Bermuda's island charm, financial stability, and strategic location in the Atlantic make it an appealing destination for global companies. But before hiring international talent to work on the island, employers need to navigate Bermuda’s structured—but often nuanced—work visa process. Understanding the ins and outs of work authorization in Bermuda is essential for building a compliant, competitive workforce.
For companies exploring expansion or employment in Bermuda, this article pairs well with Velocity Global’s guide to hiring internationally and the detailed country explorer tool for deeper regional insights.
Understanding work visas and authorization in Bermuda
Overview of Bermuda's work visa process
Bermuda requires all non-Bermudians to secure a valid work permit before beginning employment. These permits are issued by the Bermuda Department of Immigration and serve as the legal foundation for foreign nationals to live and work on the island. Unlike some jurisdictions, Bermuda does not operate a point-based immigration system. Instead, the process is employer-driven—meaning companies must sponsor their foreign hires and secure the appropriate documentation on their behalf.
There are several types of work permits, including short-term (up to six months), standard (up to three years), and periodic work permits for seasonal work. Employers must select the right permit based on the nature and duration of employment.
Importance of work authorization for employers
Failing to comply with Bermuda’s work authorization requirements carries significant consequences. Employers may face fines, reputational damage, or future hiring restrictions if found to be employing individuals without valid permits. Beyond compliance, securing legal authorization helps ensure smoother onboarding, greater workforce stability, and alignment with Bermuda’s efforts to prioritize local employment opportunities.
Steps to obtain a work visa in Bermuda
Eligibility criteria for employers
To apply for a work permit, employers must demonstrate that the role could not be filled by a qualified Bermudian, spouse of a Bermudian, or permanent resident. This requirement reinforces the Department of Immigration’s commitment to protecting local labor markets.
Employers must also:
- Be a registered business in good standing
- Maintain an active Bermuda payroll tax account
- Advertise the position locally for a minimum of three consecutive days, unless exempted
Required documentation for visa application
The application process requires detailed documentation, including:
- A completed work permit application form
- A copy of the employment contract
- Proof of local job advertising
- Passport-sized photos of the applicant
- A valid police certificate
- A full resume and professional references
- Justification for hiring a non-local candidate
Application procedure and timeline
Applications are submitted to the Department of Immigration either online or via physical submission. Standard processing times can range from two to six weeks, depending on the type of permit and completeness of the application. Employers are advised to build in extra time to account for potential delays or follow-up document requests.
Costs involved in securing a Bermuda work permit
Breakdown of visa fees
Fees vary based on the type and duration of the permit:
- Short-term permits (1–6 months). $705 for up to three months, increasing incrementally per additional month
- Standard work permits (1–5 years). $1,015 for one year, increasing incrementally for multi-year terms
- Periodic or temporary permits. Fees depend on industry and frequency of use
Complete fee schedules are available for short-term work permits and standard work permits on the Bermuda Government’s official website.
Associated costs for employers
Beyond permit fees, employers should account for:
- Recruitment and relocation costs
- Medical insurance coverage
- Housing stipends (in some cases)
- Legal or administrative support fees
Budgeting accurately for these expenses can prevent disruptions and ensure smoother transitions for international employees.
Challenges and considerations for employers
Common obstacles in securing visas
Employers frequently face hurdles such as:
- Incomplete documentation
- Delays due to background checks
- Failure to meet advertising requirements
- Difficulty proving the unavailability of local candidates
Tips and resources for a successful application
A successful work visa application begins with preparation:
- Organize all necessary documents ahead of submission
- Ensure every form is filled out accurately and completely
- Maintain ongoing communication with the Department of Immigration
- Review government updates regularly to stay informed of changes
Utilizing support from EOR providers
An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third-party service provider that manages international hiring, onboarding, compliance, payroll, and benefits on behalf of a company. With an EOR, businesses can hire talent in Bermuda without establishing a legal entity. The EOR handles all work authorization paperwork and ensures adherence to local laws.
For companies unfamiliar with Bermuda’s requirements—or lacking internal HR capacity—partnering with an EOR streamlines the process and minimizes risk.
Living and working in Bermuda: Important insights
Legal requirements for foreign employees
Once in Bermuda, foreign workers must carry their work permit and passport at all times. They are not permitted to work outside the scope of their permit, and switching employers requires a new application process. Work permits also do not lead directly to permanent residency, which is tightly controlled.
Benefits and drawbacks of hiring in Bermuda
Bermuda offers a business-friendly environment with no corporate income tax, proximity to North America, and a highly skilled local talent pool. However, the cost of living is high, and housing availability can be limited, creating challenges for relocation.
Recent data from Numbeo shows Hamilton, Bermuda, as one of the most expensive cities globally. Employers must weigh these factors when offering international assignments.
FAQs: Work visas and authorization in Bermuda
How to qualify for a work visa?
Applicants must be sponsored by an employer, meet job qualifications, and have a clean criminal record. The employer must also prove that no suitable local candidates were available.
Can an employer request a work visa?
Yes. In Bermuda, the employer initiates all work permits, not the individual worker.
How long does it take to get a work permit in Bermuda?
Standard processing times range from two to six weeks, but delays can occur based on documentation or review requirements.
How much does a work permit cost in Bermuda?
Fees start around $700 for short-term permits and go up to $1,015+ for standard permits, depending on duration and type.
How Velocity Global can help
Navigating Bermuda’s work visa requirements can be complex, especially for businesses scaling globally. Velocity Global helps employers simplify and streamline the process by handling compliance, documentation, and onboarding logistics through its Employer of Record solution.
With global expertise and local insight, Velocity Global ensures companies stay compliant while focusing on growth. Whether expanding into Bermuda or hiring remotely across borders, Velocity Global empowers employers to scale faster, without unnecessary risk.
To learn more, visit Velocity Global’s resources on global hiring and country-specific hiring guides or reach out for additional information.
This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or tax advice and is for general informational purposes only. The intent of this document is solely to provide general and preliminary information for private use. Do not rely on it as an alternative to legal, financial, taxation, or accountancy advice from an appropriately qualified professional. The content in this guide is provided “as is,” and no representations are made that the content is error-free. © 2025 Velocity Global, LLC. All rights reserved.
Topic:
Immigration + Relocation
