Somewhere down the list of synonyms for the word ‘isolation’ is likely the country of Bermuda – about as far-flung and remote as you can get in today’s modern world.
It makes sense, then, that despite the Atlantic island nation’s dire economic situation in the wake of the global pandemic, it is doing everything it can to wrangle what few tourists might be able to reach its sun-kissed shores.
As reported by The Lonely Planet, Bermuda is offering year-long residences to internationals who can work remotely – an offer so good that it’ll surely cause a rift between employees and bosses in workplaces around the world.
It hopes the scheme will stimulate economic activity as the new temporary residents will splurge on hospitality and accommodation, without displacing Bermudians in the workforce.
Keen? The requirements are fairly straight forward.
You must be over 18, of “good character,” and able to supply proof of employment and health insurance. The offer is also open to students who can demonstrate that they are enrolled in a research, undergraduate, graduate or doctorate program.
Bermuda’s Minister of Labor, Jason Hayward, said in a statement:
“There are persons who are location-independent, using technology to perform their job no matter where they are.”
“Such persons work remotely, telecommuting rather than being physically present at a company’s headquarters or office. Remote working has been a growing trend for some time and is something the Bermuda Government has been examining as part of its technology-focused economic diversification strategy.”
The catch? Because there is always a catch. You need to apply via the Bermudan Government website by August 1st. So basically, you have to decide to maroon yourself on an island for a year (and get the okay from the boss) before this Saturday.
Residency certificates cost US$263 (AU$373) – good luck.
Staying a little closer to home? Check out New Zealand’s five-star Delamore Lodge offer that includes helicopter transfers.
