In order for an expat to work in Antigua the employer must be able to prove that they have tried to recruit a local worker first but were unable to fill the position. They must show that they have interviewed locals and demonstrate why they were unsuitable for the job. An employer can also hire senior managers and skilled professionals such as accountants from abroad.

Work permits are generally issued for one year, although this can be renewed if the employer can demonstrate a good reason why they need to keep that particular worker. Work permits are unlikely to be issued to somebody who has a police record in their home country, but there is some room for negotiation between the Labour Department and the Immigration Department, depending on the type of offence committed.

All those that are not a citizen of the country or have status as a temporary resident will require a work permit. Employers who hire illegal workers face fines or even imprisonment. The cost of a work permit can range from $500EC to $7500EC, depending upon the position being applied for. Employers cannot advertise for an administrator but actually make that person a senior manager in order to avoid the higher charges. It is the employers who must apply for the permits from the Ministry of Labour before they can advertise a position abroad, the employee should not have to deal with the paperwork themselves.

Any overtime that is worked is not compulsory in any profession and the worker is entitled to be paid for any extra time they work and the same applies to national holidays. Every worker is permitted to join a union if they choose and the employer is responsible for all health and safety matters in the work place. They must also provide lunch facilities, supplies of drinking water and toilet facilities for all workers. By law all workers earn a minimum of one day's paid leave for each month they work, which equates to a minimum of 12 days per year, but this can only be taken after 12 months in the position.

Probationary periods are generally for 3 months but can be less than this by negotiation, although it cannot legally be more. The details of the probationary period must be made clear to the employee at the outset to avoid any issues later on.

Antigua and Barbuda offers a number of opportunities for the expat worker. The tourism industry is thriving though work would be seasonal. There are also possibilities in teaching and medicine.