The GFSB has expressed concern about the Government’s recent suspension of residency applications.

A statement continued:

“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. 

“The Gibraltar Federation of Small Businesses (GFSB) has written to the Government expressing its concern and seeking clarification regarding yesterday’s announcement. The decision, described as a “temporary” measure, appears to have been introduced without prior consultation or a clear indication of its duration. While the GFSB appreciates that the Government’s intention is to prevent potential abuse of the system, this sudden change has generated significant uncertainty among its members, particularly those in sectors such as real estate, financial services, hospitality and gaming, which rely heavily on skilled workers from the EEA and UK. This announcement comes as a surprising move just two weeks before the GIBLDN25 Gibraltar Business Conference in London on 21 October, an event which the GFSB and other business stakeholders have been actively supporting. Recent Government press releases list that the purpose of GIBLDN25 is to showcase Gibraltar as a leading business destination, emphasising opportunities arising from the anticipated UK EU Treaty and promoting Gibraltar as a place to do business, relocate and invest. 

“In this context, the introduction of restrictions on new residency applications appears contrary to the broader message of growth that has underpinned Gibraltar’s post Brexit strategy, particularly the understood benefits relating to increased Gibraltar residency and talent attraction. 

"The GFSB Board has written to Government for more details, requesting a fuller understanding of the rationale behind this decision, including:

— The specific circumstances necessitating an immediate suspension of new residency applications; 

— The expected timeframe or criteria for lifting the suspension; 

— The wider context, and what plans there are for clear routes to residency, and what the criteria will be; and 

— How the measure aligns with Gibraltar’s broader economic and business objectives, including efforts to attract investment and skilled labour. 

“The GFSB believe transparency and early engagement on such matters are essential to maintaining confidence within the business community and to ensuring consistency 

“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 member community page or email [email protected]"