Consultation launched on beneficial ownership transparency

Friday 27 February 2026

The Policy & Resources Committee has today launched a public consultation on proposals to introduce a legitimate interest access framework for beneficial ownership information of Guernsey companies.

A 'legitimate interest access' framework would provide access to beneficial ownership information to those with a legitimate interest only. This includes journalists and non-governmental organisations that have a specific role in fighting financial crime.

Guernsey is at the forefront of international standards of beneficial ownership transparency, as demonstrated during the MONEYVAL mutual evaluation published in 2025, and this latest step is further evidence of its commitment.

The proposed approach seeks to enhance transparency in line with evolving international and EU standards while maintaining the island's longstanding commitment to protecting privacy and personal data. Under the framework, individuals who can demonstrate a legitimate interest connected to the prevention, detection, or investigation of financial crime may apply for access to limited beneficial ownership information through a secure, case-by-case application process managed by The Guernsey Registry.

The consultation also sets out a series of safeguards - including strict limitations on disclosure, exemptions for vulnerable individuals, and controls on data use - to ensure proportionality and compliance with human rights obligations.

Deputy Gavin St. Pier, Vice President of the Policy & Resources Committee, said:

'Guernsey is committed to continue being a responsible and well-regulated international finance centre. These proposals represent a balanced and carefully considered step that strengthens our contribution to global efforts to combat financial crime while ensuring that the privacy and safety of individuals remain firmly protected. We are inviting views from industry, media, NGOs and the wider community to help us shape a system that is robust, secure, and internationally credible.'

A copy of the consultation document is available here:

https://www.gov.gg/article/207410/Consultation-on-beneficial-ownership-transparency.

Responses to the consultation should be submitted by email to [email protected] with the subject line "Beneficial Ownership - Legitimate Interest Access - Consultation Response" by the close of business on 10 April 2026.