Gibraltar

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Gibraltar is located at the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula, a strategic area marking the meeting point of the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. Spain ceded Gibraltar to Great Britain in 1713. Since then, Gibraltar's status has become a major source of contention between the two countries, with Spain continuing to lay claim to the colony. Gibraltarians regard themselves as culturally and historically separate from the Spanish. The issue re-emerged onto the international agenda in 2001 with a series of high-profile meetings between the Spanish and British governments forced upon by the EU. Gibraltar is classed as a British Overseas Territory, with a largely self-governing system. The official language is English, but there are many other languages spoken on the Rock, particularly Spanish and Portuguese.

Gibraltar is a major offshore financial centre. The Gibraltar economy is largely based on financial services, online gambling, tourism and shipping. Financial services are the main driver of the economy, with a 12,000 strong workforce. According to the 2015 International Monetary Fund World Economic Outlook Database, Gibraltar is ranked as the 3rd world economy in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The finance sector is made up of accountancy firms, legal firms, firms that provide a variety of financial services, banks, insurance companies and also pure company management practitioners. According to the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission, the finance sector is continuing to grow at a steady rate.

Gibraltar’s rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, beautiful beaches and all year round sunshine, serve as a major attraction for other European expats.