Work permit policy Saba eased for some professions | THE DAILY HERALD

 

 SABA–The policy on work permits has been eased for a number of professions in Saba. The policy, which went into effect November 30, was established in close consultation between the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment SZW and local authorities.

  According to the new procedure, the so-called island test, which requires a search for available local employees for two or five weeks, has been abolished.

  This is applicable to the following categories: teachers, diving instructors, chefs, doctors and positions where the annual salary amounts to more than US $50.000. In these cases there is no need to search for local employees for weeks.

  In these cases, employers may immediately start the application procedure for a temporary work permit. However, the Public Entity Saba must be informed about the vacancy.

  For the time being, this new procedure only applies to Saba, where this proposal was put forward by the local government, Shared Service Organisation Caribbean Netherlands SSO-CN said in a statement on Tuesday.

  The organisation said the “eased arrangement” will be evaluated with the various parties involved. “This will show whether the change is considered an improvement and whether additional adjustments are desirable,” SSO-CN stated.

  Commissioner of General Affairs Bruce Zagers responded cautiously optimistic to the news. “It is a positive development and a good first step to help expedite the granting of work permits, but this is only part of the process,” he said in a reaction.

  According to Zagers, this agreement was the result of a good working relationship with the Ministry of SZW and the Saba Government having proven to be a responsible administration. This has resulted in the granting of more trust.

  The Saba Government ultimately wants to have full authority over the issuing of work permits. “We have been lobbying to completely take over the task of the granting of work permits. We see the elimination of the labour-market test for certain professions as a step in the right direction, but eventually we hope to completely take over the entire responsibility for work permits,” said Zagers.

Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/83313-work-permit-policy-saba-eased-for-some-professions

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