By Deandrea Hamilton | Editor
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands — A sweeping immigration crackdown is now underway across the Turks and Caicos Islands, with unannounced job site inspections and tougher enforcement against undocumented and improperly employed workers, according to Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Border Services, Hon. Jamell Robinson.
In a ministerial statement delivered in the House of Assembly on Friday, Minister Robinson made it clear: enforcement teams from the Immigration Department will be showing up without notice at work sites and residences, targeting both undocumented individuals and employers who are breaking immigration rules.
“There are far too many persons in this country—albeit legal—who are engaging in employment without proper authorization,” said Robinson. “If you do not have work for the people for whom you are making work permit applications, leave them where they are and do not apply.”
The Minister also raised concerns about fraudulent immigration documents being used to gain employment. He urged employers to scrutinize all paperwork presented to them and contact immigration officials when uncertain. “We need to put an end to this, and it starts here and now,” he declared.
Robinson revealed that for the month of July, 304 individuals were detained, and 460 were repatriated, reflecting intensified border operations. Two boats carrying migrants were intercepted — one on July 4 with 194 individuals, and another on July 21 with 62. The Immigration Department was also part of five multi-agency operations last month targeting illegal immigration.
The government is also doubling down on intelligence-driven enforcement, with the K-9 Unit increasing its presence at ports and in communities. “Visitors and residents can expect to see more visible canine operations,” said Robinson, pointing to a $170,000 investment to strengthen the unit’s ability to detect illicit drugs and contraband.
While the government’s enforcement push is ramping up, Robinson also highlighted progress in improving immigration services. After months of backlogs, the Work Permit Application Processing System (APS) is now fully operational. This digital platform allows for online submission and payment of work permit applications, reducing the need for in-person visits. Computer stations are now available at all immigration service centres for public use.
“This will create greater efficiency and aid tremendously in eliminating traffic in the department,” said Robinson, encouraging employers to transition fully to the new system.
In a regional context, Robinson updated Parliament on his recent participation at the 49th CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Jamaica, where key issues such as the crisis in Haiti, regional security, climate change, food security, and digital safety were addressed. He emphasized the importance of Turks and Caicos maintaining a presence at these discussions, even as an associate member represented by The Bahamas.
Closing his statement, Minister Robinson said his ministry is committed to protecting national interests and enforcing the law: “We might not get it all right, but we are always devising ways and means to better serve and deliver for our people.”
