With effect from 1st October 2015, changes to the work permit system have come into effect. The changes include work permits being issued for a period of five years, rather than the old system of one year permits with an annual renewal. This should reduce the administrative burden on both employers and the government. The changes also increase flexibility for the Department of Economic Development to grant or remove exemptions from the need for a work permit. Finally, changes have been made to allow spouses and civil partners easier access to employment.
The work permit application system is also expected to move online with effect from December 2015.
