister’s Discretion (New) category are considered on hold as per the published notice. Applicants are reminded to ensure proper compliance with the Department of Immigration concerning their status in the Territory.

We appreciate your patience as we continue to review and refine this process to better serve the needs of the public. Should you require further information, please feel free to contact the Ministry at 468-2112.