The Most Complete Guide To Investing In Jersey For Residency.
Exploring the most complete guide to investing in Jersey for residency 2022 provides insights too for those considering international investments.
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Nothing written here is formal advice, and the facts might have changed since we first wrote this article.
Table of Contents
Introduction
You could be forgiven for having no idea where or what Jersey is. Even if you do, you probably only have a hazy concept of where it is.
This small archipelago, which is part of the Channel Islands, is located off the coast of Normandy, France.
However, even while some may claim that its remote physical position is what makes it a desirable investment immigration destination, it is not the most important factor here.
Jersey’s citizens enjoy unmatched privacy, among a slew of other advantages.
Jersey has long been a powerhouse in terms of providing a good standard of living, worldwide connections, a stable economy, no or cheap taxes, and easy access to the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Plus, if you want to invest in real estate rather than start a business, Jersey is a perfect alternative to the UK’s Tier 1 visa.
So, if you’re one of the many people who has realised how important it is to diversify your options by acquiring a second residence and a passport portfolio, Jersey should be on your radar.
In this essay, we’ll explain what Jersey is like and why you should invest there, as well as the requirements for obtaining residency and how you can eventually receive a UK passport through Jersey.
Have a read if you believe you would be interested in pursuing your Jersey residence through investment and learning the ins and outs of the application process as well as your real estate purchase.
What Exactly Is Jersey
The Channel Islands are a strange geographical and political idea. So, before we tell you why you should consider becoming a Jersey resident, you should know about the island’s international reputation.
The islands are divided into two bailiwicks (sometimes known as jurisdictions): the Bailiwick of Jersey and the Bailiwick of Guernsey, with Jersey being the bigger of the two.
They are both British Crown dependencies, although they are self-governing and not part of the United Kingdom. However, in exchange for their fidelity to the Crown, Jersey is granted several advantages.
This indicates that Jersey has its own:
apparatus of constitutional government
Taxes and legislation
monetary (which is a version of the GBP; British and Scottish currency also freely circulates in Jersey)
International recognition
However, it has significant relations with the United Kingdom because:
Jersey’s defence needs are met by the United Kingdom.
Jersey is treated as if it were a part of the United Kingdom in reasons of immigration and nationality.
And when it comes to quality of life, Jersey’s 100,000 citizens enjoy one of the world’s finest living standards. Outside of London, the standard of life is comparable, with Michelin-starred restaurants included.
Jersey’s Gross National Income (GNI) per capita is among the greatest in the world, and residents proudly display their wealth.
Jersey can brag about its magnificent coastline with sunny beaches and plenty of surfing options, as well as its many top-notch golf courses and agricultural assets — a unique blend of British and French traditions.
Jersey’s primary language is English, however several other European languages, ranging from French to Spanish, are also spoken due to the island’s cosmopolitan nature.
When you reside in Jersey, you’re never far from the Atlantic Ocean, Jersey’s undulating dunes, and hidden beach caves. Jersey is divided into 12 parishes, each with access to the water.
St Helier is the largest parish and has the most residents, but you don’t have to live ‘in town’ to have access to all of the amenities.
The entire island, in fact, has one of the fastest broadband connections in the world.
Residents of Jersey also have access to a modern airport that connects them to the United Kingdom and continental Europe, and consequently the rest of the globe.
In a nutshell, Jersey is a small yet distinct part of the world with a high and well-balanced quality of life. Take note, high-net-worth individuals.
What Is The Appeal Of Jersey
And Jersey isn’t just about having fun. In fact, it offers a winning combination of ‘pleasure and business’ aspects, making it an excellent choice for international investors.
Tourism accounts for nearly a quarter of Jersey’s GDP, and many visitors come for the high-end hotels, resorts, and fine dining restaurants. Agriculture adds an additional 5%, largely due to the Jersey cow and the Jersey Royal New Potato.
For years, however, little islands in the “middle of nowhere” have recognised the importance of diversifying their sources of revenue.
In other words, tourism could only carry Jersey so far.
Jersey’s finance business, which includes banks, trust and fund administration services, accountancy, and legal services, is a good example. It has a worldwide reputation for being reliable and discreet.
It has been around for about 50 years and accounts for more than half of the island’s GDP. It also accounts for 60% of all government revenues collected, making it the primary economic driver in Jersey.
Jersey is a major offshore financial centre, with some even considering it a tax haven. Jersey is ranked 16th in the world by the Financial Secrecy Index as of 2020, however it is completely OECD-compliant and does not appear on the EU’s list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax reasons.
The Jersey Financial Services Commission, an independent body, has strict monitoring of the company.
Jersey is an excellent area to invest since it is quite stable – both in terms of government and life in general – with over 50 banks and approximately 35,000 registered firms.
Jersey is also a tax-free or low-tax jurisdiction, with no capital gains, inheritance, gift, or sale taxes.
And, while some may think the place is dull (and, indeed, the majority of foreigners living in Jersey are retirees), the island’s stability and solitude are precisely why so many people choose to invest in Jersey in the first place.
Finally, Jersey is a great alternative to the UK Tier-1 visa, which is a type of investment visa that requires a business history.
Jersey’s Investment Residency Program
Jersey technically offers a concept called as “residence by investment.” However, if you like, you can utilise this residence to work toward obtaining a passport.
Jersey’s scheme, officially known as the High-Value Residency Regime, provides:
Real estate investment. Put your money into Jersey real estate to reduce the risk of your investment.
There are no English requirements. One less thing to worry about.
There is no prior business experience. Unlike many other residence-by-investment programmes, Jersey does not need investors to have a background in business.
Bring your entire family. For the same investment, you can bring your spouse and children under the age of 18.
This programme enables you to relocate to Jersey, live and work there full-time, and take advantage of the numerous advantages that a Jersey residency by investment provides.
It is ideal for people seeking admission to the United Kingdom and Ireland as well as UK citizenship for the entire family.
Jersey residence by investment is also a viable option for people wishing to make a major investment in Europe or a secure financial centre that is not bound by UK and EU restrictions.
Crypto investors are another group of high-net-worth individuals that should consider moving to Jersey. Jersey is an open-to-crypto jurisdiction.
Eligibility
So, how does one go about becoming a valuable resident? Jersey residence by investment has three components:
Your current situation and future plans. You must have a good personal reputation and show the authorities that your presence in Jersey would benefit the island in some way, whether through business or social activities.
Your ability to purchase property worth at least £1,750,000. A property of this worth can also be leased or rented. Once your residence application has been approved, you must complete this requirement. This home will have to be your primary residence.
Your ability to pay £145,000 in taxes every year. When you live in Jersey, your international income is taxed. Your annual income should be no less than £725,000 (just over $1 million) based on current tax rates.
There are also the usual ‘garden variety’ conditions for obtaining residency in Jersey. To apply, you must be 18 years old or older, show that you have the complete investment sum in your possession, and show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family without relying on public assistance.
Even if you complete all of the above requirements, there is no certainty that you will be granted residency in Jersey.
Each application is reviewed at the discretion of government officials, and many are based on subjective factors such as volunteer work, media coverage of your company or social life, medals and achievements, cultural interests or abilities, and criminal history (or the lack thereof).
The Application Process in Steps
Each year, only a set (but hidden) number of candidates are granted Jersey residency, so if you’re interested, don’t wait.
The application takes about two weeks to process, and it costs £5,000 for one person to apply. To put it another way, if you have a spouse and/or dependents, each of them will have to pay $5,000.
But here’s the kicker: Jersey’s application process differs significantly from other residence-by-investment plans. Officials from the government do rigorous background checks to ensure that the person is a good match for Jersey and vice versa.
Applicants must also provide substantial file portfolios detailing their whole lives, as well as financial information, police background checks, and at least four character references.
Talk about a comprehensive and qualitative strategy.
Few applications are really rejected as a result of the significant preparation effort. It’s mostly because so few individuals actually pull together the complete stack of documentation to apply in the first place.
So, if you want to live in Jersey, what should you do? Our step-by-step instructions are below.
Apply For Jersey Residency
If you want to apply for the High-Value Residency, you’ll need to acquire the following documents and deliver them to the government officials in Jersey:
You must write your own application letter.
Your company profile, with all supporting documents
Your complete financial profile, with all supporting documentation
Two personal recommendations
Two professional recommendations
a photocopied copy of your passport
If you’re buying a house with your spouse, you’ll need your marriage certificate.
A Disclosure Certificate from the relevant DBS authority
A declaration of your international income to the government of Jersey
If your application is approved, you will be given a Jersey resident card and be permitted to visit the nation.
Purchase Real Estate In Jersey
Your investor visa will usually be accepted in two to four weeks, allowing you to migrate to the island (with your family, if applicable).
The following step is to make a real estate purchase. You are allowed to rent if you wish, however applicants who intend to rent are extremely rarely approved to become Jersey residents.
The figure to remember is £1,750,000. If you make an investment of this level, you’ll be able to keep your residency in Jersey.
You’ll also have an interview with government officials, who will ask you where your money comes from and how you plan to keep up with your tax obligations.
You can renew your residence permit for another two years after three years if you keep the real estate in your possession and continue to pay taxes every year.
If you want to preserve your residency status, you can’t rent the property.
Obtain A Permanent Residence Permit
You must be a full tax resident of Jersey in order to apply for permanent residence. This entails paying a minimum of £145,000 in personal taxes each year.
You’ll also need to spend more time in Jersey than anywhere else in the globe every year leading up to your permanent residence application — at least five years.
Your permanent residency status, also known as the Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), will allow you to spend less time in Jersey if you so desire.
Unlike your original stay in Jersey, you will be required to show that you have an adequate command of the English language as well as knowledge of life in the United Kingdom and Jersey.
To be eligible for permanent residence, you must not have broken any immigration laws.
Obtain Citizenship In Jersey
After 6 years as a Jersey resident, you will be eligible to apply for UK citizenship. In other words, before applying for citizenship, you must have been a permanent resident for at least 12 months.
If you don’t want to, you don’t have to claim citizenship.
A Jersey passport, on the other hand, is comparable to the UK passport, which allows visa-free travel to over 173 countries worldwide.
And having a UK passport can be beneficial in terms of your passport portfolio, the freedoms of living and doing business that come with it, and many other ways.
You cannot spend more than 90 days outside of Jersey in the year preceding your citizenship application. To be eligible to apply, you must have spent no more than 450 days outside of Jersey or the United Kingdom in the five years prior.
And here’s the good news: once you get your passport, you won’t have to give up any other citizenship you may have in exchange for Jersey citizenship. This is because, like the United Kingdom, it has no limits on dual citizenship.
However, you should be aware that your original place of citizenship may not allow dual citizenship.
Investing In Jersey Real Estate
Let’s take a closer look at what it takes to buy real estate in Jersey, as it’s a very different and involved process than in other regions of the world.
If you apply for and are granted residency in Jersey, you must move there and purchase real estate within 90 days.
The minimum value is £1.75 million, and while you’d think you’d get quite a house for that sum, the reality is a little more straightforward: Jersey’s real estate prices are fairly high due to a shortage of supply and high demand.
But here’s the fun part: have you ever wished to buy a property in full suit and tie? You can in Jersey.
One of the most significant aspects of purchasing property in Jersey is that all transactions are conducted in public before the Royal Court.
The real estate contract must be presented to the court by a local lawyer. You can give said lawyer power of attorney to represent you in court so that you are not required to appear.
If that seems severe, it is, and it takes time as well (but shorter than in the UK).
Due to the multiple surveys, searches, and site visits that are routinely conducted, the process from the acceptance of an offer to the conclusion of a sale can take up to six weeks.
You, as the buyer, will be responsible for paying stamp duty on your home. The amount you will pay will be determined by the free market value of your home. The maximum rate is 9.5 percent, and you must pay the entire amount before the title is handed to you.
Jersey Residency’s Tax Implications
Every worldwide move you make, particularly establishing residency in another country, has tax implications.
So, before you make such a big decision as moving to Jersey, think about how it will influence your finances.
The good news is that Jersey offers a tax-friendly environment, particularly for those with a high net worth. It is not a tax-free country, but it is one with low taxes.
When a person becomes a Jersey resident through investment, his international income is taxed at 20% on the first £725,000 earned. Any additional earnings will be taxed at 1%.
These tax rates can make sense if you’re a high or ultra-high earner.
So you’ll pay taxes on your income, as well as goods and services (5 percent tax rate), but no capital gains, wealth, inheritance, sales, gift, or estate taxes (except in most industries).
In fact, the government hasn’t increased the 20% income tax in almost 60 years. That’s because it consistently earns a budget surplus by’selling’ its tax advantages to foreigners, as well as other, if minor, economic activity.
Jersey has made it obvious that it intends to keep its appeal as a location where one can reduce his tax rate for many decades to come.
And, if you ask us, that’s pretty cool.
Setting up trusts outside of Jersey can further reduce your exposure to Jersey’s income tax, but these must be approved by the Jersey government.
However, you must always remember to pay the requisite amount of tax to Jersey’s economy each year, or you risk losing your residency status.
Investment Alternatives For Jersey Residency
Because Jersey only offers a residence by investment programme and no other legal methods of residing on the island, if the terms do not suit you, your sole option is to seek residency in another country.
If the cost of living in Jersey is prohibitive, consider the Greek Golden Visa. You could invest in Greek real estate and travel visa-free throughout the EU for a bargain price of €250,000.
Maybe it’s the isolation of Jersey that’s getting to you? If you want to live in London, the UK Tier-1 investor visa is an excellent alternative.
Because the European residence choices are so diverse, it’s essential to speak with a reputable financial advisor to discuss your investment immigration goals and create a custom plan.
The Benefits Of Investing In Jersey Residency
The Common Travel Area allows you to travel freely. Jersey residents can travel throughout the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands. There are numerous weekend trips to London, Dublin, or Edinburgh available. Furthermore, the EU is also visa-free.
It is not a part of the United Kingdom or the European Union. What makes this a plus? Although you enjoy some of the benefits of being a UK resident while living in Jersey, there are no negative tax consequences from the UK or the EU. This is wonderful news if you want to live somewhere that doesn’t have a stranglehold on you in terms of regulations and taxes.
A route to obtaining a British passport. Due to Jersey’s unique relationship with the United Kingdom, obtaining a Jersey passport after six years of living on the island will be the same as obtaining a British passport. You will also have visa-free entry to over 170 countries, making this a very powerful passport.
Excellent schooling. Jersey’s public services are actually superb, and Jersey residents and their family members enjoy access to higher education in the United Kingdom. Jersey’s educational system is based on the national curriculum of the United Kingdom.
You are welcome to bring your entire family. Your spouse and children under the age of 18 can join you in Jersey and become residents for the same amount of money.
The application for residency is processed quickly. When it comes to processing and granting residence by investment petitions, Jersey has to be one of the fastest countries.
High living standards. Jersey offers great public services as well as a high quality of life. You could go golfing, surfing, or spend a few nights in London whenever you choose. Imagine doing that after a long day at the office! The flight just takes one hour.
International financial centre. Jersey’s financial industry is well-known for being stable, quiet, and excellent. This is critical for investors who wish to set up and manage trusts, funds, or simply want to know that the economy of their home country is stable.
Jersey makes doing business simple. Jersey is home to hundreds of foreign-owned businesses in addition to being an international financial centre. Entrepreneurs are drawn to the island because to its convenient access to the United Kingdom and Europe. Furthermore, the island’s communication services, from fast internet to extremely efficient courier services, are of great quality.
The Drawbacks Of Investing In Jersey Residency
There is no entry to the Schengen zone. Jersey residents and citizens do not have access to the Schengen zone of free movement because it is not member of the EU. If this is important to you, you should look for a different dwelling through an investing programme. You can still travel to all EU countries without a visa for up to 90 days.
A significant financial investment. To commit nearly two million British pounds only to live on a little island is a significant sum. Although it is a financial hub with a very favourable tax system, some may believe that “simply a dwelling” isn’t worth such a high price. Malta citizenship can be obtained through investment (in the EU) at a fraction of the time and cost.
No investment choices available. Jersey’s rich investors are encouraged to dwell on the island, therefore the sole investment option is real estate, which you will most likely live in afterwards. Other investment choices, such as stocks or bonds, are not available.
Island mania. Jersey is a lovely island with posh restaurants and houses, but it’s so small that ‘island fever’ will certainly set in at some point. Jersey is a place where everyone knows everyone, which may not be appealing to many high-net-worth individuals.
Physical presence is required. Jersey citizens are required to spend at least half of the year physically on the island, which might be a hindrance to many Nomad Capitalists seeking complete lifestyle flexibility.
For permanent residence, English is required. Although there is no English requirement to gain Jersey residency, you will need to pass an English exam if you want to become a permanent resident or citizen.
FAQs About Jersey Residency Through Investment
Even if this essay on Jersey residence by investment is comprehensive, you are certain to have more questions.
Perhaps you’d like a short reference guide to the program’s most important facts? This is it.
What is the location of Jersey?
Jersey is an island off the coast of Normandy, France, and is the largest of the Channel Islands. It is located 170 kilometres south of the United Kingdom and has had long-standing ties to the British Crown.
Is Jersey a member of the UK and/or the European Union?
Jersey is not part of the United Kingdom or the European Union. It has a unique self-governing status, with long-standing ties to both organisations but no control. This means you won’t have to worry about the EU passing laws affecting Jersey’s beneficial taxation system, as happened with the CBI schemes in Malta and Cyprus.
Who is the best candidate for a Jersey residency?
People who sincerely wish to live in Jersey are the greatest candidates for its residence by investment programme. Because the ties must be genuine and you will be spending more than half of your year in Jersey, it is preferable if you enjoy the island. Jersey is also ideal for people who desire easy access to the UK and the rest of the EU without having to deal with the regulations that come with living in either.
What is Jersey’s income tax rate?
Your first £725,000 of worldwide income will be taxed at a flat 20% rate as an investor resident. Any additional income is taxed at a rate of 1%. Jersey has no capital gains, wealth, inheritance, or property taxes, which is interesting to know.
Which enterprises in Jersey are subject to capital gains tax?
Although most firms in Jersey are exempt from capital gains tax, some industries are subject to a 10% levy. These are businesses in the financial services and utility industries.
What is Jersey’s investment-based residency programme?
This is a residency by investment scheme in the independent jurisdiction of Jersey, also known as the Jersey golden visa and officially known as the High Value Residency of Jersey. It’s been around for decades and has enticed many high-net-worth individuals to apply, citing the excellent quality of life, favourable tax climate, and the opportunity to obtain a UK passport.
What is the procedure for applying for Jersey residency through investment?
You must mail the application and all supporting documentation from within your home country. In most cases, applications are approved within 2-4 weeks, although it might take up to 6 weeks in other cases.
How can I get my Jersey residency extended
Your residence permit will be easily renewed if you have kept your real estate investment and have spent more time in Jersey than not. The Indefinite Leave to Remain permit, which translates to permanent residence, can be obtained after 5 years of presence in Jersey. Knowledge of English and Jersey history and culture is necessary.
What is the procedure for obtaining a Jersey passport
You can apply for a Jersey passport once you’ve lived in the island for at least six years. This is equivalent to a British passport, and you will be able to take advantage of all of its privileges.
Is it possible to move my family to Jersey for the same investment
You will be able to bring your closest family members, including your spouse and children, to Jersey if you apply for residency by investment.
Who is eligible to become a Jersey resident
High-value residents are individuals who can (1) pay at least £145,000 in taxes per year, (2) purchase real estate worth at least £1.75 million, and (3) have a strong financial and social position that will benefit Jersey in some way.
Who is most likely to be granted residency in Jersey
Due to the high demand for Jersey residency by investment and the restricted number of granted applications each year, there are some variables that may increase your chances of success. If you’ve done volunteer work, donated to charity, received formal recognition or prizes for your professional, sports, or other activities, received media attention for any of them, or have cultural interests or abilities that could assist Jersey, make sure to include them.
Is Jersey considered a tax haven
While some perceive Jersey to be a tax haven, it is actually a tax-friendly jurisdiction. In the case of resident investors, they must pay at least 20% of their worldwide income up to £725,000 per year in tax. And, while it may not seem like a lot, all of your future earnings will be taxed at 1%, which is fantastic news.
What are Jersey’s business tax rates like
Depending on the industry, corporate taxes range between 0% and 10%. For example, the regulated financial industry and its enterprises pay a capital gains tax of 10%.
Conclusion
Jersey does not have the same sex appeal as places like Monaco and Malta. In fact, few people are familiar with Jersey.
And that is precisely why it should be considered while making long-term financial planning and overseas investment strategies.
Jersey is becoming increasingly popular among high-net-worth individuals as a destination to live and invest because it has the reputation, privacy, and integrity that they seek.
Jersey has effectively resisted external pressures in its banking sector due to robust self-regulation.
Unlike Malta and Cyprus, which must adhere to EU guidelines for residency and citizenship by investment programmes, Jersey is free to do as it pleases. Investors will benefit greatly from this.
Furthermore, Jersey’s citizens have one of the finest quality of lives in the world. Jersey is a really unique proposition, from its sophisticated restaurants and golf courses to visa-free travel to the UK and Ireland and a slew of other advantages.
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Adam is an internationally recognised author on financial matters, with over 760.2 million answer views on Quora.com, a widely sold book on Amazon, and a contributor on Forbes.
