Working & living offshore A lawyers guide
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Welcome Working & living offshore Want the inside scoop about working and living in Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Guernsey and Jersey? Interested to know more about Asia, Middle East and Mauritius? We know that making the move abroad can feel daunting so our three experts, Thomas Hartwell, Chloe Lam-Moores and Nicolas Corvi, are here to advise you every step of the way, providing you with destination overviews, most in-demand legal work and the multitude of lifestyle benefits. With many years’ experience of the legal sector across Private Practice, In-house and Offshore, we’re proud at Hydrogen of the partnerships we’ve built with our clients and candidates. If you have any questions, please get in touch. You’ll find all contact details at the back.
The Cayman Islands The Caymans are a major offshore centre for legal and financial services, so this is a fantastic location for top quality international work. Although known as a funds jurisdiction, there are opportunities across all transactional and disputes areas.
Bermuda Although known as an insurance jurisdiction, there are many opportunities across transactional areas as well as within disputes. Most law firms are based in the capital, Hamilton, along with locally domiciled multinationals and major global insurers.
British Virgin Islands Traditionally known as a corporate jurisdiction, the BVI economy is among the most stable in the Caribbean, powered by its financial and legal sectors. There is strong demand for specialist lawyers with experience in contentious matters.
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Cayman Islands Given its close connections to the US, Grand Cayman (the largest of the islands) is famed for its cosmopolitan vibe. Stingray City and the ‘Atlantis’ underwater expedition are experiences not be missed. To
Cayman Islands
Capital: George Town Size: 264km2 Population: 68,136 Tax: 0%
or visit the stunning Crystal Caves. For cycling, horse riding and kite surfing fans, Barkers National Park is your port of call. Transport links and connections to the rest of the Caribbean, America and Europe are excellent – with several direct flights to London each week. The new BA Boeing 777 also now flies to Owen Roberts International airport.
sample the island’s quintessential atmosphere, head to Bodden Town (the former capital) where you can take in the historic sights and savour the wonderful local cuisine. You can take a leisurely stroll along the magnificent Seven Mile Beach
Legal overview Areas of demand Litigation, corporate, finance, funds Qualifications From a Commonwealth jurisdiction Salary range $155,000 - $200,000+ Work permit Required Legal Practitioners Bill* • PQE due to rise from three to five years • Ratio on number of lawyers who can practise outside Cayman (to be established) • Residency no longer required for admission to Cayman Bar (but you must work for an affiliate of a qualifying law firm) * Provisions could still change
“The zero per cent tax rate is a big lure and pay in Cayman compares favourably with leading firms in London. Associates regularly work closely with large blue‑chip clients on cross border multi‑jurisdictional matters” Thomas Hartwell Associate Director (Legal)
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Bermuda Located off the eastern coast of the US in the Atlantic Ocean and the Sargasso Sea, Bermuda is made up of 181 separate islands. It has
Bermuda
Capital: Hamilton Size: 53.2km2 Population: 63,867 Tax: 4.75%
The British, North American, African, Portuguese and West Indian cultural influences are reflected in the local architecture and cuisine – making Bermuda an eclectic and intriguing location. There are regular scheduled flights to various destinations across the east coast of the US, Toronto and London (which is a seven-hour flight away).
retained its colonial charm, having first been settled by the British in the 17th Century. The Old Town area of St
George, the former capital, is a UNESCO world heritage site.
From the National Museum to the Underwater Exploration Institute and Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve, there’s something for everyone in Bermuda. The more sports inclined will enjoy all the usual water activities plus exceptional tennis facilities and stunning golf courses.
“Firms compete for the best talent at the 3 year PQE mark and start to engage with prospective employees after two and half years or six months before any eventual move. Therefore, it is worth considering your options once you’ve reached the 2 year PQE stage” Thomas Hartwell Associate Director (Legal)
Legal overview Areas of demand Litigation, corporate, finance, funds Qualifications 3 years’ PQE (from a Commonwealth jurisdiction) Salary range $145,000 - $200,000+ Work permit Required for expats
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British Virgin Islands
British Virgin Islands Capital: Road Town Size: 153km2 Population: 31,122 Tax: 8%
Of the 50 plus British Virgin Islands (BVI), only 16 are inhabited. Tortola and Virgin Gorda are the two main islands, the majority of residents residing in the former. Perhaps the most famous is Necker Island, owned by British business magnate, Sir Richard Branson. Some of the standout attractions include Savannah Bay with its mile-long stretch of white sand, Gorda Peak National Park and The Baths, both great venues for hiking and trekking.
The aptly named Flash of Beauty beach does live up to its name! If you’re a big watersports fan, the BVI is a mecca for scuba diving, sailing and surfing. For fish lovers, the lobster season is open most of the year, while music fans can enjoy great music at the annual Emancipation Festival. Although you can’t travel directly to the BVI, there are plenty of connecting flights from London via Antigua and Puerto Rico.
Legal overview Areas of demand Litigation, corporate, finance, funds Qualifications NQ+ Practising certificate from England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland Salary range $135,000-$200,000+ Work permit Required for expats
“Since the introduction of a dedicated commercial court in the jurisdiction, we have seen an increased demand for talented litigators. Given that tax rates are at 8%, associates are rewarded well” Thomas Hartwell Associate Director (Legal)
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“Guernsey and Jersey continue to attract top talent from the City and elsewhere in the UK – offering the full spectrum of offshore legal work at an equally high standard” Chloe Lam-Moores Manager (Legal)
Guernsey The market in Guernsey remains at its busiest across the Finance, Corporate, Funds, Litigation and Private Client areas – from NQ to senior and partner level.
Jersey With opportunities across all transactional areas as well as disputes, Jersey is a popular destination for international associates looking for highquality work.
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Guernsey The two most well-known Channel Islands are very different. Guernsey provides the perfect antidote to city life with its resplendent beaches,
Guernsey
Capital: St Peter Port Size: 78km Population: 63,711 Tax: 20%
eclectic and intriguing location. There are regular scheduled flights to various destinations across the east coast of the US, Toronto and London (which is a seven-hour flight away). There are daily flights to Guernsey from London (Gatwick, Stansted and London City) and many other major UK airports, including East Midlands, Birmingham, Manchester, Southampton and Exeter.
rolling countryside and cliff-top walks. The island boasts 27 bays and an 800-year-old fortress: Castle Cornet. St Peter Port and its quaint harbour offers a vibrant café and bar culture as well as beautiful gardens, museums and art galleries. For history lovers among you, look no further than The Guernsey Tapestry. The British, North American, African, Portuguese and West Indian cultural influences are reflected in the local architecture and cuisine – making Bermuda an
Legal overview Areas of demand Litigation, corporate, finance, funds, private client and trust Salary range £75,000 - £150,000+ Work permit Required if not a British or EEA passport holder Housing Licence This is a requirement and dealt with by your employer Other Litigators can be admitted to the local bar (‘some’ exams taken in Caen, France) but only if you’re considering staying long term
“From NQ to senior and partner level, you’ll enjoy a competitive salary bonus package in Guernsey. Although the cost of living is on a par with the UK, income and sales tax rates are lower, so your buying power is considerably higher” Chloe Lam-Moores Manager (Legal)
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Jersey Much like its neighbour, Jersey also provides a fantastic quality of life and beach lifestyle – all in a radius of 45 square miles!
Jersey
Capital: St Helier Size: 119.5km2 Population: 107,080 Tax: 20%
island is home to the Durrell Wildlife Park, which was the first conservation-themed zoo. Jersey has an annual air show, its own sea sports centre and a rugby team. Well served by all the leading larger and budget airlines, there are plenty of daily flights from Jersey to and from London and many of the UK’s major cities.
You’ll find all the big luxury brands to satisfy your shopping sprees and the finest dining establishments. To cap off your evening in style, you can take in the grandeur of the Opera House, one of the island’s iconic establishments. Animal lovers will revel in the glorious natural landscapes. The
Legal overview Areas of demand Litigation, corporate, finance, funds, private client and trust Salary range £70,000 - 150,000+ Work permit Required if not a British or EEA passport holder Housing Licence This is a requirement and dealt with by your employer Other Associates can elect to be admitted to the local bar but only if considering staying long term
“There are many opportunities each year for trainees as many firms don’t have their own. The same applies for mid to senior level roles. Like its neighbour, Jersey offers an attractive tax regime and a fantastic
quality of life” Chloe Lam-Moores Manager (Legal)
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Asia Asia has become a key growth area for offshore firms. Many lawyers are attracted to both Singapore and Hong Kong, as they provide excellent opportunities for those who feel that island life may not be for them but who are keen to undertake offshore work. Corporate and funds are the big demand areas – previous offshore experience is also highly sought after.
Middle-East There are several offshore firms, centred around Dubai, traditionally focused on transactional work but who have recently expanded into the contentious space. Although previous regional experience is ideal, it is not always a prerequisite. Much like Asia, the Middle East is a great alternative for those keen to undertake offshore work.
Mauritius A tropical island paradise, Mauritius can match all other offshore locations for stunning scenery, sandy white beaches and exotic wildlife. The locals are renowned for their hospitality and with a fusion of French, Indian, Creole and Chinese influences, the culinary experience is second to none. There is strong demand for in-house expertise, especially corporate, finance and litigation. Working in private practice can be trickier for non- Mauritians.
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Get in touch Each destination has its own special character and charm. The requirements for practising lawyers vary so it’s important to be prepared. Working and living abroad is a big step, therefore you must do as much research as you can beforehand. We’re here to help and answer your questions! Thomas Hartwell Thomas heads up our International Legal practice, which includes our Offshore practice that he set up in 2011. Specialising in
international legal recruitment, he places lawyers in both private practice and in-house in the Caribbean, Channel Islands and wider offshore jurisdictions. A law graduate, Thomas is based in our City of London head office. E: thomashartwell@hydrogengroup.com T: +44 (0)20 7002 0217 Chloe Lam-Moores Chloe came to Hydrogen in 2015 after graduating with a 2.1 LLB. She currently manages the Offshore practice, focusing on the recruitment of lawyers across the Channel Islands and the Caribbean, both in private practice and in-house. She is also based in London. E: chloelam-moores@hydrogengroup.com T: +44 (0)20 7002 0143 Nicolas Corvi Nicolas is a Principal Consultant in the Offshore legal practice at Hydrogen. He joined in 2020, having gained 2 years’ experience in the London legal recruitment market beforehand. He focuses on placing qualified lawyers into both private practice and in-house roles across the Caribbean, Channel Islands and London. Nicolas is based in Hydrogen’s City of London head office. E: nicolascorvi@hydrogengroup.com T: +44 (0)77 7682 2209
At Hydrogen Group, we enable people to live healthier, happier, more fulfilling and more successful lives in a rapidly changing world. We do this every day by giving people the tools they need to thrive. We know what works for one person, or business, won’t suit another. Our purpose is to enable you to thrive in a changing world. By doing this, we will ensure that the people we work with feel good about themselves and are able to thrive, at work and in life. This in turn will lead to better outcomes for our business, and our candidates.
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