Retiring to Gibraltar from the UK? How to obtain residency and GHA access.

Why Retire to Gibraltar?

Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory at the southern tip of Spain, boasts a unique combination of Mediterranean weather and British institutions. English is the official language, the Gibraltar pound (pegged to the British pound) is the local currency, and the legal system is based on English law. For UK pensioners, it’s an easy transition with the added benefits of a slower pace of life, scenic views, and a close-knit community.

Getting Your UK State Pension Paid in Gibraltar

One of the most important considerations when retiring abroad is how you’ll receive your UK State Pension.

Can You Receive Your UK State Pension Abroad?

✅ Yes! The UK government pays the State Pension to eligible pensioners living abroad, including those in Gibraltar.

You’ll continue to receive your pension just as you would in the UK, and better still, Gibraltar is covered by the UK’s “uprating” policy. This means your pension will increase each year (like it would if you remained in the UK), helping you keep up with inflation and the cost of living.

How to Arrange Pension Payments to Gibraltar

To make sure your pension payments continue smoothly after you move:

1️⃣ Notify the International Pension Centre (IPC)
The IPC is your first port of call. You’ll need to inform them of your move abroad and provide your new address in Gibraltar. Here’s how you can contact them:

• Phone: +44 (0)191 218 7777

• Online: Use the IPC’s online enquiry form on the UK government website.

2️⃣ Choose How You’d Like to Receive Your Pension
You have two options:

• Keep your UK bank account – your pension can be paid in GBP to your UK account, and you can access funds via international ATM withdrawals or transfers.

• Open a Gibraltar bank account – you can have your pension paid directly to your local Gibraltar account, avoiding extra transfer fees or exchange rate worries.

The good news is that the Gibraltar pound (GIP) is pegged 1:1 to GBP, so there’s no real currency conversion needed.

3️⃣ Provide Updated Payment Details
You’ll need to fill out a form with your updated bank details (either UK or Gibraltar account). The IPC can send you this form or guide you through the process online.

Important Notes

• Uprating: Because Gibraltar is on the UK’s approved list, your pension will continue to increase each year (the “triple lock” guarantee: whichever is highest of inflation, average wage growth, or 2.5%).

• No automatic notification: Don’t assume the DWP or HMRC knows you’ve moved – you must tell them directly.

• Other benefits: If you receive Pension Credit or other UK benefits, these might stop or change when you move abroad, so always check.

Accessing Healthcare in Gibraltar: The GHA

Once your pension is sorted, you’ll need to consider your healthcare needs. Gibraltar’s healthcare system – the Gibraltar Health Authority (GHA) – is similar to the UK’s NHS in terms of care and coverage.

Who Is Eligible?

If you’re a UK pensioner receiving the UK State Pension, you’re typically eligible to access Gibraltar’s public healthcare system. The key to unlocking this coverage is the S1 form.

What is the S1 Form?

The S1 form is a certificate of entitlement to healthcare in the EU (or associated territories like Gibraltar) funded by the UK. Essentially, it tells Gibraltar’s authorities that the UK will pay for your healthcare while you live there.

How to Get an S1 Form

1️⃣ Apply to the Overseas Healthcare Services (part of the NHS Business Services Authority)

• Call: +44 (0)191 218 1999

• Or visit the NHS overseas healthcare webpage.

2️⃣ Provide proof that you’re receiving the UK State Pension and that you’re retiring to Gibraltar.

3️⃣ Receive your S1 form – it’s usually sent by post.

Registering the S1 with the GHA

Once you have your S1 form:

✅ Take it to the Gibraltar Health Authority Registration Office (usually located at St Bernard’s Hospital).
✅ Register as a resident and provide your local address and other necessary documents (passport, proof of residency, etc.).
✅ Once accepted, you’ll be entered into Gibraltar’s healthcare system and can receive treatment just like local residents.

What if You’re Not Yet of Pension Age?

If you’re retiring early and aren’t yet drawing your UK State Pension, you typically won’t be eligible for the S1 form. In this case:

✅ You’ll need to purchase private health insurance to cover your healthcare needs.
✅ There are several international insurance providers that offer expat healthcare plans tailored to Gibraltar.

Tax and Pension Considerations

Although Gibraltar has no capital gains tax or inheritance tax, it does have an income tax system. Your UK State Pension may not be taxable in Gibraltar, but any other income streams might be.