IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Brunei’s Labour Department is requiring additional documentation for employment pass applications.

What does the change mean? Applicants must now present the original receipt issued by the Labour Department for the security deposit paid with respect to the job position requested, a cancellation form of the previous employee holding that position and an email receipt from the Labour Department indicating that the employer has completed the “Annual Census for Employer and Employee.”

Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing.

Visas/permits affected: Employment passes.

Who is affected: Bruneian employers and foreign nationals applying for employment passes.

Impact on processing times: There may be delays if any of the additional documentation is not immediately available.

Background: Applicants are required to submit the following:

  1. The original receipt issued by the Labour Department confirming that the employer has paid a security deposit relating to the relevant job position.
  2. A form indicating that the previous employee who filled the position has ceased employment and their employment pass has been canceled. The form should be endorsed by the Immigration Department with its cancellation chop.
  3. An emailed receipt from the Labour Department known as the “Resit Pengesahan Menghantar Penyata Maklumat Pekerjaan,” confirming that the employer has completed and submitted its annual workforce census.

BAL Analysis: Employers sponsoring foreign workers in Brunei should prepare for the additional documentation.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Brunei. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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