Cayman Islands launches public consultation on sweeping immigration law reforms

The government of the Cayman Islands has released a bill detailing planned amendments to the country’s immigration laws, opening a public consultation period that runs until November 14.

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Accompanying the release, the government described the bill as a “decisive crucial point in national policy with the launch of sweeping immigration reforms designed to realign the system with the priorities of Caymanians, while preserving our competitiveness and social cohesion.”

Key proposals include extending the timeframe for a person married to, or in a civil partnership with, a Caymanian or permanent resident to hold a Residency and Employment Rights Certificate (RERC) from 10 to 15 years before applying for naturalisation or permanent residency. Similarly, the period a person must reside in the Cayman Islands before applying for the right to be Caymanian would increase from 15 to 20 years, and from five to 10 years after naturalisation.

The amendments also introduce term limits for civil servants, first announced by the government in May, and new rules for work-permit holders. Under the proposals, permit holders would not be allowed to change employers within the first two years of their permit, and must leave Cayman for at least a year before applying for a new permit.

Other significant provisions include annual declarations for holders of Caymanian status and RERCs, with failure to comply resulting in potential revocation. Certificates of Specialist Caregivers and Commercial Farmhands would have an age limit, ceasing to be valid once holders turn 65. Surviving spouses or civil partners with dependents must meet specific financial criteria if married for fewer than seven years to qualify for permanent residency. Additionally, Caymanian status obtained by entitlement may be revoked if a holder resides abroad for five years or more after turning 18 without notifying the Workforce Opportunities and Residency Cayman (WORC) office.

Minister for Caymanian Employment and Immigration Michael Myles said, “Public consultation of a bill is a cornerstone of good governance. This process ensures that every voice is heard and that the Immigration Bill reflects the realities, needs, and aspirations of the people it will serve. By engaging with the public, we can craft a fair, transparent, and effective immigration system that upholds our national values and supports both our citizens and those who wish to contribute to our society.”

Members of the public are invited to submit feedback on the proposed amendments by November 14.