Immigration: Moving to Guernsey
by Default Author on August 15, 2023
Are you looking into making a move to Guernsey? In this blog, our team goes through what to expect when moving to Guernsey so that you can clearly understand what is and is not possible. Guernsey is an incredible place to work and live, so it's no wonder many people wish to call the island home. As a result, regulations have been implemented to manage population growth and safeguard the local population so that they are given ample opportunity before employers can look to import talent.
This article will give you a breakdown of the immigration process and answer a few frequently asked questions that our recruitment team receive when an individual is looking to move to Guernsey.
Understanding the Basics
It’s worth noting that in Guernsey, they treat the right to enter and the right to work separately, meaning that you may be required to obtain both a UK visa as well as an employment permit, depending on your nationality.
Employment Permit
If you do not have the right to work via the above means, then you must have permission to take employment in the Bailiwick of Guernsey by way of an employment permit. An employment permit is usually issued as a joint permit from the Population Management Employment Permit system, we talk about this later in this article.
This policy is designed to protect the local Guernsey employment pool. It also ensures that Employment Permits are granted to individuals who meet the skills and qualifications for specific roles where a labour shortage has been identified.
Employment Permit Process
As you have learned in this article, Guernsey has a complex structure relating to its residency and employment rights. Employment permits are granted to people invited to live in Guernsey because of their employment skills or because Guernsey needs more people with a specific skill set. Employment permits can only be applied for by your employer on your behalf. The Employment Permit Policy details a list of roles selected as being in short local supply. This helps employers know who and for what roles they can make Employment Permit applications.
Documents You Will Need
- A fully completed employment permit application.โฏ
- A clean police clearance certificate - A certified and signed police clearance certificate from your home district or last place of residence.โฏ
- Medical Certificates – If you are moving to Guernsey for more than six months and are a resident of a country listed on the UK Home Office website, you will need to have a test for tuberculosis.
- Proof of permit from the Population Management Office
- Copies of your professional qualifications and education.โฏ
- Copy of applicant's signature/photo page of a valid passport
- References on company letterhead, preferably in English
What Happens Next?
If the application is approved, a letter is sent to your new employer notifying them of the acceptance and terms and conditions upon which you may work. Your employer would then relay this information to you so that you may plan the rest of your relocation and move to Guernsey. You need this approval letter for when you arrive at the airport; you will not be allowed entry while your permit is still processing, so it is essential to stay in contact with your employer and the status of your application.โฏ
Right to Reside
Population Management Law
In addition to having valid clearance to enter Guernsey and wishing to live and work here, you must also hold a certificate or permit issued under the Population Management Law, which confirms your right to live and work in Guernsey.
The Population Management Law regulates the size and makeup of Guernsey's population. The law ensures that the islands are diverse in supporting the economy and community. It also supports local businesses by providing permits designed for specific jobs. It determines who can live in certain accommodations, as Guernsey's properties are split into two housing markets, the local market and the open market.
Everyone working and living in Guernsey requires a permit or certificate issued by the Population Management Office under the Population Management Law. These paperless permits and certificates allow people the right to live and work in Guernsey alongside immigration clearance from the Guernsey Border Agency.
important considerations
Short-Term Employment Permit (STEP)
For STEP individuals, there are restrictions regarding accommodation options where the employee can live in the local or open market housing, but the accommodation must be shared with unrelated adults and cannot accommodate dependents.
Long-Term Employment Permit (LTEP)
For LTEP individuals, there is an
unrestricted right to occupy local market or open market accommodation and to house immediate family members.
If you are considering Guernsey as your new home, you are in good hands with our team here at CML. We are experienced recruiters here to help you navigate Guernsey’s employment market. Register today to speak to our team about how we can assist with the next step in your career journey.โฏ
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