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1. What is the Montserrat Remote Worker Stamp?

The Montserrat Remote Worker Stamp is a 12-Month travel permit for a non-national who is employed in a country other than Montserrat, and who is employed by a company registered and operating outside of Montserrat (not carrying on business in or from Montserrat)

2. Can the Montserrat Remote Worker Programme Stamp be revoked?

The Chief Immigration Officer or the Minister of Communication, Work, Energy and Labour may revoke the Stamp of an individual who contravenes or fails to comply with the provisions of the stamp.

3. Where can I sign up for my Montserrat Remote Stamp?

You can sign up for your Montserrat Remote Worker Stamp HERE.

4. When can I start my application for the Montserrat Remote Worker Programme?

Applications for the Stamp opened on the 29th January 2021 and you can start applying HERE.

5. How long will it take for my application to be processed?

Our Customer Services Team will begin processing your FULLY COMPLETED application within 24 hours. Your Stamp will be processed and confirmed or denied in 7 business days. However, the process may take up to 14 business days or more if you have not submitted all of your supporting documents or incorrect information.

6. What is the eligibility criteria for Montserrat’s Remote Worker Stamp?
To be eligible for the Montserrat Remote Work Stamp, you must prove that you can work location-independently using telecommunications technologies. In addition, you will need to prove that you fit under any one of the three following categories

• You work for an employer that is registered in a foreign country and you have a contract of work with that employer;
• You conduct business activity for a company that is registered in a foreign country and of which you are a partner/shareholder; or
• You offer freelance or consulting services mostly to clients, whose permanent establishments are in a foreign country, and with whom you have contracts.
•  

For the first category, the legislation does not distinguish between public or private sector employers. What is important is that you have a contract of employment with the employer and you are able to work remotely using telecommunications technologies. The other important eligibility requirement to be aware of is the income threshold, which is meant to provide evidence of how you will support yourself during your time in Montserrat. Currently, the annual income threshold is USD$70,000.

7. What supporting documents do I need to provide?

Your Remote Worker Stamp application should include the following documents:

• A completed application form (Apply Here)
• Proof of Employment or Business Incorporation Certificate.
• Proof of the annual income of the applicant, which must exceed USD$70,000 and be derived from outside of Montserrat
• Proof of valid health insurance with Montserrat and COVID-19 cover in respect of the applicant and any family member accompanying him for the period of which the Remote Employment Stamp is to be granted
• Proof of Visas (where applicable) (See all visa requirements HERE)
• A list of the items the applicant wishes to import free of customs duties and consumption tax and which are necessary for or connected to the fulfilment of his employment duties while in Montserrat, if any.
• Proof of relationship to dependants.

Each applicant (as well as each family member) will also submit:

• A passport size photograph 
• A copy of their Birth Certificate
• A copy of the biographical data page of their passport (Passport must have a minimum of 6 months validity)

8. Is any currency acceptable for the proof of annual income?
Yes. However, the equivalent should be a minimum of USD$70,000 annually.

9. Will my family have to apply independently?

Families can apply under this programme. The Family Bundle Fee is USD$750 for a family with up to 3 dependants. Any additional applicants are required to pay USD$250 each. 

10. What are the fees for the Montserrat Remote Work Stamp?

The fees paid during the application process for the Montserrat Remote Work Stamp are non-refundable, and proof of payment must accompany every application. Please note applications are assessed before approval, and applicants must satisfy the eligibility criterion set above.

Applicable processing fees:

• SINGLE: USD$500;
• FAMILIES (up to 3 dependants): US$750  and USD$250 for every additional dependant

Applicant(s) will be informed by email of successful application(s). Fees are to be paid by credit card as shown on the application form (VISA/MASTERCARD/AMEX). A receipt will be issued for the applicant and declared dependants.

11. Is the application fee refundable?

The application fees paid for Montserrat’s Remote Worker Stamp are non-refundable.

12. Who is considered to be a ‘dependant’ when applying for the Remote Worker Stamp?

Dependant means: 

• a child or stepchild under the age of eighteen years;
• any other relative of the applicant who by reason of physical or mental disability, age or infirmity is reliant on the applicant or his welfare.
  
  

13. When is my 12 month Montserrat Remote Worker Stamp valid from?

The 12 month Montserrat Remote Worker Stamp is issued on arrival into Montserrat and is valid from that date for 12 months.

14. Will I be able to renew my Stamp after 12 months?

As the Stamp is for 12 months only, you will need to re-apply as per the standard application process. 

15. Are there any restrictions on nationalities?
There are no nationality restrictions. However, Immigration reserves the right to reject applicants for national security reasons.

16. Will I be notified if my application is successful?

All applicants will receive an email confirming the outcome of their application.

17. Who do I contact for more information about the Montserrat Remote Worker Programme and for assistance with my application?
You can contact the Customer Services Team in the following ways:

1. • Email: remoteworker@gov.ms / info@montserratremoteworker.com 
   • Telephone: 1 (664) 491 4703/2521
   • Facebook Group: bit.ly/RemoteWorkMNI
   • Follow the @RemoteWorkerMNI on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube for the latest 
     news on the Montserrat Remote Worker Stamp.

1. Are Montserrat’s borders open?

Montserrat’s borders opened on October 1, 2021 to fully vaccinated travelers. Individuals are considered ‘fully vaccinated’ 14-days after receipt of the second dose in a 2-dose COVID-19 vaccine series, or 14 days after receipt of one dose in a single dose COVID-19 vaccine.  Fully vaccinated travelers are required to quarantine for five days at their designated accommodation.  On Day 3 or 4 an exit test is taken, once negative individuals are free to explore the island. 

The following persons are still allowed to travel to Montserrat:

• persons whose nationality or dual nationality is Montserratian;
• individuals who hold a permit of permanent residence;
• a person who is ordinarily resident in Montserrat;
• a member of the crew of an aircraft or ship (including freight, cargo or courier craft or vessel);
• husband, wife, child or other dependant of a Montserratian or permanent resident;
• non-resident technician, once permission has been granted for the person to disembark in Montserrat prior to travelling to Montserrat;
• any other person, as may be determined by the Minister for the purpose of the suppression of COVID-19;
• a Remote Worker and his dependents.

However, persons must register to travel to Montserrat by completing and submitting the ‘Access Declaration Form’ at least 72 hours or 3 days prior to the expected date of arrival. Additionally, entry into Montserrat will only be allowed through air access at the John A. Osborne Airport. The electronic ‘Access Declaration form’ is available HERE.

2. Is the airport open?

The airport is currently open to pre-approved travelers. Persons who would like to visit  Montserrat must complete the ‘Access Declaration Form’ that can be found HERE.

3. Does the October 1, 2021, Antigua & Barbuda Travel Advisory apply to in-transit travelers to Montserrat?

Yes. All arriving passengers including returning nationals and residents are required to have received at least one dose of a World Health Organization approved 2-dose COVID 19 vaccine or a single dose vaccine to be permitted entry into Antigua and Barbuda. Children below the age of eighteen (18) years arriving at a port of entry are exempted from this requirement.

4. When will Montserrat’s ferry service resume?

The Ferry Service between Montserrat and Antigua has been discontinued until further notice.

5. Where can Montserrat’s travelers get accurate, updated information?
Accurate and updated information can be found on the Government of Montserrat’s website: www.gov.ms

6. What happens if I cannot get my test results in time to upload before travelling?

In order to approve your travel to Montserrat, the health authorities require that you get tested for Covid-19 using a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test.  The test must be conducted no earlier than 5 days prior to entry into Montserrat. Tests older than 5 days are not acceptable. Failing that, approval would not be granted and your trip would have to be rescheduled.

7. What are the hotel/villas cancellation policies, especially if I cannot travel at the last minute?

Hotels/villas are encouraged to implement flexible cancellation policies. However, each visitor must
familiarize himself/herself with the cancellation policy of the property at which they intend to stay.
You can find more information about accommodation on the island HERE.

8. What happens if I contract the COVID-19 virus test positive in Montserrat?

A visitor who tests positive while in Montserrat may be allowed to remain in isolation at his/her approved accommodation if he/she is asymptomatic or is experiencing mild symptoms that do not require management at a medical facility. He/she will be managed by the health team, which will include monitoring of symptoms, hospital transfer if necessary, and subsequent medical clearance.

9. Can I leave the island if I test positive for COVID-19?

It is unlikely that a visitor who tests positive will be able to leave the island before medical clearance of the infection unless as medical evacuation, covered under their COVID-19 insurance policy.

10. Am I required to have travel health/medical insurance?

Yes, you are required to have valid health/medical insurance with Montserrat and COVID-19 coverage.

11. Are Montserrat’s protocols the same for passengers travelling from all markets?
The stay in place period is 14 days for visitors coming from areas of low prevalence (less than 0.2%) of COVID-19 and visitors coming from areas of high prevalence (more than 0.2%). Visitors staying less than 10 or 14 days will only be allowed to move around the island through the guided movement system.

1. Do I have to show a return ticket to enter Montserrat with the Remote Worker Stamp?

No, you must have your passport and your welcome stamp which was sent to you electronically on successful completion of your application.

2. Can I travel in and out of Montserrat on the Remote Work Stamp?

Yes you can travel in and out of Montserrat any time during the 12 months of the date your Stamp is granted.

3. How are transfers from the airport to my accommodation handled? Are we crowding into a van without visitors? Are there limits on capacity?

Transfers are being handled by Safe Environment Approved ground transportation operators. Capacity and seating will depend on the ability to ensure social distancing for visitors/passengers who are not travelling in groups or a family unit.

4. Is it possible for us to hire a chef during quarantine?

Yes, once the protocols are followed you can hire a chef to prepare your meals.

5. Where do I get my Montserrat driving license?

In order to be able to drive legally in Montserrat you must obtain a temporary local driving license from the immigration section at your port of entry or from the Royal Montserrat Police Service. The temporary Montserrat driver license may be granted with or without a driving test, for a period not exceeding three months. The temporary driver’s license cost EC$50 or USD$20, and you must present your current driving license to obtain the local permit. 

6. How do I license my vehicle?

Private motorcycles and motor cars brought into Montserrat by foreign visitors for their own use for a period not exceeding three months, don’t need to have the Montserrat registration. However, the licensing officer may issue a temporary license for the owner to use the private vehicle for no more than three months. For that, the owner must have a valid car registration license issued by the country in which his vehicle was last licensed and third-party liability insurance. For more information contact the Licensing Department on 1 (664) 491 2521.

1. Does the Montserrat Remote Worker Stamp allow employment with a Montserrat employer?

This Stamp only allows you to work remotely for companies and individuals not registered in Montserrat.

2. Will I be liable to pay Montserrat Income Tax?

You will not be liable to pay Montserrat Income Tax.

3. What services can I access whilst living in Montserrat?

This programme will provide applicants with the ability to live in Montserrat in a similar manner to residents, by providing access to phone lines, resident ID cards, banking facilities and the ability to rent accommodation or send children to school.

1. What type of housing and accommodation is available in Montserrat?

Montserrat offers a wide range of accommodation from budget-friendly studios to private luxury villas. You can view a list of accommodations on the island HERE.

2. Where can I find the list of Montserrat’s government approved quarantine facilities? You can view the full list of Government of Montserrat’s approved quarantine facilities
HERE. 

3. Will I be able to rent a property myself or will I have to rent a property via an agent?

It is possible to rent a property for yourself for both short- and medium-term letting, you can also look at holiday homes and hotel accommodation as alternatives. You can view a list of accommodations on the island HERE.

1. How reliable is the internet in Montserrat?

Montserrat has high-speed fibre internet with download/upload speeds up to 20 Mbps and 3G mobile services.

2. What is the cost of the internet on the island?

There are two telecommunications providers (Digicel and Flow) on island with various packages on offer for personal internet. 

3. Is there free public wifi?

Free Wifi is available throughout the island in restaurants, cafes, hotels, shops, public libraries and buildings.

4. Can non-nationals attend school for the 12 month period?

Non nationals may attend both public and private schools in Montserrat. Education is compulsory for children between the ages of 5 and 16. There are also several tertiary education institutions including The University of The West Indies and The Montserrat Community College.