Guide to Gibraltar Residency
Provided by Gibro Group
A home for prosperity
Gibraltar’s low tax regime and Mediterranean lifestyle make Gibraltar an attractive base for those wishing to relocate abroad. This guide provides information on the British Overseas Territory and outlines three of the main residency options available.
Established in 1975, the Gibro Group provides wealth management solutions for clients. Through its fully independent associated businesses, the Gibro Group provides residency services including transferring assets, taxes, permits, property, domiciling of corporate vehicles and the setting up of trusts.
“Our client offering is unique and has developed throughout the years into what is now a dynamic, ever-evolving, client-focused “boutique” brand. Gibraltar has long served as a home to individuals and businesses from across the world. We are internationally known for our excellent reputation, standards of integrity and above all, access to a pool of experienced professional advisers who offer an unrivalled level of support.”
Stuart Rodriguez LLB, MA, CEO.
Why Gibraltar?
1: Low tax jurisdiction
Gibraltar has a low tax regime and has multiple Information Exchange Agreements in place making it a reputable jurisdiction. Individuals and companies pay income tax on local earnings, but not on any foreign income.
Gibraltar’s corporate tax rate is 12.5% on profits that accrue or derive in Gibraltar. A company is considered resident if its administration and operation is controlled from inside Gibraltar. In addition to the low base rate, there are many other tax advantages to relocating to or setting up a new business in Gibraltar. Residents of Gibraltar pay no:
- Inheritance tax,
- Gift tax
- Capital Gains tax
- Wealth taxes
- Tax on interest income or income derived from listed securities.
2: UK-based Legal system and regulatory environment
Gibraltar’s legal system is based on the common law and statute law of England. In 1962 the English Law (Application) Ordinance was passed declaring the extent to which English law is in force in Gibraltar.
The Financial Services Commission (FSC) is the statutory body responsible for the regulation of the financial services industry in Gibraltar. The FSC is required by statute to match the UK’s robust standards.
3: Self-government and stable economy
Through its constitution, Gibraltar enjoys self-governance. Its stable economy has adapted and diversified over the last three decades with its stable political environment. Today, the Rock’s economy is driven by an established financial and professional services industry as well as strong maritime, gaming and tourism sectors.
4: Excellent quality of life
Gibraltar’s year-round sunshine make it a good choice if you enjoy outdoor activities like going to the beach, hikes and dining al-fresco. English is the official language spoken here and you can expect more familiarities with the UK’s education, legal and healthcare systems.
There are a number of residency options open to those wishing to relocate to Gibraltar. The Gibro Group will guide you along your move to Gibraltar.
Eligibility for Cat 2 status
In order to qualify for Category 2 residency in Gibraltar, you must meet the requirements set by the Government of Gibraltar. These include:
- You must have a minimum of £2m in verifiable assets (Family income could be included).
- The rental or purchase of a qualifying residential property in Gibraltar
- You must have valid private medical insurance
- You cannot have been resident in Gibraltar for five years prior to your application
In addition to the above, you will be asked for supporting documents including a CV, reference letters and certified copies of certain documents.
Higher Executive Possessing Specialist Skills (HEPSS)
Highly-skilled executives who relocate to Gibraltar for work have some tax advantages under the Rock’s Higher Executive Possessing Specialist Skills (HEPSS) scheme.
The HEPSS scheme is for those who earn more than £160,000 per year and possess specialist skills that contribute to the growth and development of Gibraltar’s economy. Specialist skills are not limited to a particular sector, but individuals must hold an Executive or Senior Management position in Gibraltar.
Some of the characteristics of Gibraltar’s HEPSS scheme are:
- Qualifying individuals must earn more than £160,000 per year
- Assessable income is capped at £160,000 resulting in an annual tax liability of £43,140 (pro rata)
- Tax is calculated under Gibraltar’s Gross Income Based (GIB) system
- Individuals must rent or purchase a qualifying residential property in Gibraltar
- You must not have resided in Gibraltar
It is also worth noting that residents of Gibraltar enjoy additional fiscal advantages such as zero:
- Inheritance tax,
- Gift tax
- Capital Gains tax
- Wealth taxes
- Tax on interest income
Moving your business to Gibraltar
Companies are often drawn to Gibraltar by its low base rate of Corporation Tax, but the advantages of relocating a business to Gibraltar go far beyond that. Some benefits include:
- A quality low-tax jurisdiction with a profit oriented capital base at low levels of corporate tax, all in a stable currency (GBP) with few restrictions in moving capital or repatriating dividends
- A legal system modelled on the English structure and a robust regulatory framework
- Cutting edge office spaces, modern services and workspace
One of Europe’s most advanced fibre-optic communications networks, offering quality solutions for businesses - An international airport with daily scheduled flights to the UK, in conjunction with proximity to Spanish regional airports at Malaga, Seville and Jerez
- A multi-skilled, suitably qualified workforce with training assistance to update skills as and when needed;
- A harmonious, multicultural and English-speaking environment, as favoured by most international businesses, providing pivotal access to regional markets in Mediterranean Europe and North Africa (the majority of people in Gibraltar are at least bilingual);
How we can help
We can assist you with moving your business to Gibraltar. Through an initial meeting to identify your current setup and requirements, we will guide you through the process and ensure it runs smoothly.
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