Immigration & Work Permits

Moving to the Isle of Man? Here's what you need to know about the right to live and work here.

Who Can Live & Work Without a Permit?

British citizens — Full right to live and work
Irish citizens — Full right under the Common Travel Area
IOM residents with settled status — Including those with pre-existing EU settled status

Work Permits

Most other nationalities need a work permit. Key points:

Your employer must apply for the permit (not you)
The job must usually be advertised locally first
Permits are typically issued for 1-5 years and can be renewed
After 5 years of continuous residence, you can apply for leave to remain
After 8-10 years, you may apply for Belonger status (like permanent residence)

Belonger Status: This is the Isle of Man's equivalent of indefinite leave to remain. It gives you unrestricted access to housing and employment. Typically requires 10+ years of residence, though skilled workers may qualify earlier.

Housing Control

Unique to the IoM: the Control of Employment Act means some housing is restricted to those with "qualifying residential status." New residents without this status are limited to certain properties. Your employer or estate agent can advise.

Contact

Immigration: 686766
Work Permits: gov.im/working

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I move to the Isle of Man from the UK?

Yes. As a British citizen, you have an unrestricted right to live and work on the Isle of Man. No visa, no work permit needed. Just move! However, be aware of housing control restrictions — not all properties are available to new residents until you've lived on the island for a qualifying period.

How long until I can buy any property?

New residents may be restricted to "open market" properties initially. After gaining qualifying residential status (typically 5+ years of continuous residence), you can buy or rent any property on the island, including restricted (local) housing.