The Ministry of Labour and Social Security on Wednesday convened a stakeholder information session aimed at improving compliance with Jamaica’s work permit regulations and strengthening collaboration between the ministry and organisations that utilise the work permit system. The workshop, organised by the Ministry’s Work Permit Unit, brought together employers, human resource professionals, administrative officers and authorised agents who are directly involved in the preparation and submission of work permit applications.

Held under the theme “Improving the Work Permit Unit through Strategic Stakeholder Alignment,” the session focused on clarifying legal obligations under the Foreign Nationals and Commonwealth Citizens (Employment) Act (FNCCA), 1964, while addressing common challenges that affect the processing of applications.

In commenting on the workshop, Minister of Labour and Social Security, Pearnel Charles Jr, MP, emphasised the importance of compliance and partnership in maintaining a fair and orderly labour market. The minister noted that “the work permit system plays a critical role in supporting economic activity while safeguarding employment opportunities for Jamaicans. Adherence to established procedures and legal requirements is essential to ensuring that the system operates efficiently and with integrity.”

The session also provided participants with practical guidance on the application process and highlighted recurring issues that often delay approvals, including incomplete submissions, expired supporting documents, and the use of unauthorised agents.

Director of the Work Permit Unit, Keisha Mighty-Brown, led a detailed presentation outlining the consequences of failing to comply with the FNCCA, including penalties associated with false declarations, employment without valid permits, and breaches of permit conditions.

Participants were also guided through key provisions of the legislation, including requirements for valid work permits, obligations to produce permits upon request by authorised officers, and offences relating to misrepresentation or obstruction.

The ministry noted that strengthening stakeholder awareness is a critical step toward improving service delivery within the Work Permit Unit, reducing processing delays, and ensuring that all parties operate within the legal framework governing the employment of foreign nationals in Jamaica.

By the end of the workshop, stakeholders were expected to gain a clearer understanding of their responsibilities in the work permit process and the importance of submitting accurate, complete and compliant applications.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security continues to engage stakeholders as part of its broader efforts to promote lawful employment practices and enhance the efficiency of the work permit system.