About Gibraltar

Gibraltar is a self-governing, modern and vibrant British Overseas Territory, situated at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, overlooking Morocco and guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. It has an area of seven square kilometres and shares a land border with Spain. 

The Rock of Gibraltar is the major landmark of the region and at its foot is the densely populated city area, home to over 38,000 Gibraltarians and other nationalities.

Its privileged location, rich history and successful economy has gifted Gibraltar with an influence and exposure that is disproportionate to its small size and population. But despite its economic prosperity and highly diversified economy spanning financial services, e-gaming, shipping, and tourism, it is precisely that modest size that is part of its appeal to investors and other professionals: Speed to market, access to key decision-makers and a motivated and approachable regulator are some of the factors that make Gibraltar an attractive jurisdiction for new and established businesses. 

Its adaptability and pioneering approach has made the Rock a global leader in the e-gaming industry as well as a prime hub for the establishment of crypto asset and DLT entrepreneurs.

While its warm climate and Mediterranean lifestyle sets it apart, Gibraltar continues to enjoy a close relationship with the United Kingdom; constitutionally and legally, as well as culturally. The development of the financial services sector in Gibraltar has been facilitated by its location, favourable tax regime, stable government, strong links with both the United Kingdom and European Union, no exchange controls, a common law system, strong focus on integrity and the availability of a well-qualified labour force and exceptional infrastructure.

Regulation of financial services

The financial services sector in Gibraltar is regulated by the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission (GFSC). The GFSC supervises all Gibraltar banks, investment businesses, insurance companies and corporate service providers. Offshore company management licences in Gibraltar are only issued to firms and individuals who have satisfied extremely stringent professional, legal, and financial requirements.

Corporate taxation

Gibraltar offers a compelling tax package with some of the tax benefits being no VAT, no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax, no wealth tax, no estate duty and no tax on certain types of investment income.

There are also special tax benefits available to High-Net-Worth individuals and skilled professionals.

Strong links with, and access to, the UK and EU

While Gibraltar exited the European Union at the same time as the United Kingdom, the Rock’s financial services providers enjoy continued access arrangements to the UK. This reciprocal market access between the UK and Gibraltar is unique and not otherwise available to any other UK Overseas Territory or Dependency. Yet another selling point.

And ironically, despite Brexit, Gibraltar is soon set to enjoy an increased and improved relationship with the EU that in some instances extends beyond the rights it enjoyed while it formed part of the European Union. With a political agreement now in place and a UK/EU Treaty set to be finalised imminently, Gibraltar will be granted Schengen area access and other benefits, including in respect of movement of goods and people into and across the continent. Once the Treaty comes into force, which is currently estimated to happen during 2026, Gibraltar and the surrounding region is expected to enjoy even greater economic and lifestyle benefits.

Gibraltar is already a hugely attractive jurisdiction for businesses and investors. Its future is set to be even more positive.