Staff shortages prompt seasonal visa changes

Changes to make it easier for some people to get a Isle of Man seasonal working visa have been announced. 

The introduction of a new system called the Worker (Seasonal) Migrant visa has been brought forward by the island's department of enterprise. 

The route enables non-British nationals to come to the Isle of Man to take up temporary employment for up to 9 months.

It means local hospitality business can now employ seasonal workers from Europe who are no longer able to work in England due to Brexit.

It comes in response to staff shortages in the Manx hospitality sector.

Enterprise Minister, Dr Alex Allinson said it's a positive step and "enables many businesses to employ workers from outside the UK and Ireland".

The government said applicants for the Seasonal route do not need to meet English language requirements but must hold confirmation of employment from an Isle of Man employer.

They must also be paid a minimum salary of £20,800 (pro-rated for the nine months).

More information can be found here.