Bringing Your Family from the UK or Ireland

The Isle of Man offers 1 year automatic work permits for spouses, cohabiting and civil partners of Isle of Man work permit holders and immediate access to the Island's free school system for your children.

There is a relaxed and peaceful way of life in the Isle of Man and families enjoy many benefits including good, affordable housing, high quality education, free health services, a wide range of leisure and cultural activities, space to breathe and the lowest level of crime in the British Isles.

Growing up in the Isle of Man

The last census in 2016 showed that over 17% of Isle of Man residents are under the age of 16. Children in the Isle of Man benefit from small class sizes, safe environments and a plethora of activities to choose from.

There are numerous sports clubs around the island varying from football to competitive swimming. Whether your child wants to continue his favourite sport, or try her hand at something brand new, the Isle of Man can provide that.

“Most of my free time is spent with my Wife and Son as he’s not yet 2 years old. There are lots of activities for families, whether taking him on the steam train or simply playing in one of the many public play parks around the Island." - Lee Williamson, Cyprus 

The Isle of Man has 32 primary schools, five secondary schools and two independent schools. With small class sizes and an abundance of extra-curricular activities, the Isle of Man Department of Education takes learning to the next level and is a true gem to the Isle of Man.

To learn more about the Isle of Man’s School System, please click HERE. 

Parental Leave Rights

Maternity Leave

Eligible employees are entitled to maternity leave in accordance with Isle of Man employment legislation. This includes time off before and after the birth of a child, with statutory maternity pay provided for qualifying employees.

For more information about maternity leave entitlements, click here.

Shared Parental Leave

From 1 November 2025, eligible parents will be able to share up to 50 weeks of leave and 39 weeks of pay following the birth or adoption of a child. This new right allows both parents to take leave in a more flexible way, either together or separately, depending on their circumstances. Shared parental leave must be taken within one year of the child’s birth or placement for adoption.

Parental Bereavement Leave

Also effective from 1 November 2025, employed parents who lose a child under the age of 18, or suffer a stillbirth after 24 weeks of pregnancy, will be entitled to two weeks of statutory bereavement leave. This provides time away from work to grieve and make arrangements without financial penalty.

Learn more about the latest updates on shared parental leave, parental bereavement leave, and maternity leave entitlements here.

“Once you get used to the slow pace of life here, it’s wonderful. We have an incredible work-life balance. Because I work part-time here, I have been able to have time with my son that I would not have had anywhere else. He is safe and that gives him freedoms he wouldn't have anywhere else.” -Lián Sherriff, Ireland 

Safety

The Island has very low levels of crime, giving children a lot more freedom in their younger years. The Isle of Man has been recognised as the safest place in the British Isles and we do not plan on ever losing that distinction.

“After an attempted mugging in Brooklyn, I had a set of rules about going out at night: don't wear headphones after sunset, travel with friends if possible, wear a cross-body bag. When I moved to the Isle of Man, it was honestly a shock to experience night time in Douglas; I've never felt unsafe here.”  -Kim Graziano, New York City 

To learn more about safety, please click HERE. 

Work Permits for Spouses

If you are arriving to the Isle of Man, then your spouse, cohabiting or civil partner is entitled to an automatic 1-year work permit.

To learn more or to apply, click HERE. 

“I previously lived in the South of England and also have travelled extensively through Africa and Asia. The Isle of Man is unique compared to anywhere I've visited – it has the best of England in a small area in respect of scenery, with its own unique cultural branding. There is a huge opportunity for people to truly make a difference and influence change here – whereas the UK is driven purely through party politics. Our schools are excellent with autonomy still retained with teachers for many aspects, crime is low, and tax regimes mean more of your money is yours to spend.” -Clare Bettison, UK 

There are many, many benefits to bringing your family to the Isle of Man. To start your journey, CONTACT a member of our team today!