Work Permits Overview
Work Permits are essential for doing business in the Isle of Man. Learn how to acquire a permit and work at your dream job on this beautiful island.
If you are not an Isle of Man Worker, you will need a Work Permit in order to work. Your employer will apply for you. It's very quick, simple and easy for your employer to apply for a work permit, especially as they can now apply online.
Work Permits Defined
A work permit is an official document giving a foreigner permission to take a job in a country.
Here on the Isle of Man, work permits are intended to be used to find skilled workers, grow local businesses and protect employment opportunities.
Who applies for my work permit?
If you are employed, your employer will apply on your behalf. Self-employed individuals will need to apply themselves via the online portal. The fee for a work permit is £60 and can be applied for for up to 5 years.
Work Permit Application
It is now simple and straightforward to apply for a work permit on the Isle of Man. The work permit online portal is simple, quick and digitally processed. When applying for a work permit an application has to be made by your employer or by yourself if you are self-employed. The online portal asks for employment information, personal details, business plan (for self-employment), etc. Find out more on how to apply for a work permit HERE.
Partners of Isle of Man Workers
Partners (Civil, Spouse or co-habiting partner) of an Isle of Man worker are eligible for an automatic 1-year work permit even if they have not yet secured employment. You can apply for this yourself online and must provide your partner’s Work Permit reference, personal details, employment details (if applicable), and proof of relationship to the IOM Worker (marriage/civil partnership certificate or the Cohabiting Partner Additional Information form). The cost for this permit is £60.
To apply now, click HERE.
Work Permit Exemptions
Not everyone has to apply for a work permit, as they may fall into an exemptions category. Some of the conditions below may apply to a work permit exemption:
- Employment in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)
- Employment in E-Business
- Registered medical practitioners
- Registered dentists
- Secondary school teachers
- Registered nurses or midwives
- Registered social workers
- Senior public service appointments
- Chief Officers of an international group
- Holders of an immigration employment document
- Some temporary employments
This is only a small selection of exemptions, so make sure you check out the full list and don't forget you can get in touch with the LOCATE team to find out if you could be exempt from applying for a work permit.
