Immigration Legislation & Regulations Commence 1 May 2026

17 April 2026 | Press Release | By: Martha Connolly

Cabinet has approved the commencement orders for amendments to the Act, following their passage in Parliament in December 2025 and March 2026. The amendments will come into force on 1 May, alongside the approval of the accompanying Regulations which are now published and available to the public.

The Regulations are:

  • The Caymanian Protection (Fees) Regulations, 2026;
  • The Caymanian Protection (Temporary Work Permit and Business Visitors’ Permits) (Amendment) Regulations, 2026;
  • The Caymanian Protection (Amendment) Regulations, 2026; and
  • The Caymanian Protection (Arrangements of Convenience) Regulations, 2026.

A key component of the immigration reform is the introduction of the Caymanian Protection (Fees) Regulations, 2026, which consolidates all immigration-related fees into a single set of regulations. This new framework also introduces a more structured, tiered approach to certain fees, ensuring that they are applied in a fair and proportionate manner. These updates reflect the fact that many existing fees have remained unchanged for over 15 years and are intended to support the sustainability and efficiency of administrative services.

The Caymanian Protection (Temporary Work Permit and Business Visitors’ Permits) (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 introduce refinements to the processing and management of temporary permits, improving clarity and streamlining application procedures for employers and applicants.

The Caymanian Protection (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 update key provisions within the existing framework, including strengthened administrative requirements and clearer obligations for employers, supporting improved compliance and more effective decision-making.

The Caymanian Protection (Arrangements of Convenience) Regulations, 2026 establish clearer rules and safeguards to address marriages and civil partnerships which are intended to circumvent immigration laws. These guidelines are expected to reinforce the integrity of the system.

These changes to the immigration framework have been long overdue and this is a monumental accomplishment for the Cayman Islands Government. This major change effort which was led by the Minister of Caymanian Employment & Immigration Hon., Michael Myles, was strongly supported by the Premier, Hon., Andre Ebanks, members of the NCFC Government as well as other sitting Members of Parliament.

Hon. Minister, Michael Myles states, “This is a proud and historic moment for our Government. The approval of these regulations and the upcoming implementation of Immigration changes reflects months of hard work, collaboration, and careful consideration—delivering a framework that supports both economic growth and the well-being of our people.”

In the coming weeks, further guidance and supporting information relating to the regulations will be made available through official Government channels. We encourage stakeholders and the public to familiarize themselves ahead of the commencement date.

To view FAQs, the regulations and the fee structure visit gov.ky/immigrationreform or send questions to the Ministry by emailing MCEI@gov.ky.

 

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