If you’ve ever dreamt of escaping to sunnier climes, Bermuda’s new residency scheme could be the answer. Olivia Palamountain reports
Working from home and bored of the view from your desk? Try switching things up for the pink sands (really) and turquoise seas of Bermuda. The British Overseas Territory in the North Atlantic is tempting digital nomads aged 18 and over with the promise of a year-long residency to work or study in a bid to help kickstart the economy.
Applications via the government’s website opened on August 1 with stipulations that include health insurance and proof of employment or enrollment in higher education, plus a one-off fee of US$263.
Commitment-phobes can also enjoy a taste of island life, with tourist visas extended from 90 days to around six months. The working from anywhere trend has been building for a while, but since the pandemic hit, it’s been accelerated by default rather than by design.
“Bermuda has always warmly welcomed visitors to her pink sand shoreline, and we are excited to continue that tradition of hospitality with this revised long-stay residency program,” Glenn Jones, Interim CEO of Bermuda Tourism Authority, told Robb Report.
“This initiative paves the way for an infusion of economic activity for local businesses (and gives us) an opportunity to share our uncrowded open spaces and coveted island lifestyle with travelers from across the globe looking to work or study remotely.”
Jones adds that thanks to proactive leadership, Bermuda has also managed the pandemic well, with the island re-opening “safely and responsibly” to regular commercial flights from around the world. Find more about its Covid-19 travel policies and requirements here.
Bermuda is the second island nation to offer a residency deal for digital nomads, hot on the heels of Barbados. The Barbados 12 Month Welcome Stamp scheme opened on July 12, giving flexible workers and travellers a year-long opportunity to soak up some Caribbean culture for a heftier fee of US$2,000.
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