Gibraltar is to introduce a new residency route for financially self-sufficient people aged over 55, Minister for Business Gemma Arias-Vasquez announced at Tuesday evening's GibLink London event.

The announcement represents an important development in Gibraltar's new residency framework, opening the door once again to people wishing to make Gibraltar their home in retirement or later life, without necessarily qualifying for Category 2 status or taking up employment.

Speaking to an audience of business leaders, professionals and potential investors in London, the Minister confirmed that the Government will amend its residency regulations to accommodate applicants aged over 55 who are entirely financially self-sufficient.

Under the proposed arrangements, applicants will be required to:

• Hold private medical insurance.

• Make a financial contribution to Gibraltar's healthcare system.

• Spend at least six months each year living in Gibraltar.

The Minister confirmed that the amendments will be published by the end of October, following further consultation. The detailed eligibility criteria, including any financial thresholds, have yet to be announced.

The news follows the introduction of Gibraltar's new residency framework in July 2026, which placed greater emphasis on employment, business activity and economic contribution. The changes had raised concerns about the ability of financially independent people over 55 to relocate to Gibraltar unless they qualified under the existing Category 2 arrangements.

The Minister acknowledged the appeal of Gibraltar to those seeking to spend the next chapter of their lives here, highlighting its sunshine, safety, sense of community and the opportunities created by the new treaty arrangements with the European Union.

"This new route will allow them to make that move," she told the audience. Full speech.

The announcement is particularly welcome for Gibraltar's property market, where financially independent purchasers have traditionally represented an important source of demand, particularly for higher value homes.

The Minister also confirmed that draft guidance on the application of the wider residency rules had been circulated to stakeholders who had participated in consultations. This should provide greater clarity for businesses seeking to relocate employees and establish operations in Gibraltar.

Chestertons proud to support GibLink London

Chestertons Gibraltar was delighted to be a Gold Sponsor of GibLink London, supporting an event dedicated to promoting Gibraltar as a destination for business, investment and relocation.

Being part of the effort to sell Gibraltar's story to a London audience was particularly rewarding at a time when the new treaty arrangements are creating fresh opportunities for the Rock.

We were equally delighted to hear the Minister's announcement on over 55s residency, an issue which Chestertons has consistently raised in discussions about the new framework.

The ability to welcome financially independent people who wish to make Gibraltar their genuine home, contribute to the local economy and become part of our community is an important element of Gibraltar's wider appeal.

The proposed six month residence requirement also reinforces the distinction between genuine residents and those seeking a residency status without establishing a meaningful connection to Gibraltar.

There is still detail to be clarified, particularly around the financial eligibility criteria and the required contribution to healthcare. Nevertheless, the announcement provides welcome reassurance to prospective residents who had feared that Gibraltar was no longer an option for them.

For Chestertons, the combination of the new treaty arrangements, greater certainty for businesses and the proposed reopening of residency to financially independent over 55s provides a positive message to take back to our international clients.

Gibraltar remains open for business, and increasingly, open to those wishing to make it their home.