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Pentasia
Candidate Guide: Relocating to Gibraltar
Candidate Guide
Relocating
to Gibraltar
»» Introducing ‘The Rock’
»» Spanish lifestyle benefits
»» Where to live: area profiles
»» Money, travel, health...
pentasia.com
t: +44 (0)1737 785 970
e: [email protected]
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Pentasia
Candidate Guide: Relocating to Gibraltar
A British Overseas Territory where
business is booming
1 THE BENEFITS OF
WORKING IN GIBRALTAR
Working in Gibraltar can, for many, represent
an excellent career choice. Buoyant despite
the background of Brexit, companies continue
to grow, and the job market is thriving.
Certainly, there are ample career opportunities
for those considering a new working life in the
Spanish sun.
Gibraltar continues to offer a lucrative base
for business. The territory has a tax system
that is more attractive for many companies
and individuals than mainland UK. As a
consequence, an increasing number of
professional organisations in certain sectors
have moved to Gibraltar.
Probably the best example of this trend is the
online gaming industry – a field we at Pentasia
know well. But there are lots of opportunities
in the financial, IT, Legal and banking sectors
for qualified and experienced candidates.
pentasia.com
t: +44 (0)1737 785 970
e: [email protected]
Whether you choose to live in Gibraltar itself,
or one of the nearby Spanish coastal towns,
relocation to this area is an excellent choice
for those wanting a fantastic lifestyle change.
2 GEOGRAPHY
Gibraltar, formed of Jurassic limestone, juts
out from Spain’s South cost into the Western
entrance to the Mediterranean. Known as
Key benefits at a glance:
»» Excellent careers for English speaking
professionals, with little or no
compromise on salaries compared to
the UK.
»» Lower income tax.
»» Low cost of renting and buying
accommodation in Spain compared
to the UK (even accounting for the
addition of a swimming pool!)
»» Approximately 300 days of sunshine
per year.
»» Glorious beaches stretched across the
Costa del Sol and Cadiz.
»» Cosmopolitan Marbella and Puerto
Banus nearby.
»» Weekend skiing in Sierra Nevada.
»» Relaxed, sociable and enjoyable way
of life.
»» Huge variety of restaurants, quality
fresh food and wine.
»» Easily accessible to the rest of Europe
with regular and low cost flights from
Malaga and Gibraltar.
»» Duty Free Alcohol and Tobacco in
Gibraltar.
Did you know?
Gibraltar is still part of
the EU (via the UK)
but not subject to all
its policies.
Image: Sailing boats moored at Queensway quay marina.
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Pentasia
Candidate Guide: Relocating to Gibraltar
‘the rock’, Gibraltar is 5km (3 miles) long.
Its the highest point is 426m (1,400ft)
above sea level. An internal self-governing
British Crown Colony, Gibraltar has given
its name to the Bay and the Straits which
it overlooks. Spain lies to the North and
West, and Morocco – across the water – is
just 26km (16 miles) to the South.
3 CLIMATE
Gibraltar enjoys an average of 300 days
sunshine a year: a truly Mediterranean
climate. A warm, dry summer alternates
with a mild wet winter. The sub-tropical sun
of North Africa is tempered by gentle sea
breezes.
In summer, temperatures can rise well
above 30°C. January daytime temperatures
usually sit around 16°C to 18°C - still quite
possible to top up a tan. Rainfall is mostly
limited to early or late in the year, and snow
and frost is extremely rare in Gibraltar.
Annual rainfall averages 899 millimetres,
however year to year fluctuations are high.
A climatic phenomenon very typical of the
Rock is the famous Levanter cloud. This is
a dense cloud cover that forms on the top
of the Rock when humid easterly winds are
deflected upwards along the sheer face of
its eastern side.
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4 CURRENCY
While Gibraltar produces its own notes
and coins, the monetary unit of Gibraltar
is actually UK Sterling. Sterling currency
Notes issued by the Bank of England are
therefore legal tender and in circulation in
Gibraltar, alongside the local note issues.
5 HEALTHCARE
The Gibraltar Health Authority (GHA)
operates a Group Practice medical scheme
whereby contributors to the system receive
free health benefits. Should you become a
contributor, all your medical needs will be
met either on the Rock itself, or by providers
across the border which are arranged by the
scheme.
6 RESIDENCE & WORK
PERMITS
Only Gibraltarians and British citizens are
allowed to live and work in Gibraltar without
a residence permit. Nationals from other
EU member states are issued residence
permits upon providing proof that they will
not become a burden to the state. Non-EU
citizens will find it more difficult to obtain a
residence permit in Gibraltar as they must
first produce a work contract, and that can
only be issued if the employer can prove that
no Gibraltarian or EU citizen is able or willing
to do the job.
7 COST OF LIVING
Gibraltar is not a part of the customs union
and therefore has duty free shopping and
does not charge VAT. Cigarettes, alcohol, gas
and perfumes are only some items which are
bought by Spaniards and other nationalities
because of the low price.
Despite the tax benefits, the cost of living can
be compared the UK. Water and electricity
charges are higher than costs elsewhere,
and property prices are much higher than
those in neighbouring Spain.
Despite the close trading links between
the UK and Gibraltar, the Rock’s proximity
to Spain and its economic environment
also influences Gibraltar’s cost of living.
Image: Gibraltar’s main shopping street.
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Pentasia
Candidate Guide: Relocating to Gibraltar
Live on the rock, or commute
across the Spanish border
8 PERSONAL INCOME
TAX LEVELS 2015/16
Individuals are charged on their taxable
income which is arrived at by deducting
personal and other allowances from
the assessable income at these rates:
Allowances-based system:
First £4,000 - 14%
Next £16,000 - 17%
Balance – 39%
Gross-income-based (£25,000+):
First £17,000 – 16%
Next £8,000 – 19%
Next £15,000 – 25%
Next £65,000 – 28%
Next £395,000 – 25%
Next £200,000 – 18%
Balance – 5%
pentasia.com
t: +44 (0)1737 785 970
e: [email protected]
Ordinary Personal Tax Allowances:
Single starts paying at £3,215
Spouse allowance £3,215
One Parent Family £5,290
9 WHERE TO LIVE...
Some people are lucky enough to secure a job in Gibraltar
before they commit to relocating and many prospective
employers offer relocation packages with free shortterm accommodation. However, if you are making your
own arrangements it is advisable to consider your living
location carefully.
...in Gibraltar
Gibraltar has much in common with its next door neighbour
Southern Spain, but it also has a fascinating history of
its own, as well as special climatic conditions, its own
particular geography, and a unique culture. The fact that
Gibraltar is a self-governing British Crown Dependency
makes it a popular choice for expats. However, living in
Gibraltar can be expensive, with an average 2 bedroom
flat costing between £1,000 and £1,500 per month to rent.
Schools: English curriculum, free to Gibraltar residents.
Fees of around £3,000 / term apply to non-residents.
Healthcare: Free healthcare for those employed and
paying tax in Gibraltar. Entitlement and dependents
details via Gibraltar Health Authority (GHA): gha.gi/
patients-visitors
...in Spain
For many, the option of working in Gibraltar but living
in Spain is preferable. Yes, there is a commute across
the border to contend with. However, this is offset by
lower house prices. Plus, the arrangement allows you to
experience the culture, food and language of Spain but
Quick
comparison...
GIBRALTAR
Language: English
Currency: £ Pounds sterling
Rental prices (guidelines):
1 Bed: £1000+
3 Bed: £2000+
Cost of living:
Cappuccino: £2.00
Restaurant meal for 2: £70
Monthly utilities: £127
SPAIN
Language: Spanish
Currency: € Euros
Rental prices (guidelines):
1 Bed: £400+ (450€)
3 Bed: £700+ (800€)
Cost of living:
Cappuccino: £1.40
Restaurant meal for 2: £32
Monthly utilities: £106
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Pentasia
Candidate Guide: Relocating to Gibraltar
Choose the location that matches
your lifestyle and your budget
work in the vibrant business community of
Gibraltar. To give you a rough idea of living
costs, each of the location overviews below
includes an estimated cost of a two bedroom
apartment.
central areas of Gibraltar. This commercial/
industrial district is packed with local shops
and amenities, whilst still being accessible to
the more cosmopolitan and picturesque towns
further along the coast.
Schools: Spanish-speaking, free to Spanish
residents. Some offer assistance to nonSpanish speaking children. International
schools available in Sotogrande, Marbella
and Malaga.
Typically the cost of accommodation is lower
than in Gibraltar but slightly higher than the
regional average due to its convenient location
which saves Gibraltarian workers the expense
of car ownership. A typical two bedroom flat
would cost €600 to €800 per month.
Healthcare: Reciprocal free healthcare for
those employed and paying tax in Gibraltar.
Details: gha.gi/patients-visitors
LOCATIONS
Santa Margarita
Santa Margarita is an ideal place to live with a
family. It’s the largest residential development
in the region and is quiet and friendly. The
properties are typically Mediterranean in
style with spacious gardens and magnificent
views of the Strait of Gibraltar, surrounded by
carefully maintained green areas. The border
is either 10 minutes drive or a vigorous 20
minute walk away, or there’s a frequent bus
service. Rent of around €600 to €800 per
month would secure a house here.
Sotogrande
pentasia.com
t: +44 (0)1737 785 970
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Image: La Linea beach, with views of the rock.
La Linea
La Linea is just over the border from Gibraltar
and is a convenient choice for relocation: it’s
just 10-20 minutes walking distance to the
Sotogrande is an exclusive, naturally beautiful
area favoured by top executives, the rich and
famous. Rents are high here – a two bedroom
apartment can range from €900 to €2,000 per
month (including shared pool, of course.)
Stunning sports facilities, golf courses, polo
Image: The luxury lifestyle in Sotogrande.
fields and a famous marina on your
doorstep add to Sotogrande’s benefits,
if your salary allows. Sotogrande is a 20
minute commute from Gibraltar.
Manilva
Manilva is 30 minutes drive to the East
of Gibraltar and is a surprisingly underdeveloped and picturesque part of the
Costa del Sol. You can live in the pretty
white village of Manilva, the fishing port of
Sabinillas or the lively marina of Duquesa
where there are lots of places to eat, drink
and enjoy the Spanish lifestyle.
As this is a traditional Spanish area, you’ll
only pay €400 to €600 per month to rent a
two bedroom apartment, usually including
a shared pool. Your salary will certainly
stretch a lot further here.
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Pentasia
Candidate Guide: Relocating to Gibraltar
and Spanish newspapers, websites, and on
many company intranet sites. There are also
budget hotels and B&B´s in La Linea which
can offer temporary accommodation from
approximately £25 per night.
10 GETTING THERE
Flying
Image: Estepona’s city hall.
Estepona
Estepona is a pretty seaside town with
fantastic wide beaches and a Spanish smalltown character. There are lots of amenities,
bars, cafes and restaurants serving good
Spanish food at reasonable prices as well
as smart beach bars and big supermarkets
selling international brands.
Estepona is a great choice for those with
children as it’s a very family-friendly place.
A 40 minute commute from Gibraltar, rental
prices for a 2 bedroom apartment here range
from €450 to €800 per month, usually including
a shared pool.
Short-Term Rentals
pentasia.com
t: +44 (0)1737 785 970
e: [email protected]
There are lots of other options for
accommodation including private villas,
houses, townhouses and duplex apartments.
Also, on the other end of the scale, many
people choose to share with friends or new
colleagues or rent a room, helping to save
costs in the first few months of relocation.
Flat Shares are advertised in local Gibraltar
Gibraltar is easily accessible by air through
both Gibraltar Airport, or nearby Malaga
Airport – around an hour and a half away.
British Airways and Easyjet operate daily
flights into Gibraltar from London Gatwick
while Monarch fly from both London Luton and
Manchester. Malaga is one of Spain’s busiest
airports and is serviced by a range of airlines
including Ryanair.
Driving
Travelling by car from the UK or elsewhere
is a very realistic option. Ferries arrive at
Santander and Bilbao, and the stunning drive
down through Spain takes approximately 12
hours. If you choose to bring your car over, the
law requires you register the car with Spanish
number plates within 6 months.
If you are buying a car in Spain then you will
first need to provide one of the following:
• An official residency card (Tarjeta de
Residencia.)
• Proof that you are a Spanish home owner
(by showing title deeds.)
• A rental contract for a duration of
minimum one year or An NIE/NIF number
(Foreigner’s Identification Number) in
Spain.
Did you know?
In true British fashion,
Gibraltar has its own
Marks & Spencer
store.
Image: Gibraltar airport’s runway,
extending into the Mediterranean.
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Pentasia
Candidate Guide: Relocating to Gibraltar
Spain’s strategic landing-point,
named after its conqueror
11 GIBRALTAR:
BACKGROUND INFO
Gibraltar’s name derives from Gibel Tariq
(Tariq’s mountain), itself named after Tariq Ibn
Zeyad, who led the eight-century conquest
of Spain. Tariq brought a combined force of
Arabs and Berbers over the crossing from
Africa.
Gibraltar’s unusual status was not acquired
until almost 1000 years later, long after the
Islamic invaders had been driven out by the
Spanish. Its formation was a consequence of
the 1713 Treaty of Utrecht which brought to
an end the War of the Spanish Succession
and gave the territory to Britain. The British
interpretation of the treaty holds that the
territory was ceded to them indefinitely. The
presence of a foreign-owned mini-state on
the Spanish mainland has been an irritant to
Anglo-Spanish relations ever since.
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e: [email protected]
The current Spanish position was first outlined
by Felipe González, Spain’s socialist Premier,
during the 1980s. González suggestion for
joint Anglo-Spanish sovereignty of Gibraltar
has since been refined by successive
Spanish governments, allowing for possible
EU or NATO involvement. The British have no
major objection, in principle, to the Spanish
recovering full sovereignty over the territory
- provided they are guaranteed continued
access to its military base facilities.
Gibraltarians, however, are less enthused. In
response to the latest round of talks between
London and Madrid which began in 2001 and
explored in detail possible joint sovereignty
models the Gibraltar government, led by Peter
Caruana, organized a referendum to assess
the popular mood. Taking place in November
2002 - as expected, it returned a huge
majority in favour of the status quo.
A tourist hotspot
Known as ‘the rock’, Gibraltar contains 143
caves, over 48km (30 miles) of road and
miles of tunnels. From rock touring, to sailing,
diving, fishing and bird watching, visitors will
be pleasantly surprised with the diverse range
of attractions on offer in Gibraltar.
Located at the southernmost tip of the Iberian
Peninsula, where Europe meets Africa, visitors
are also assured of breath-taking scenery,
wildlife and architecture, that captures the
unique flavour of this Mediterranean city. As
a VAT-free jurisdiction, Gibraltar’s popularity
with visitors is further enhanced by its value
added shopping experience in famed Main
Street.
For jobs in Gibraltar and relocation advice
visit pentasia.com
Main image: Gibraltar’s towering Cable Car.
Bottom image: Soldiers of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment.