Things You Need To Know Before Moving To Jersey

Moving to Jersey: Who Can Live Here and What Are the Rules?

Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands located between England and France. It is a self-governing dependency of the British Crown and has its own immigration rules separate from the UK. Here is what you need to know about moving to Jersey:

Can UK Citizens Live in Jersey?

Yes, British citizens have the automatic right to live and work in Jersey without any immigration restrictions. This also applies to Irish citizens under the Common Travel Area arrangements between the UK, Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man. 

As a British citizen, you can move to Jersey and take up employment without the need for any work permits or visas. You are free to live permanently on the island if you wish.

If you're moving to Jersey from the UK, you don't need to apply for a visa or notify immigration authorities. You can simply arrive in Jersey by air or sea and begin living and working here. Your UK passport is all you need.

What About Citizens of EU Countries?

Citizens of EU and EEA member states also have the right to live and work in Jersey without immigration controls if you are a family member of an EU/EEA passport holder who holds settled or pre-settled status . This includes citizens of EU countries like France, Germany, Poland etc. as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. 

Swiss citizens also have similar freedom of movement rights in Jersey.

All non-British or Irish nationals, also require immigration permission to visit, work, study or settle in the Jersey as set out in the section below.

Can Non-British and Non-EU Citizens Move to Jersey?

For citizens outside of the EU/EEA area and Switzerland, immigration controls apply and they will need permission to reside long-term in Jersey.

There are a few main options:

Work permit - an employer can sponsor someone for an essential skilled role they cannot fill locally. The work permit is temporary but can lead to permanent settlement if you live in Jersey for 5 years.

Spouse visa - those married to British citizens or permanent Jersey residents can apply for a spouse visa. This allows them to live and work on the island with their partner.

Investor/business visa - for high-net-worth individuals who invest £2 million or more in Jersey or set up a business. 

Student visa - for those admitted to accredited educational institutions in Jersey. Allows part-time work up to 20 hours per week.

Overall the options are more limited than the UK but Jersey does welcome skilled workers in particular shortage occupations. Jobs like finance, law, accounting, medicine, teaching, and technology roles are in demand.

If you have an offer from a Jersey employer, they can assist you with obtaining the required work permit or visa before relocating. 

What About Pets and Moving Possessions?

Bringing pets from the UK, Channel Islands or the EU is straightforward with no quarantine. In other countries, the rules are stricter under the Pet Travel Scheme.

For moving your personal possessions, up to £3,000 worth of household goods are customs duty-free. Anything above that is subject to import duties which can be costly, so plan appropriately. Vehicles also have restrictions.

Use a reputable international removal company to assist with shipping your belongings to Jersey from overseas. They can advise on customs regulations. 

Jersey's immigration rules welcome British, Irish and EU citizens but others require visas and permits. Check you have the right to live in Jersey before relocating from outside the EU. Job openings in shortage occupations provide the best opportunities.

Jersey's Appeal for Home Buyers

In recent years, Jersey has become an increasingly attractive destination for those looking to purchase a home or relocate. Some key reasons why Jersey's popularity is growing among home buyers:

• Jersey offers political and economic stability as a self-governing British dependency unaffected by Brexit. This provides confidence for buyers.

• The island has low taxes including no capital gains tax, making it fiscally appealing. Jersey's standard of living is high.

• Jersey has stunning natural scenery and beaches yet also financial services jobs, infrastructure, and connectivity to the UK and Europe. An enviable lifestyle.

• House prices are high but have risen less sharply than parts of the UK like London. Mortgages are available at reasonable interest rates.

• The island is family-friendly with low crime rates, good schools, outdoor activities, and community spirit. An attractive place to put down roots.

• Jersey offers an English-speaking base well situated between the UK and France with transport links. Appealing to British and international buyers alike.

With its entrepot history as a trading hub, Jersey is seen as a safe, stable jurisdiction to invest in property. And with the island's unmatched quality of life, demand for homes in Jersey is likely to continue rising.

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In short, Jersey is a summer paradise that leaves visitors captivated by its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you prefer to relax on the pristine beaches, embark on coastal adventures, or immerse yourself in the island's fascinating past, Jersey has something for everyone.

If you are interested in the property for sale or property for rent that we advertise in Jersey, there are plenty of charming properties for you to choose from! From 1-bed to larger properties and a price range of £159,500 to £22,000,000, we have plenty of options that are suitable for an assortment of budgets.