Brexit
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Breaking: Residency Applications Suspended
In a surprise move, the Gibraltar Government has announced a temporary suspension of new residency applications for EEA nationals, following the publication of the Immigration (EU Exit) Regulations 2025 in the Gibraltar Gazette. The new rules, effective from 6 October, prevent the issue of new residence documents to EEA nationals who were not already registered by that date.
What’s changed
From now, anyone without a valid registration certificate, residence card, or permanent residence document can no longer apply for one. While the Government has stressed the measure is temporary, it has not given a timeline for when applications will resume.
According to GBC, the new restrictions also apply to UK nationals. The move follows what the Government has described the year-on-year increase as “unprecedented” with more people seeking to live and work in Gibraltar. Figures released by the Government show that more than 3,000 people migrated to Gibraltar in the past three years: 952 in 2022, 896 in 2023, and 1,245 in 2024.
Applications submitted before 6 October will still be processed. The Chief Minister retains discretionary powers to approve individual cases in “limited circumstances,” such as to meet international obligations, prevent hardship, or serve Gibraltar’s economic interests.
Government’s explanation
In a statement to GBC, the Government said:
“The rules are not at all intended to apply to people in gainful employment who move to Gibraltar to contribute to our economy and public finances. They are designed to prevent abuse of the system. They apply to EEA and UK nationals.”
Why it matters
The suspension could have implications for businesses recruiting from overseas, particularly in financial services, gaming, and hospitality, sectors that rely on skilled workers from the EEA and UK. The lack of a defined end date adds further uncertainty for employers managing current or future hiring plans.
The GFSB is writing to Government for more details. In the meantime, the GFSB is seeking feedback from members on how this measure could impact recruitment, staffing, and operations.
Have your say: Share your views via the GFSB’s Glue Up community page or email admin@gfsb.gi.
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