Bermuda residence in 2026 — work, family & long-term permits

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory with a highly regulated immigration framework. Residence routes include short-term work permits, family reunification, student entry, and pathways to a Permanent Resident’s Certificate (PRC). Residence is only the beginning — explore your route to citizenship and avoid timing mistakes in our companion article on Bermuda citizenship.

Key terms

Work permit: authorisation to work and live in Bermuda for a fixed period, usually 1–5 years.

Family reunification: dependent status for spouses and children of permit holders or PRC holders.

Student entry: temporary residence for education at accredited institutions.

Permanent Resident’s Certificate (PRC): long-term residence status available to qualifying residents, granting indefinite stay.

BOTC (British Overseas Territories Citizenship): status linked to Bermuda, relevant for long-term residents who may later naturalise.

Department of Immigration: the authority issuing permits and PRCs.

Police clearance: required background check for most residence routes.

Renewal: extension process for permits and certificates before expiry.

Residence types

Bermuda offers residence through several structured categories. Below are the main options:

• Work permits: Employers must apply to the Department of Immigration for foreign workers, proving no qualified Bermudian is available. Permits range from 1 to 5 years. Categories include standard permits, short-term permits (up to 6 months), and specialised permits for executives or key employees.
• Family reunification: Dependents of work permit holders, PRC holders or BOTC citizens may apply for residence. Proof of relationship and financial support is required. Spouses and children can study but may need separate permission to work.
• Student residence: International students can obtain temporary residence to study at approved institutions, such as Bermuda College. They must show admission, financial capacity, and health insurance.
• PRC (Permanent Resident’s Certificate): Long-term residence for those who have lived in Bermuda for many years under specific legal categories. It provides security of stay, property ownership rights, and access to some public benefits, but not voting rights.
• Financially independent persons: Certain categories allow residence for wealthy individuals who can sustain themselves without local employment. Evidence of substantial income or savings is mandatory.
• Humanitarian grounds: Rarely, special residence may be granted on compassionate or medical bases.

Routes & timelines

Step-by-step

1. Choose route: work, family, student, PRC or independent person.
2. Gather documents: passports, police certificates, medical records, financial proof, employer sponsorship or admission letters.
3. Submit application: file with Bermuda’s Department of Immigration.
4. Provide biometrics: photo and fingerprinting if required.
5. Pay fees: official fees vary by permit category and duration.
6. Receive decision: approval or request for further evidence.
7. Maintain compliance: obey renewal deadlines and conditions of stay.

Documents

Typical requirements include valid passport, police clearance, marriage/birth certificates (for dependents), employer or university letters, financial statements, accommodation proof, and photos. Need certified translations or apostille wording? Use our legal & business translation support to match Bermuda’s standards.

Costs

Residence involves permit fees, legalisation of civil documents, translations, and possible legal advice. Compare routes and timelines in our Residency & Citizenship section to avoid missteps.

Renewals

Work permits and student visas are limited in duration and must be renewed before expiry. The PRC offers indefinite stay, though holders must continue to meet conditions such as lawful conduct and financial stability.

Integration

Residents are expected to maintain lawful presence, contribute to the economy, and respect Bermuda’s labour policies. Integration is often assessed by compliance, tax obligations, and absence of overstays or offences.

What changed in 2026

In 2026 Bermuda updated PRC eligibility, clarifying categories of long-term residents entitled to apply. Work permit digital submissions also became standardised, reducing processing delays.

Did you know?

Bermuda’s PRC provides indefinite residence rights but does not confer voting privileges or full British citizenship. It remains, however, a secure status for long-term expats and families.

Common mistakes

• Applying for work without employer sponsorship.
• Missing renewal deadlines, leading to unlawful presence.
• Assuming PRC equals voting rights or automatic citizenship.
• Submitting documents without apostille or certified translation.
• Failing to provide adequate financial evidence for dependents.
• Ignoring limits on dependents’ right to work.

FAQ

Expert opinion

Bermuda balances opportunity with strict control. Work permits and PRCs open stable paths, but success depends on exact documentation and respecting timelines. Families should plan dependents’ work status early to avoid surprises.

— Liam, Residency Specialist, VelesClub Int.

Next steps

Thinking long-term? Get a free consultation with VelesClub Int. and map your path from residence to PRC and eventual citizenship. Visit our main platform or explore the Residency & Citizenship section — and continue to the companion citizenship article to align your timeline.