The Immigration (EU Exit) Regulations 2025 - Temporary Residency Changes

The Immigration (EU Exit) Regulations 2025 were published on 6 October 2025, temporarily suspending new applications for residency rights for EEA nationals (including British national) in Gibraltar. This measure seeks to manage an exceptional influx of EEA nationals (including British nationals) wishing to reside in Gibraltar. It provides a temporary control mechanism while allowing issuing residence documents in limited, and justified cases.

Key Points:

•    Effective Date:  6 October 2025, the date of its publication.

•    Amendment Introduced: A new section 55NA is inserted into the Immigration, Asylum and Refugee Act.

•   Effect of the Amendment Introduced: The right of EEA nationals (including British nationals) to reside in Gibraltar for more than 3 months is suspended unless they hold one of the following by 6 October 2025:

i. A registration certificate;
ii. A residence card;
iii. A document certifying permanent residence;
iv. A permanent residence card. 

•    Exemptions: This suspension does not apply to individuals who have submitted an application for any of the aforementioned documents before 6 October 2025 and are awaiting a decision.

•    Authority Restrictions: The Immigration Authority cannot issue new residence documents while the suspension is in effect, except:

i. for pending pre-6 October 2025 applications; or
ii. where necessary in the interest of Gibraltar with the Chief Minister’s approval, including:

     a) to meet international obligations
     b) to prevent extreme hardship
     c) for economic reasons

•    Duration: The suspension is temporary and will remain in force until the Chief Minister lifts it by Order published in the Gibraltar Gazette.

For queries, please contact Abi, or reach out to your usual Hassans lawyer. 

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