📈 Cayman Islands sees record high number of work permit holders

The number of work permit holders in the Cayman Islands has reached a record high of 36,972 as of March 11, marking an increase of 1,529 new permit holders since the start of the year. This surge in population, largely due to an influx of expatriate workers, wealthy foreign property owners, retirees, and individuals under the Global Citizen Concierge Programme, is putting significant pressure on local infrastructure, including rental accommodation, road traffic, supermarkets, and hospitals. 📈

According to local attorneys HSM, there are currently 6,086 permanent residents in the Cayman Islands, with Jamaicans, British Overseas Territory citizens, British citizens, Canadians, and Americans making up the largest groups. The growing population has led to an increase in applications for permanent residency and Caymanian status. However, the processing of these applications in 2023 was slow due to infrequent board meetings and expired terms of appointment. The UPM government's appointment of new line-ups to the immigration boards at the end of 2023 appears to have expedited the process. 🌍

Despite a significant increase in the determination of status applications based on marriage or naturalisation, new applications continue to add to a large backlog, potentially leading to long waiting periods for decision outcomes. HSM warns that no application should wait more than six months to be determined due to potential adverse consequences for applicants. The Cayman Islands Government has yet to make changes to the legislation or regulations despite significant issues with the immigration system. 🏛️