Our valued migrant workers : Offering support and important information 

The subject of migrant workers in Jersey – and specifically how they are treated – has been in the spotlight recently. In this blog post, Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, Deputy Mary Le Hegarat, explores the value of migrant workers to Jersey, the responsibilities of employers and offers a reminder of where migrant workers can seek help and support, if it is needed

There have been recent accounts in the media describing the experiences of migrant workers in Jersey. These stories are deeply troubling, and I want to express empathy to anyone who feels mistreated or unsupported.   

 Migrant workers are an essential part of our Island community, and their welfare is of the utmost importance.  

I think it is important to offer some clarity about the Work Permit Policy. It is important for islanders – particularly those who employ migrant workers – to understand:  

•  the protections already in place,   

• the responsibilities required of employers, and   

• the ongoing improvements made following direct engagement with workers and community organisations.  

 Contract changes   

There have been accounts of workers arriving in Jersey to find a second contract presented to them. Under the Work Permit Policy, any amendments to contracts signed and submitted as part of the work permit application must be notified to Jersey Customs and Immigration Service (JCIS). This requirement exists precisely to protect workers from being placed in altered or disadvantageous conditions without oversight.  

 Charges for recruitment and work permit fees  

The Work Permit Policy was amended in 2024 to ensure that employers do not pass recruitment costs or work permit fees on to employees, either directly or indirectly. These costs are the employer’s responsibility and form part of the conditions under which they are permitted to hire overseas staff. Workers who believe they have been inappropriately charged must inform JCIS so that the matter can be investigated.  

 Worker mobility   

There have also been accounts that migrant workers feel trapped and are unable to move roles.   

Following feedback received through the Work Permit Holder Welfare Review published in 2023, a number of changes to the Work Permit Policy were made, including reducing the period during which a temporary work permit holder must remain with their original employer.   

 This requirement has been reduced from 12 months to 6 months, thus increasing worker mobility, giving individuals greater flexibility, and importantly, reducing long term dependency on a single employer.   

 It is also important to note that JCIS will always consider each individual’s circumstances on a case by case basis. If there are valid reasons for switching employers earlier than 6 months, this can be permitted. This is an important safeguard for workers who may be experiencing difficulties or have concerns requiring urgent intervention.  

 It is important to stress that there is also provision in the Work Permit Policy for workers on temporary permits to switch to long term work permits without leaving Jersey, provided they meet the criteria for the new role.    

 Employer responsibilities  

The Work Permit Policy sets clear expectations for employers, including:  

• ensuring equal pay for equal work  

• complying with the Employment (Jersey) Law 2003  

• adopting robust and ethical recruitment practices  

• ensuring accommodation meets standards that support workers’ health and wellbeing  

 As the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, I expect all work permit holding employers to uphold these responsibilities consistently and transparently.  

Support services  

JCIS will actively investigate concerns to ensure all individuals are treated with dignity and respect at all times. However, they can only act on information they are given.   

I therefore strongly encourage workers who feel that the Work Permit Policy is being breached to provide that information to JCIS. All investigations undertaken are fair, robust and impartial.   

You can contact JCIS in the following ways: 

Phone JCIS directly on 01534 448000 (choose option 3) or email immigration@gov.je. 

You can give information anonymously too, in the following ways: 

By email: customs.confidential@gov.je, or  

Online: report a customs or immigration offence online using the anonymous form: Report a customs or immigration offence 

The International Cultural Centre (ICC), which provides free, confidential support on a range of areas including, work, housing, health, immigration is also available for anyone living in Jersey to access.   

Additionally, the Jersey Advisory and Conciliation Service (JACS) plays a crucial role in supporting workers facing employment problems. JACS offers independent, confidential advice on disputes arising under the Employment (Jersey) Law 2003, including:  

• Contractual issues  

• Unfair deductions  

• Grievances  

• Dismissal matters  

• Workplace treatment and rights  

 No worker should feel that they have nowhere to turn.  

While it is vital to offer clarity about the Work Permit Policy, the experiences described by some workers in the local media are deeply concerning. Their accounts highlight a number of issues including, barriers to raising concerns, fear of retaliation, financial vulnerability and feelings of discrimination or marginalisation.  

These issues demand continued attention, and they strengthen our resolve to keep improving both protections and communication for migrant workers.  

Migrant workers are essential to Jersey’s success. They deserve safety, fairness, respect, and clear avenues for support. I, and the Government of Jersey, remain committed to strengthening worker protections.   

This includes introducing modern day slavery legislation which is fit for Jersey, ensuring employer accountability, and continuing to make improvements to our Work Permit Policy based on lived experience and feedback.