Bermuda's immigration system is governed by the Bermuda Immigration and Protection Act 1956, with foreign nationals most commonly accessing residency through employer-sponsored work permits. Permanent residency status is difficult to obtain and requires meeting significant requirements.
Foreign nationals working in Bermuda must hold a valid work permit, with applications submitted by the employer rather than the individual. Bermuda's Department of Immigration administers multiple permit types depending on the nature of employment.
Bermuda does not issue its own tourist visa; since March 2014, visitors from most countries can enter without one. Travelers from certain nations must hold a valid multiple re-entry visa (MRV) for the US, UK, or Canada prior to arrival.
Bermuda has several full-service animal hospitals, mobile veterinary services, and 24-hour emergency care. The Bermuda Veterinary Association is the island's professional regulatory body for practising vets.
All road vehicles in Bermuda must pass an annual safety and emissions inspection through Bermuda Emissions Control Ltd (BECL) before a vehicle licence can be issued or renewed. There is no large national motoring organisation equivalent to the AA operating in Bermuda.
Bermuda has no Uber, Lyft, or equivalent international ride-hailing platforms. On-demand transport relies on a network of licensed, government-regulated taxis.
Bermuda has no personal income tax, capital gains tax, VAT, or inheritance tax. Government revenue is raised through payroll tax, customs duties, and other indirect levies.
Selling property in Bermuda without an agent is legally permitted and avoids the standard 5% sales commission, but sellers must still engage a licensed local attorney and comply with Bermuda's conveyancing rules and stamp duty requirements.
Non-Bermudians cannot self-employ without the appropriate permit; the Global Entrepreneur Work Permit is the primary route for independent entrepreneurs. Company formation is also subject to restrictions for expats.