But the Fitial administration disagrees, saying the employment of aliens is a shared responsibility between the local and federal government.
“In the event that the worker cannot find another job within the specified period of time, the umbrella permit will be revoked under CNMI law. Once the permit is revoked, the worker is subject to removal (or deportation) under the INA unless the worker can obtain a federal visa or conditional work permit (under DHS regulations that do not yet exist) which entitles the worker to remain in the Commonwealth,” it added.
The CNMI government issued umbrella permits to thousands of migrant workers, foreign students, investors and their dependents before the islands’ immigration system was federalized on Nov. 28, 2009.
A major issue now among employers is whether they should still renew with the CNMI Department of Labor their foreign hires whose entry permits are ending this year but who hold umbrella permits valid through next year.
These employers said they would rather save the money they have to pay the CNMI Department of Labor.
The Saipan Chamber of Commerce said it would ask the CNMI government to provide further explanation about the umbrella permits.
