Treasury says it's down to increased processing times
Treasury's apologised after admitting there have been 'challenges' navigating the Island's immigration system.
Some people have been told it's taking up to 90 days to process applications.
It's said to have been largely down to increased processing times, which Treasury admits has caused a level of uncertainty and frustration for employers and employees alike.
Joe has been waiting for his Visa to live and work on the Island since February:
In a statement, an Isle of Man Government spokesperson says:
"We acknowledge that in recent months there have been a number of reports of individuals and businesses who are experiencing challenges when navigating the Island’s immigration process.
"This is largely down to increased processing times, which have caused a level of uncertainty and frustration among employers and employees alike.
"We understand these concerns and want to provide assurance that resolving these challenges quickly and effectively is a matter of priority.
"An action plan is in place to respond to immediate concerns and develop a path to permanently address specific issues. We would like to apologise for any inconvenience this situation has caused.
"The focus now is on stabilising the current immigration process and delivering material improvements for both employers and visa applicants in the coming weeks."
Currently, the government is working to increase the Island's population to 100,000 by 2037 as part of the chief minister's Island Plan.
As the issuer of work permits, the Department for Enterprise has issued a statement about how it's been impacted by the delay.
A spokesperson says:
"Whilst the Department has received industry feedback that a number of roles have been impacted by extended processing times, it is important to stress that there are various factors which impact on employee relocations.
"Officers from the Department will continue to work closely with industry partners to support ongoing plans for expansion in the Island.
"In respect of Work Permits, the Department remains committed to reviewing and proposing reforms to the Work Permit System, as signalled in the Island Plan, to seek to simplify and improve the process further for both employers and candidates.
"The Department is liaising further with stakeholders to consider a number of options for improvements whilst maintaining appropriate controls.
"Whilst further reforms are being considered, it is important to reiterate that at present the overwhelming majority of work permit applications are approved, and are done so quickly."
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