Brexit
News
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.
SHARE THIS
OTHER NEWS
Brexit
News
Treaty
Results Are In! Treaty Impact GFSB Members Flash Survey
The GFSB has conducted a flash survey of its members concerning their experiences during the first two weeks of the new Treaty arrangements.
The Office of Fair Trading's latest Annual Report reveals record numbers of businesses, plans to simplify licensing through a new Business Act and fewer consumer complaints. GFSB's Business Support Manager, Kim Chang, breaks down what the proposed reforms, increased digital services and stronger enforcement could mean for businesses, and why the GFSB's role in shaping policy has been recognised.
News
Thrive
What a Year!
What a year it's been! From the Treaty moving from negotiation to reality to AI, workplace pensions, business confidence and everything in between, this year's Thrive EDIT has helped members navigate one of the busiest periods in Gibraltar's recent history. Before we take a short summer break, Editor David Revagliatte looks back at the stories that shaped the year and thanks readers for joining us on the journey.
Could Gibraltar be missing a golden opportunity? GFSB Board Director Brian Ross believes the answer is yes. In this thought-provoking opinion piece, he argues that Gibraltar should consider a residency route for financially self-sufficient individuals, attracting experienced people with the wealth, expertise and international networks to strengthen our economy. Could this be the next step in keeping Gibraltar competitive?
Education
Growing Beyond the Owner
For many SMEs, the success of the business has been built on the expertise, relationships and commitment of its owner. This entrepreneurial approach has been instrumental in the growth of many of Gibraltar's successful businesses. However, as organisations develop, dependence on a single individual can become a strategic risk.