Here’s a concise overview of Bermuda’s work permit rules affecting an expat’s ability to change jobs on the Island—based on the latest published policy.

Work permit basics 

  • Non-Bermudians generally must hold a valid work permit to be employed in Bermuda. These are sponsored and applied for by the employer, not the employee
  • Work permits are job- and employer-specific. You cannot use the same permit to start a new job with a different company—a new permit must be granted for each employment contract

The two-year rule

One of the most important constraints for expat workers is the minimum duration before being allowed to change employer.

Standard Policy:

  • Expat work permit holders are generally required to remain with their initial employer when they arrive in Bermuda for at least 2 years before they are permitted to seek alternative employment without special approval
  • An exception to this is for accountants, where it’s 18 months in your first job

Exceptions & Ministerial Waiver:

  • There are limited situations where the two-year restriction can be waived:
    • If the employee is made redundant
    • If the employee has lodged a bona fide complaint against their employer with the Department of Labour regarding unfair treatment
    • In the above cases, the permit holder can apply in writing to the Minister responsible for Immigration to waive the two-year requirement
  • If a waiver is not granted, the work permit holder must either remain with the original employer for the full two-year period or settle their affairs and depart Bermuda

Newer policy clarifications 

The updated 2025 policy maintains similar job-change restrictions but clarifies timing around permit changes:

  • Job changes are not allowed within the first year of a new permit being issued, or within 6 months after the renewal of a work permit
  • The broader two-year requirement on changing employers still applies in most cases, with specific narrower windows when job moves are simply internal role changes or promotions

Practical implications for expat workers

Before Two Years:

  • You cannot ordinarily apply for a new work permit with another employer during the first two years with your sponsor who first brings you to the Island
  • Actively seeking alternative employment before two years is restricted, unless you have exceptional circumstances and Ministerial consent

After Two Years:

  • Once you have completed the two-year period with your employer, you have the option to change jobs if you wish
  • Your prospective new employer must then apply to the Department of Immigration for a new work permit on your behalf

Key takeaways

  • Bermuda’s work permit regime is designed to protect local hiring and employer investment by encouraging stability in foreign hires
  • Expat workers must plan carefully before pursuing a job change, and should consult with their employer and Immigration authorities well before the two-year mark if seeking an exception

Related links:
https://www.gov.bm/sites/default/files/2025-09/Work-Permit-Policy.pdf
https://www.gov.bm/department/immigration

⚠️ Hamilton Recruitment does not hold itself out to be a formal adviser for issues to do with Immigration and work permit regulations. It is important that job-seekers take independent, professional advice before making a potential move and/or contact the Department of Immigration directly to ascertain their status if needed. A link to Bermuda’s Work Permit Policy, effective date 1st November 2025, is provided above.

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