Working in the Cayman Islands

Despite the island’s laid-back atmosphere, workplaces in the Cayman Islands uphold formal business standards, especially in regulated industries like finance, law, and healthcare.

The islands boast a stable economy with a high GDP per capita, attracting globally mobile professionals seeking career growth in a tax-friendly environment. While securing a work permit requires employer sponsorship, skilled foreign professionals remain in demand, especially in high-level finance and legal roles.

Job market in the Cayman Islands

The job market in the Cayman Islands is thriving, with finance and legal services at its core. Many global firms operate here, and it’s a hotspot for professionals with expertise in investments, compliance, and risk management.

Healthcare professionals, particularly specialists and experienced nurses, are in high demand. The growing expat population has increased the need for top-tier medical services, and there’s consistent recruitment of international healthcare talent.

The tourism and hospitality sector has rebounded strongly since the pandemic. While hiring is now more selective, experienced candidates in hotel management, luxury tourism, and fine dining still have promising prospects. 

There are some construction management roles available, although the industry has seen some slowdown due to regulatory changes and rising material costs.

Teaching remains a viable career path, especially for educators specialising in STEM subjects, special education, and English as a second language (ESL). Schools actively recruit from the UK, US, and Canada especially.

Finding a job in the Cayman Islands

If you are job hunting in the Cayman Islands, a local recruitment agency is often the best place to start. Many employers work directly with recruitment firms to fill roles, especially in finance, law, healthcare, and IT. Securing a work permit is essential, as employers must prove there are no qualified Caymanians available before hiring a foreign professional.

You can also register as a jobseeker on JobsCayman, the government’s official job portal, where all vacancies must be listed before an employer can recruit a non-resident. Many professionals also find opportunities through LinkedIn, industry-specific networking, and direct applications to companies.

Work permits are issued through Workforce Opportunities and Residency Cayman (WORC), and processing times vary. A Temporary Work Permit (TWP) can be approved in as little as five business days, while a Full Work Permit (FWP) may take several weeks. Employers typically handle the application process.

Useful links

• JobsCayman
• Affinity Recruitment
• SteppingStones Recruitment
• CML Offshore Recruitment

Work culture in the Cayman Islands

Work culture in the Cayman Islands is professional and structured, although the island’s relaxed lifestyle influences work-life balance. Life on the islands may feel easygoing, but workplaces maintain a structured and often formal environment, particularly in finance, law, and healthcare.

The business culture is hierarchical, but professionals are encouraged to contribute ideas, particularly in team-driven industries. Punctuality is expected, and responsiveness – whether in meetings or emails – reflects well on your professionalism.

Hybrid work is gaining traction in industries like finance and technology, but client-facing sectors such as law, hospitality, and healthcare still prioritise in-person interaction.

Workplace expectations vary by industry. Professionals in the finance and legal sectors typically follow a formal dress code with tailored suits. If you work in tourism, technology, or the creative industry, you will probably enjoy more casual and stylish attire that reflects your personal branding.

Read more: Business Culture in the Cayman Islands