Immigration (Transition) (Amendment & Validation) Bill, 2025 ("the Immigration Bill")

Overview

The Ministry of Caymanian Employment & Immigration (Ministry) invites comments on the Immigration (Transition) (Amendment & Validation) Bill, 2025 (Immigration Bill).

This consultation seeks the views of stakeholders and the public on the proposed amendments to the Immigration (Transition) Act (2022 Revision). The purpose of this consultation is to provide transparency, encourage engagement, and ensure that the perspectives of Caymanians, residents, industry representatives, and other interested parties are considered before the Bill is finalised.

Feedback can be sent via email to ImmigrationConsultation@gov.ky

The proposed amendments to the Immigration (Transition) Act (2022 Revision) are intended to update and refine aspects of the existing legislative framework to ensure it remains responsive to evolving social and economic circumstances.

The proposed amendments to the Bill are as follows:
•    Name change to the principal Act
•    Confirmation of Caymanian Status
•    Loss and Revocation of Caymanian Status
•    Discretion for RERC Continuation
•    Extended RERC Holding Period Before Naturalisation
•    Continuation of RERC for Parents of Caymanian Children
•    Expanded Grounds for Revocation of PR and RERC
•    Financial Standing Requirements
•    Work Permit Changes
•    Annual Declarations for Key Facilities
•    Information Sharing and Collaboration
•    Exemptions under Section 53(1)(b)
•    Public Sector Term Limits
•    Commercial Farmhand Certificates
•    Fees and Fines 

It should be noted, however, that the Immigration Bill does not propose any changes to the permanent residency framework. Such changes will be addressed in the next round of legislative amendments.

Review the Easy Reference Guide below to review the proposed changes in the Immigration Bill.


Why it Matters
The consultation invites feedback on the objectives and provisions outlined in the Bill, including matters relating to Caymanian status, permanent residency, residency and employment rights certificates, work permit requirements, financial standing, and compliance measures. Comments may address the policy intent, practical implications, or any other relevant considerations.

How Your Information Will Be Used
Responses to this consultation may help inform the Government’s final decisions on the amendments and ensure that the Immigration framework continues to balance the interests of Caymanians with the social and economic needs of the Islands.

Please note that any responses may be made public, albeit on an anonymous basis where possible.  Responses may also be shared with other public bodies involved in this consultation to assist the Ministry in developing the relevant policies.  The Ministry also encourages stakeholders to provide as much supporting examples as possible with their responses.