Spain Granted Immigration Control in Gibraltar Under New EU-UK Agreement

The European Union and the United Kingdom have reached a major post-Brexit deal granting Spain the authority to manage immigration procedures in Gibraltar. This includes the issuance of residence permits, visas, and handling of asylum applications, marking a significant shift in border control policies for the territory.

Speaking to Bloomberg, an EU Commission spokesperson confirmed that Spain will play a “special role” in Gibraltar. The spokesperson clarified that the arrangement is designed to preserve the integrity of the Schengen Area once internal border checks between southern Spain and Gibraltar are lifted.

Border-Free Travel and Dual Controls Planned

The agreement, finalized in early June 2025, outlines the removal of physical border checks for people and goods moving between Spain and Gibraltar. To compensate, dual border control systems will be installed at Gibraltar’s port and airport to monitor external arrivals in accordance with Schengen regulations.

While Spain will handle immigration processes like residency and visa issuance, Gibraltar authorities will still retain some powers. An EU official stated that Gibraltar will be allowed to issue a limited number of short-term humanitarian visas and will have a say in asylum decisions. The local government insists it will retain the final decision-making authority for residence permits.

High Stakes for Cross-Border Workers

The deal is expected to greatly benefit the approximately 15,000 Spanish citizens who cross the border daily to work in Gibraltar, along with many Gibraltarians who travel into Spain for employment and business. Simplified cross-border movement is seen as essential for supporting industries on both sides of the border.

Sovereignty Claims Remain Unaffected

A spokesperson for the Gibraltar government stressed that the agreement will not affect Gibraltar’s sovereignty. "This agreement safeguards our ability to trade and ensures the free flow of people crucial to Gibraltar’s economy,” the spokesperson said.

Negotiations between the EU and UK teams are in the final stages. Once technical details are completed, the agreement will be formally adopted and ratified.