The Guernsey Housing Laws are the key issue. As you would imagine with a small Island with limited space, not everyone can move to the Island and take up residence.

 

Population controls are designed to limit the population to a sustainable level which currently is around  60,000 people. The way the Island does this is to limit the number of people who move to the Island by using a licence system.

 

While it is not illegal for anyone to own property on the Island, you can't live in it unless you are a locally qualified resident, you have a licence to live in Local Market accommodation or you rent or buy Open Market accommodation.

 

Just under 10% of the residential units on the Island are designated Open Market. This means they were placed on the Open Market Register many years ago. These Open Market properties are available to all UK and European Residents to purchase and occupy without resitriction.

 

As no additional Open Market properties are allowed to be added to the Register, these properties command a premium on the Island. Prices start at around £850,000.

 

Licences are issued to people who are considered essential to the well being of the island. Essentiality is usually judged on the type of job they are going to perform on the Island or in certain circumstances they could be granted because of their potential to employ staff or generate income for the Island.

 

Licences are normally time limited. Short term licences are granted in certain industries, while 3 and 5 year licences are given for skilled positions which cannot be filled locally because of a shortage of trained staff. Longer term licences can be granted but these are normally a step towards becoming local because if you live here under licence for 15 years you may no longer need a licence.

 

The Housing Department are responsible for the laws concerning Housing Licences and the above is provided for rough guidance only. You should visit the Housing Department web site on www.gov.gg for full and precise information on this topic. You can also call them on Guernsey (01481) 715790 or email them housing.control@gov.gg to discuss your circumstances.

 

 

 

As Guernsey is not part of the UK or Europe, there are many differences between living here and on the mainland. Island life isn't for everyone and we would urge you to be sure about your decision before making your move.

 

Many of the UK chains you might expect to see, are not on Guernsey, so shopping choice can be limited. However there are many excellent local retail brands available on Guernsey.

 

We have unique driving rules and the roads are small. If you bring your car with you, it will need a new number plate and you will need to ensure your insurance covers driving in the Islands.

 

You won't be voting for a political party at the next election as in Guernsey, each candidate for the States of Deliberation, our Government, stands on their own mandate and there is no party politics.

 

You will have £1 notes in your pocket as they are still legal currency in Guernsey and we can't play the National Lottery but we do have our own small local version.

 

You will find the Islanders friendly and hospitable, schools are wonderful and the island is incredibly safe. Commute times are minutes rather than hours which means you can live your life to the full. You can leave your place of work and be on the golf course, in your boat or be walking the clifs or beaches in minutes making sure you waste nothing of your day.

 

Tax is a flat 20% on personal income, with allowances, so you know exactly what you owe.

 

The Health service is great, it isn't the NHS, but you will pay for your Dentist and your eye tests.

 

Suffice to say we are different and you need to do your research and be sure the island is for you before making any life changing decisions.