Setting up a home in a new place is exciting, but we know it can sometimes also be a daunting prospect. Rest assured, Alderney is known for its warm welcome!
We’ve outlined a few practicalities to think about when arriving on-island. Of course, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any particular queries or concerns, we’re always happy to help and are confident you’ll soon be enjoying the many benefits of island life.
Check your documents
Make sure all of your documentation is in order for you and your entire family. Check to ensure that passports are valid, Visas or work permits are in hand, and travel tickets are in the correct name.
Make sure you have packed any supporting documents you will need including marriage certificates, birth certificates, rental agreements, photo identification etc. Most of these items will be needed on Island when applying for Social Security Insurance (Alderney’s equivalent of National Insurance), income tax, etc.
Finding a home
Residency
It’s important to be mindful of the island’s residency rules. If you are unsure about the island’s residency rules and what is applicable to you, please visit the following page:
If you do not have a UK or Irish passport, or Right of Abode in the UK, you will also need a visa to live in Alderney. Please visit the above link for further information regarding visas.
Property
The island has a couple of estate agents who can offer advice on Alderney properties;
A short-term rental can be a good option while you find your feet and get to know the island, but some prefer to buy straight away – it’s completely up to you. Compared with other jurisdictions, renting and buying property in Alderney is relatively simple.
Our guide to finding a home has lots of useful information about buying and renting property:
Registering with Revenue Services
New residents will need to register with Revenue Services for Income Tax and Social Insurance (Alderney’s equivalent of National Insurance). The form to register adults for both purposes can be found here:
Revenue Services - Registration Form
This form can either be scanned and emailed to revenueservice@gov.gg
or posted to:
Social Security, Edward T. Wheadon House, Le Truchot, St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 3WH
or delivered in person to:
General Office, Island Hall, Connaught Square, Alderney, GY9 3AA
Once your form has been processed they will send you an income tax reference number and coding notice (income tax), and a GY number (social insurance).
Please note that, if you are non-employed or self-employed, you can elect to pay income-related contributions (if you do not, you are charged at the maximum weekly rate). The form to apply for income related contributions can be found here:
Registering children
When relocating to the island with children, children must be registered with Revenue Services for the purposes of receiving their social security number (GY number). This then means they can access the healthcare system.
In order to register your child, please complete the following family allowance form*, and return this to Edward T. Wheadon house, Guernsey (address above) or the General Office, Island Hall, Alderney.
*Please note that family allowance in Alderney is subject to meeting certain criteria (more information below). The above form must still be completed to register your child even if you are not eligible for family allowance.
Family Allowance - Further information
More information
If you would like further information regarding the island’s tax and social insurance systems, please visit our dedicated page:
Professional tax advice is very often a good idea from an Alderney or Guernsey-based tax adviser.
Healthcare
Alderney has an excellent healthcare system, however it’s worth noting that the system for accessing medical treatment in Alderney differs to the UK as we do not have the National Health Service (NHS). We pay for all of our own primary care which includes GP and A&E visits. If you haven’t done so already, please take time to review the following webpage that explains Guernsey’s healthcare system:
Once you have moved to Alderney, you will need to register with the Island Medical Centre.
You may also consider health insurance, to give you the peace of mind that you’re covered for all eventualities. This is widely available from a range of private providers both locally and further afield.
It would also be worthwhile registering with the dental practice:
Alderney Dental Practice 01481 822131
Children's healthcare
Following changes made to family allowance in January 2022, the States now subsidise medical consultations for children. So, you will pay less for your child to access primary and emergency care (£25 for a GP or Emergency Department consultation and £15 for a nurse).
Additionally, all children can receive free annual dental check-ups and dental health education in schools.
Cars & Driving
Bringing your car
You’re welcome to bring your car to Alderney with you.
You will need to re-register it in Alderney within your first two weeks of residency. You will also need to pay an emissions fee surcharge, which is calculated based on your car’s emissions.
To re-register your vehicle, you’ll need to have its current and original registration documentation to hand.
Driving Licence
You will also need to re-register your existing driving licence for a Guernsey licence within your first year of residency.
Driving licences from most countries can be exchanged for a local one. Guernsey's Driving and Vehicle Licensing has provided a list of countries where licences can be exchanged. Please review this list to ensure it is possible to exchange your existing licence:
New Residents’ Driving Information
Driving in Alderney
For most, driving in Alderney will be a new experience although, like the UK, we do drive on the left! The roads are narrower, road names are often in French and there are no roundabouts or traffic lights.
Alderney’s roads are a pleasure to explore with a speed limit of 35mph and, unlike the UK, there are no dual carriageways or motorways!
Guide to getting around in Alderney
Education
Alderney’s education system has an excellent reputation and every child has access to free schooling up to the age of 18. (Post 16 education is offered on the island of Guernsey.)
If you are moving to the island with children, complete the necessary school registration. Please visit our Education page for further information regarding schooling in Alderney.
Relocating with pets
Depending on where you are relocating from, there may be certain import requirements to bring your pets to the island. Further information regarding importing pets, travel options and how to register for dog tax in Alderney can be found on our Pet page:
Community
Recent relocators often remark on how friendly and welcoming islanders are. Getting involved in the local community is a great way to explore the island and make new friends and, fortunately, it’s very easy!
Sports and hobbies
From golf, paddle tennis and team sports to vintage bike clubs and literary societies, there’s an activity to suit everyone, whatever your interest or age group. Joining an existing sport or social group is a great way to get to meet like-minded people.
There are many Alderney Clubs & Societies you can follow on social media with lots of information about how you can get involved in the community. Here are a few pages that may be useful:
Events
Alderney also had a jampacked events diary. Throughout the year the island hosts several festivals, carnivals and concerts.