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  by pltm
• Feb 16, 2018
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(PLTM) - The government has implemented a temporary fix to the debacle at the Immigration Department, to ease the traffic.

In response to growing concerns, including from volunteers, Premier and Finance Minister, Hon. Dr. D. Orlando Smith announced that government has decided that as of Monday, February 19, any company can have their work permits processed for the employees by having all the documents for the employees sent from the company directly to the Immigration Department.

"This would also apply for the owners or managers of companies. We are now testing an online application process for entry permits and we expect this to be up and running within the next few weeks," he said in a statement issued late on Friday, February 16.

He added, "Again, this will add to the efficiency of the application process at the Immigration Department."

Premier Smith said that government recognises the inconvenience caused to individuals and businesses when persons have to wait for extended periods of time at the Immigration Department to renew entry permits or extensions.

"And while this is happening, at the same time, the Immigration Department must process increasing numbers of new entry permits because of the influx of persons who are coming to assist with recovery and restoration projects," he stated.

Speaking about volunteers who are in the BVI to assist with rebuilding, Premier Smith said that government also welcomes volunteer groups who are coming to assist with the rebuilding and restoration process.

"We ask that the organisation or person responsible for volunteer groups or the volunteer to apply to the Immigration Department."

He explained that persons must write to the Chief Immigration Officer, indicating the name of the parent organisation; when persons are expected to arrive in the Territory; and the length of the stay. This request will then be facilitated by the Immigration Department.

"I do trust that these changes will improve the immigration experience," Premier Smith said.

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