Barbers have returned to the list of open job categories in the latest update to extend a moratorium on new work permits for certain types of employment.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Economy and Labour said that the change was made because barbershops were unable to fill vacancies.

General bartenders have moved from the closed list back to the restricted list.

The spokesman said that the latest extension to the moratorium on new work permits for closed category jobs was effective from August 1 for five months, ending on December 31, 2022.

He explained: “Please note that barbers have moved from the closed list into the open category.

“It must be noted that before the pandemic, barbers were in the open category.

“This adjustment, which returns them to their original classification, was made due to ongoing staff turnover and the inability of local-owned barbershops to fill vacancies in this occupational category.”

The spokesman added: “The current list of restricted job categories included under the work permit policy has been revised to include general bartender.

“It must be noted that before the pandemic, general bartenders were on the restricted list.

“This change, which returns them to their original category, was due to high staff turnover leading to shortages in this occupational category from the hospitality sector.”

In line with work permit policies, the application process for jobs in the restricted category is the same as the open category process except that the employer can only apply for a maximum term of a year, the spokesman said.

He added that the employer must submit evidence that any candidates screened and recommended by the Department of Workforce Development were “appropriately considered”.

The spokesman said: “DWD is expected to respond to inquiries by employers within ten working days.

“Should no response be forthcoming from DWD, the employer may submit the application with written evidence that they made enquiries.

“The partner of a Bermudian, Permanent Resident Certificate holder, non-Bermudian on a work permit, or other legal resident of Bermuda who has already received permission to reside may now apply to seek employment.

“Partners who do not have permission to reside may apply to reside and seek employment.”

More information about “partner-genuine and subsisting relationships” is available through the Government portal at gov.bm.

The spokesman added: “The Ministry of Economy and Labour appreciates the current challenges within our labour market and the significant impact the pandemic has had on many local businesses.

“Our aim is always to ensure the effective use of policies that create jobs for Bermudians.

“Individuals looking to increase their skill sets and employability are always encouraged to register with the Department of Workforce Development at dwd@gov.bm and explore more options for further education through the Bermuda College at www.college.bm.”