Individuals Taking Up Residence in Guernsey - Controls

Guernsey has the same immigration laws as the UK but as yet it does not operate systems of work permits in respect of citizens of the EU. Population matters have so far been controlled through housing laws. Guernsey distinguishes between "essential workers", those imported to provide a skill which is not available locally or for which there is an inadequate number of local practitioners, and other immigrants. The recruitment of staff from outside the Island is controlled by the Housing Control of Occupation (Guernsey) Laws 1982 to 1990. Non-EU nationals are required to complete immigration formalities and to obtain a work permit.

The law provides for control over the occupation of dwellings by the States Housing Authority. The control is exercised by dividing the housing market into two sections, the "local market" and the "open market". Dwellings in the open market are available to anyone. Local market houses are available only to those with residential qualifications and