For Alison Teare, Head of Locate Isle of Man, the task of attracting new residents to the Island is not simply about economic growth or population targets. It is, she said, about attracting people who “get it” – who will connect with the character of the Island and contribute to the fabric of its community.

Alison observed a heightened interest in relocation, noting that while the Isle of Man enjoys a strong international reputation for its tax-friendly environment and economic stability, many visitors don’t get to experience the Island beyond its capital.

“When I meet with people outside the Isle of Man, they talk very fondly about it,” she said, “but when I ask if they’ve visited, most haven’t, and of those who have, many are yet to venture further than Douglas, the Island’s capital. Once you get beyond the compact city limits, that’s when you really see and understand the Isle of Man.” Her mission, she explained, is to translate that first-hand sense of belonging into a clear, contemporary proposition for relocation.

Finding the Right Fit
The Island’s attraction strategy, Alison explained, is grounded in diversity. The economy is broad, covering finance, technology, healthcare, engineering and manufacturing, construction and creative industries, which means there is scope for a wide range of professional skills. The Locate Isle of Man Head  pointed out that the organisation continuously monitors evolving needs, from specialist healthcare roles to architects and engineers, ensuring the Island remains dynamic and well-balanced.

She noted that high-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs are drawn to the Island for its sense of community as well as for its fiscal appeal, such as no capital gains, inheritance or withholding taxes. And, while the prospect of corporate income tax at 0% for most businesses and a personal tax cap of £220,000 per annum is certainly inviting, these are individuals often naturally inclined to keep contributing, wherever they relocate to. “Entrepreneurs don’t stop being entrepreneurial,” she said. “They tend to share their knowledge, invest and get heavily involved in the local community around them.” For Alison, this is exactly the type of energy that keeps the Island vibrant: a blend of expertise, curiosity and willingness to give back.

Beyond the Capital
Alison emphasised that the Island’s distinctiveness lies in its scale and accessibility. Visitors are struck by its sense of clean air and wide open space, she explained, meaning it has become a genuine draw for people seeking refuge from crowded urban life or extreme climates. We are the first entire nation to be awarded UNESCO Biosphere status, meaning the Island offers visitors a rare and genuine connection to nature — from dramatic coastlines and rolling hills to pristine beaches and tranquil glens. The Island is also one of the safest places to live in the British Isles with an average commute of just 20 minutes, creating a healthy work-life balance for residents,” she said. Many residents are able to purchase homes with land in close proximity to the major settlements, something increasingly rare across the waters in the United Kingdom. Moreover, with zero stamp duty and no restrictions on property purchases, it’s clear to see why the Island is a popular jurisdiction.

She also pointed out that while the Isle of Man is often associated with the TT Races, this global event only scratches the surface of what the island offers. The drone and helicopter footage from the TT, she observed, has become an unexpected marketing asset, showing off the landscape’s natural beauty and openness to the world.

A Tailored Welcome
Locate Isle of Man plays a key role in smoothing the transition for new residents. Alison explained that the organisation acts as the ‘front door’ to the island, offering guidance on everything from education and healthcare to housing and lifestyle. Some new arrivals come through advisers or intermediaries, while others reach out to the team directly.

The process is highly personal. Each enquiry is handled individually, whether it involves a work permit, family relocation or business setup. “We’ll get to the bottom of their needs, quickly and outline the next steps needed” Alison explained. “This can involve signposting to other agencies within the Department for Enterprise itself, or facilitating connections with relevant private sector interests across the Island.”

One of the more distinctive aspects of Locate Isle of Man’s approach is its concierge-style service. Prospective residents are encouraged to spend a few extra days on the island, often being shown around the Island to gain a fuller sense of the community and its landscape. “We work closely with individuals, families and businesses to help make those introductions,” she said. “It’s about ensuring people can see what life here really feels like.”

Life and Lifestyle
In describing daily life on the Island, Alison painted a picture of balance and connection. The education system mirrors the UK’s, with GCSEs and A Levels, and private schooling providing the International Baccalaureate, alongside a University College linked to Chester University. Healthcare follows an NHS-style model, with reciprocal agreements with the UK and a well-staffed, modern hospital system. “Everything is on a smaller scale, making access easier and pressures lighter when compared with the UK.”.

Innovation and Agility
From a business perspective, Alison underlined that the Isle of Man’s size is one of its biggest assets. Decision-making is quicker, access to policymakers easier, and innovation actively encouraged. The Island’s enterprise support schemes provide practical help for relocation and business growth, while its regulatory approach allows for flexibility without compromising rigour.

She cited areas such as sustainable finance, green technology, digital innovation and medicinal cannabis as examples of sectors where the Island has been quick to act. The Locate Isle of Man Head explained that the Isle of Man Government’s ability to “put fit-for-purpose regulation in place swiftly,” allows new industries to develop responsibly but without unnecessary delay.

This nimbleness, she said, reflects a deeper culture of problem-solving. “If we come up with an idea, we have the capacity to make it happen quickly,” she explained. “We can sit down with the right people, understand their needs, and start moving things forward.”

Community and Connection
Alison also spoke of the Island’s longstanding self-governance as a subtle yet powerful draw. With Tynwald recognised as the world’s oldest continuous parliament, the Isle of Man’s political autonomy gives it a distinctive identity while retaining close ties to the UK. Alison noted that new residents quickly recognise and appreciate the accessibility and responsiveness of government.

“People often comment that they can’t believe how quick or easy it is to get in front of the right person,” she said. “Being smaller and more closely connected makes things easier, and people genuinely want to help one another.”

Elevators
Asked what most distinguishes the Isle of Man from other small jurisdictions positioning themselves for global relocation, Alison highlighted its combination of pace, purpose and belonging. The ability to “harvest innovative thinking quickly,” she said, goes hand-in-hand with a genuine sense of community.

Ultimately, for Alison Teare, attracting new residents is about far more than transactions. It is about finding those who want to make the island their real home: to invest, to share their time, expertise and spirit in its continued evolution. Safety, space, culture and a sense of shared endeavour remain its defining qualities.

In an era when so many are searching for authenticity and balance, the Isle of Man, she believes, offers both: an island not just of safety and opportunity, but of endless possibility.