If you’re considering transferring your UK pension overseas, the recent changes to QROPS rules could significantly impact your retirement plans—especially if you’re heading to popular destinations like France, Portugal or Spain. From 30 October 2024, the UK government has removed the exemption from the Overseas Transfer Charge (OTC) for transfers to QROPS (Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Schemes) in the EEA and Gibraltar. In this article, I’ll explain what these changes mean, how they affect QROPS transfers…
If you’ve been living overseas for years but are now considering a return to the UK, the recent budget changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT) could significantly affect your financial planning. From April 2025, the UK government is introducing new rules that shift the focus of IHT liability from your domicile status to your residency history.
After spending time living and working in Saudi Arabia, moving back to the UK can be a significant transition. Whether you’ve been an expat for a few years or several decades, repatriation involves practical, emotional, and financial adjustments. From managing your finances to understanding tax implications and preparing for lifestyle changes, planning is key to ensuring a smooth return. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of moving back to the UK from Saudi Arabia. Preparing for Your…
Relocating to Saudi Arabia is a bold step that opens up a world of opportunities, from tax-free income to a thriving expat community and the chance to experience a rich and unique culture. However, moving to Saudi Arabia from the UK involves more than just booking a flight and packing your bags. There are essential financial, legal, and lifestyle considerations to plan for. In this guide, we’ll explore the key aspects of moving to Saudi Arabia, share practical…
Moving to Saudi Arabia can be an exciting and life-changing decision, offering opportunities to experience a unique culture, benefit from tax-free income, and work in a rapidly developing economy. However, as an expat in Riyadh or elsewhere in Saudi Arabia, financial planning can be complex. Proper financial advice is essential to ensure your wealth grows, you comply with legal requirements, and you plan for your future.
On 30 October 2024, the UK government announced sweeping updates to the inheritance tax rules affecting UK residents who are not domiciled in the UK—commonly known as “non-doms.” Below, I’ll break down the main changes in a straightforward way to help you understand what these new rules could mean for you.
On 30 October 2024, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, announced major changes to the tax rules for UK-resident, non-UK domiciled individuals, often known as “non-doms”. These changes will affect how non-doms are taxed on foreign income and gains, marking a shift in the way the UK handles cross-border income. Here, I’ll break down these new tax rules in straightforward terms, with a focus on the Foreign Income and Gains (FIG) Regime and what it means for you.
The dust is still settling on last week’s Budget. Things like increased National Insurance Contributions and a higher government borrowing ceiling have already been picked apart by the mainstream media. However, in this post, I want to focus on a few areas that will be of interest to those of us who are either living outside the UK already or who are considering doing so.
The U.S. stock market, particularly its high-performing tech sector, consistently attracts international investors seeking growth and stability. However, for non-U.S. citizens or residents, investing in U.S. assets comes with a significant consideration— U.S. estate taxes. Without a clear understanding and careful planning, investors may face a substantial tax burden on their estates, impacting their families’ long-term financial security. This post outlines the essentials of U.S. estate taxes for Non-Resident Aliens (NRAs) and provides strategies to mitigate potential tax…
If you are considering transferring your UK pension overseas, you’ve likely encountered a bewildering array of jargon and regulations. Among the most important terms you’ll encounter are the Overseas Transfer Charge (OTC) and the Overseas Transfer Allowance (OTA).
With the abolition of the lifetime allowance (LTA) tax charges in April 2024, many individuals assume that they no longer need to worry about pension protections. However, there are still two forms of transitional protection available that can offer significant benefits: Fixed Protection 2016 (FP2016) and Individual Protection 2016 (IP2016). Both of these protections offer valuable safeguards, but understanding which one suits your specific circumstances is critical. This guide will help clarify the differences between the…
Have you planned thoroughly for your retirement and are well on your way to enjoying a secure and comfortable retirement, or perhaps it’s time to take a closer look at your retirement plan and make necessary adjustments to secure your future? Take our fun quiz to find out!
When it comes to UK inheritance tax (IHT) planning, many of us have heard about the seven-year rule. It’s a well-known part of the tax code that says if you give away assets during your lifetime, and survive for seven years after making the gift, those assets will typically be exempt from IHT when you pass away. But there’s another, less familiar rule that can complicate matters—the 14-year rule. If you’re serious about protecting your estate from unnecessary…
Transferring Irish pensions for those who have previously spent time working in Ireland is a fairly recent trend. Many people only become aware of their options as they near retirement, but by then, transferring benefits abroad might no longer be allowed. That’s why getting expert advice early on is crucial. While Ireland’s pension system is great for those who live and pay taxes there, moving abroad can introduce major complications. Often, these issues only come to light…
Retiring abroad is an exciting prospect, and for many UK citizens, Poland offers a wonderful blend of culture, affordable living, and proximity to the UK. As a result, it is increasingly becoming a popular destination for British expats , especially those who already have ties to the country, such as a Polish spouse. This guide will help you navigate the key considerations when planning your retirement to Poland, from residency requirements to healthcare, finances, and integrating into the…
With UK finances in quite a pickle, the upcoming Labour budget is expected to bring significant changes, especially in areas like taxation, pensions, and inheritance planning. As a British expat, these changes could have a serious impact on your financial planning. While it is always a good idea to review your financial plan regularly, the proposed changes make it especially important to reassess how you manage finances. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the…
Why Are So Many Wealthy Brits Moving to Dubai?
In recent years, a noticeable trend has emerged: an increasing number of wealthy British individuals are packing their bags and relocating to Dubai. This shift is not just a fleeting phenomenon but part of a broader movement of high-net-worth individuals seeking new opportunities and lifestyles abroad. But what exactly is driving this exodus? Why are so many wealthy Brits choosing Dubai over more traditional destinations like Spain, France, or the United…
For British expats living in Saudi Arabia, navigating the complexities of UK tax, retirement, and succession planning can be challenging. The financial landscape shifts when you move abroad, and understanding these changes is crucial to safeguarding your wealth and ensuring a secure future. In this blog post, we’ll break down the essentials of managing your UK tax obligations, planning for retirement, and preparing for succession while living as an expat in Saudi Arabia. UK Tax Considerations for Expats…
When it comes to planning for retirement, one of the most important questions you will face is: How much can I safely withdraw from my pensions and investments each year without risking running out of money? Answering this question is at the heart of the concept known as the “safe withdrawal rate.” Understanding the Safe Withdrawal Rate The safe withdrawal rate (SWR) is a guideline used by retirees to determine how much they can withdraw from their retirement…
The new Labour government is gearing up to make a major move on inheritance tax (IHT), and for British expats, this could be a monumental shift. What’s Changing? The government is planning to overhaul the rules around who gets hit with inheritance tax. Right now, your exposure to UK IHT is closely tied to your domicile – the country that HMRC deems to be your permanent home. This means that even if you’ve been enjoying the expat life…