Essential Worker Permits Receive Priority Processing
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Justice is making strides in addressing the significant backlog of residency and landing permits, particularly for essential workers such as medical staff at the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) and teaching staff at various schools. Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to resolving these pressing issues, which directly impact the well-being of medical and educational institutions.
The Ministry has implemented a priority processing agreement for essential worker applications to ensure expedited handling. Immigration officials communicate directly with institutional representatives to address issues and provide updates. Minister Tackling has personally taken a hands-on approach, processing and validating over 1,000 permits herself. Working evenings and weekends alongside immigration staff, she has sought to reduce the backlog significantly.
However, challenges remain. Some delays are tied to applicants' incomplete payment processes. For example, a recent case involved a medical professional whose landing permit was held due to a pending deposit. Immigration authorities emphasize that all required payments must be completed before permits can be issued.
A new digital immigration management platform is being introduced to improve the system. The system aims to enhance efficiency and transparency by allowing applicants to track their application status online and reducing unnecessary delays caused by manual intervention.
Former Minister of Justice Raises Concerns Over KPSM Payments
While the Ministry has been addressing the permit backlog, other concerns regarding justice workers have been raised. Former Minister of Justice Lyndon Lewis recently issued a press release highlighting non-payment issues affecting Immigration and Border Protection Services (IBPS). These concerns include outstanding salaries and overtime payments allegedly due to administrative deficiencies within the Immigration Department.
Minister Tackling has acknowledged these grievances and provided updates to clarify the situation. According to the Ministry, all outstanding salaries for the Immigration Border Protection System (IBPS) staff were settled as of March 26, 2025. However, retroactive overtime adjustments, dating back to January 1, 2023, remain pending and are being addressed as part of the finalization of national decrees.
Steps Toward Organizational Improvement
The Ministry of Justice remains focused on improving its operational efficiency, not only by addressing payment and permit issues but also by reviewing internal workflows and staff performance. Efforts are currently underway to reorganize the immigration system, ensuring smoother processing and better service delivery.
For now, applicants awaiting permits are advised to ensure they have met all payment requirements, while justice workers are encouraged to stay informed as the Ministry continues to address unresolved payment issues. Minister Tackling has reiterated her commitment to tackling these challenges head-on, setting reforms in motion to ensure long-term improvements in the nation’s immigration and justice systems.
