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What is Expatriate Tax Understanding the Differences for UK and Non-UK Citizens

Courtney Griffiths

June 20, 2024

Tax
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Expatriate tax, often referred to as expat tax, is important for individuals who live and work outside their home country. Navigating the complexities of expatriate tax can be challenging, especially when dealing with different tax systems and regulations.

This blog aims to clarify what expatriate tax entails, focusing on the differences between the tax obligations for UK and non-UK citizens.

Understanding Expatriate Tax

Expatriate tax refers to the tax obligations that expatriates—people living outside their native country—must meet. These taxes can encompass various types of income, including salaries, bonuses, investment income, and rental income from properties. The tax rules for expatriates are influenced by both the home country (country of origin) and the host country (country of residence).

Key Considerations for Expatriate Tax

  1. Tax Residency Status: Determining your tax residency status is the first step in understanding your expatriate tax obligations. Tax residency can affect which country has the right to tax your income and what type of income is taxable.

  2. Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs): Many countries have agreements to prevent individuals from being taxed twice on the same income. These agreements outline which country has the primary right to tax different types of income.

  3. Foreign Income Reporting: Expatriates often need to report foreign income to their home country, even if it is earned and taxed abroad.

  4. Tax Relief and Exemptions: Some countries offer tax relief or exemptions for expatriates to reduce their overall tax burden.

  5. Social Security totalisation agreements: Some countries have agreed on how social security will be assessed between them.  This is to avoid paying two sets of social security charges.

Expatriate Tax for UK Citizens

Tax Residency Rules

In the UK, the Statutory Residence Test (SRT) determines an individual’s tax residency status. The SRT considers factors such as the number of days spent in the UK, ties to the UK (like family, property, and work), and the number of days worked in the UK.

  • UK Resident: If deemed a UK resident, an individual is subject to UK tax on their worldwide income.

  • Non-UK Resident: If deemed a non-UK resident, an individual is generally only taxed on their UK-sourced income.

Tax Obligations

  • Worldwide Income: UK residents, unless non-domiciled, must report and pay tax on all income, regardless of where it is earned.

  • Non-Resident Relief: Non-residents only need to report and pay tax on income sourced from the UK, which can include rental income, UK employment income, and UK pensions.

Tax Reliefs and Agreements

  • Foreign Tax Credit Relief: UK residents may claim relief for foreign taxes paid on the same income to avoid double taxation.

  • Double Taxation Agreements: The UK has numerous DTAs that can help expatriates manage their tax liabilities.

Expatriate Tax for Non-UK Citizens

Tax Residency Rules

Non-UK citizens working in the UK need to determine their residency status using the SRT. Residency status affects their tax obligations.

  • UK Resident: If a non-UK citizen becomes a UK resident, they are subject to UK tax on their worldwide income.
  • Non-UK Resident: If they remain non-residents, they are only taxed on their UK-sourced income.

Tax Obligations

  • UK Income Tax: Non-UK citizens who are UK residents must report and pay tax on their global income.
  • Non-Resident Tax: Non-residents are taxed on UK-sourced income, similar to UK citizens.

Tax Reliefs and Agreements

  • Personal Allowance: Non-UK residents may be entitled to a personal allowance (a tax-free amount of income) if they are citizens of an EEA country or countries with specific agreements with the UK.
  • Double Taxation Agreements: DTAs can provide relief from being taxed twice on the same income.
tax professionals who specialize in expatriate tax

Non-Domiciled Status and Remittance Basis

Non-Domiciled Status

In addition to tax residency, the UK tax system recognizes the concept of domicile. Domicile is generally the country you consider your permanent home and intend to return to. It’s a broader and more permanent concept than residency.

  • Domiciled Individuals: Typically, UK-domiciled individuals are subject to UK tax on their worldwide income.
  • Non-Domiciled Individuals: Non-domiciled individuals can choose to be taxed on the remittance basis, which can offer significant tax advantages.

Remittance Basis

Non-domiciled individuals who are residents in the UK can opt for the remittance basis of taxation. Under this basis:

  • Taxation on UK Income: All UK income and gains are taxed in the usual way.
  • Taxation on Foreign Income: Foreign income and gains are only taxed if they are brought (remitted) into the UK.
  • Remittance Basis Charge: After seven years of UK residence, a remittance basis charge applies. This charge increases with the length of residence:
    • £30,000 for residents of at least 7 out of the previous 9 tax years.
    • £60,000 for residents of at least 12 out of the previous 14 tax years.
    • After 15 years of residence, individuals are deemed domiciled in the UK and cannot use the remittance basis.

Benefits and Considerations

  • Benefits: The remittance basis can be highly beneficial for individuals with significant foreign income and gains, as it allows them to avoid UK tax on that income as long as it remains outside the UK.
  • Considerations: Opting for the remittance basis means losing certain UK tax allowances and reliefs, such as the personal allowance and the capital gains tax annual exempt amount. Additionally, individuals must carefully manage the remittance of funds to avoid unexpected tax liabilities. After 6 years of tax residence in the UK a non-domicile tax payer has to pay a charge to access the remittance basis.

Potential Changes to the Non-Dom Regime

It’s important to note that the UK government periodically reviews and updates its tax policies, including the rules surrounding non-domiciled status and the remittance basis. Recently, there have been discussions and announcements about potential changes to the non-dom regime. These changes could include the abolition of the remittance basis entirely.  It is proposed that there will be a four-year period of tax-free foreign income and capital gains on commencing residence.

Given these potential changes, non-domiciled individuals should stay informed about legislative developments and consider seeking professional advice to understand how future changes might impact their tax position.

Practical Tips for Managing Expatriate Tax

  1. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with tax laws in both your home and host countries.
  2. Seek Professional Advice: Consult with tax professionals who specialize in expatriate tax to ensure compliance and optimize your tax position.
  3. Keep Detailed Records: Maintain thorough records of your income, taxes paid, and any correspondence with tax authorities.
  4. Understand Deadlines: Be aware of tax filing deadlines in both your home and host countries to avoid penalties.

Conclusion

Expatriate tax can be complex, but understanding the basics and differences between UK and non-UK citizens’ obligations, along with the special provisions like non-domiciled status and the remittance basis, can help you navigate your tax responsibilities more effectively. Whether you’re a UK citizen living abroad or a non-UK citizen working in the UK, being proactive and informed is key to managing your expatriate tax obligations successfully. Additionally, staying aware of potential changes to the non-dom regime will ensure you can adapt and plan accordingly to maintain compliance and optimize your tax situation.

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