International Tax Advisor: Tax Assistance for a Smooth Relocation
Relocating is a huge life event with challenges interspersed with excitement. Tax considerations can be front and centre when relocating abroad. Whether you need to negotiate favourable tax terms, plan your finances, set up multi-jurisdictional trade and taxes, or comply with local tax laws, our expert international tax accountants can guide you through the process to ensure you comply with all your tax obligations.
From double taxation treaties to corporation tax, family tax credits to tying up loose ends domestically, our experts help you avoid penalties while ensuring compliance and optimising your finances. Call us on +44 (0)333 414 9244 or contact us online for immediate support.Â
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Clear, practical, and personal tax guidance on every step of your international move
Relocating abroad should expand horizons, not create tax headaches. Immigration Advice Service (IAS) combines specialist international tax lawyers, chartered accountants, and experienced relocation advisers, delivering cohesive international tax services that keep you compliant and tax‑efficient before, during, and after your move.
Expert International Tax Advisory Services
Changing countries means new rules on residency, reporting, payroll, capital gains, and inheritance. An IAS international tax advisor reviews your circumstances, the treaty between the two tax jurisdictions, and the ideal timing of key transactions so you relocate on the strongest possible footing.
- Navigating the international tax landscape – We help you to understand the tax regulations and avoid double taxation when operating in different tax jurisdictions, while continuing trade internationally.
- Residency analysis – identify the date you cease to be resident at home and start in the host state, using tests such as the UK Statutory Residence Test or the IRS Substantial Presence Test to prove your new tax status.
- Departure and arrival filings – prepare split‑year returns, self-assessments, exit tax declarations, and first‑year statements in your destination.
- Income and asset mapping – align salary, bonuses, dividends, rent, ISAs, pensions, and share options with the most favourable tax location. We can support you with profit shifting and advise on the tax implications of business decisions.Â
The OECD estimates that inadequate planning costs mobile professionals an average of £8,750 in avoidable tax during their first two years overseas.
Who We Help
Employees & secondments
Payroll structuring, benefit‑in‑kind analysis, and moving overseas tax advice that dovetails with employer policies.
Entrepreneurs & contractors
Corporate residence planning, tax planning, and dividend optimisation.
Private individuals & families
Coordinated advice on property, trusts, tax compliance, and future inheritances.
High‑net worth clients
Bespoke strategies for multi‑jurisdiction portfolios, yachts, art, and family offices.
Relocation assistance worldwide, wherever you are going to and from
Wherever you are moving to, we help you prepare for all aspects of an overseas move.
Our International Tax Services
Cross‑Border Tax Compliance
- Treaty‑based reliefs and double‑taxation exemptions.
- Consolidated filings in both home and host states.
- Audit defence and direct liaison with tax authorities.
Pre‑Departure & Arrival Planning
- Choose the most tax‑efficient relocation date (for example, leaving before a new tax legislation is released, or after a favourable one)
- Reorganise shareholdings, crypto, and property before residency switches.
- Preserve pension and social‑security accrual across borders.
Support for Expats and Employees on Assignment
- Create tax assistance services that stabilise net pay through tax equalisation or protection arrangements.
- Optimise employer‑provided housing, relocation allowances, and schooling support.
- Preserve pension and social‑security accrual across borders.
Tailored Services for Individuals & Families
- Estate, domicile, and inheritance planning that respects competing regimes.
- Joint filing and child‑benefit considerations when relocating with dependents.
- Guidance on capital‑gains rollover relief when selling a former main residence.
Working with Global Partners
- Collaboration with vetted professionals in global jurisdictions.
- Engagement letter, shared document vault, and consolidated billing.
- Local‑language representation at audits or disputes.
Cross‑Border Example
Example: British marketing director seconded to the United States for three years.
Challenge: Avoid UK‑US double taxation on share options and maintain UK non‑residence.
IAS action:
- Deferred option exercise until after UK departure.
- Filed Form 2555 to use the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion and arranged a payroll gross‑up.
- Confirmed continuing UK pension contributions under Article 17 of the treaty.
Outcome: £42,600 tax saving and fully compliant returns on both sides.
Integrated Banking and Investment Coordination
When you change residence, banks, brokers, and pension trustees often alter or close accounts, creating surprise disposals. IAS speaks to providers to
- Keep platforms open under non‑resident terms,
- Preserve acquisition data for future gains, and
- Time rebalancing with your new tax start date.
We also review ISA, 401(k), and superannuation rules, advising whether to convert, roll over, or leave in place. This delivers holistic moving abroad tax advice rather than quick fixes.
In 2023, 28 % of UK expatriates faced forced ISA closures within six months of departure; early action prevents such exits.
Departure versus Arrival Tax Windows
Some countries levy an exit charge (e.g., Canada’s deemed‑disposition tax); others apply an entry step‑up (Australia’s market‑value reset). By modelling both windows, we can sequence property sales, option exercise,s or bonus payments so the income is taxed once and at the lowest rate.
Global Treaty Coverage
IAS monitors more than 3,000 double‑tax treaties and social‑security agreements, updating our database so your advice reflects every new protocol or amending note.
Tax Compliance
Penalties for incorrect expatriate returns have tightened. France now levies interest of 0.2 % per month on undeclared overseas accounts, while Australia’s failure‑to‑lodge fines reached AUS $ 1,565 in 2024. Our proactive monitoring ensures you never miss a deadline.
Quick Checklist Before You Move
- Confirm residency cessation date with your current revenue authority.
- Obtain tax clearance or exit certificate where required (e.g., South Africa, Canada).
- Download historical statements from banks and brokers—you may lose access once abroad.
- Verify standing instructions for mortgage or student‑loan repayments; interest relief can depend on residency.
- Schedule a review six months after arrival: early adjustments close gaps before penalties arise.
Arrange Your Consultation
Professional relocation tax assistance protects wealth and peace of mind. Whether you need moving overseas tax advice, an international tax lawyer to defend an audit, or ongoing guidance for a long‑term assignment, IAS can help.
Call +44 (0)333 414 9244 or complete our online form to speak with an international tax expert today.
IAS Tax Planning: How It Works
Step 1: Book Your Consultation
Speak with an international tax advisor to assess your circumstances.
Step 2: Personalised Tax Planning
We design a custom financial and tax strategy based on your move, income, and residency goals.
Step 3: Pre-Departure & Arrival Support
Receive detailed advice before and after your move to ensure smooth transitions.
Step 4: Ongoing Global Compliance
We stay with you every step of the way, helping manage tax issues year after year.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents will appear here.Frequently Asked Questions
They ensure compliance, avoid double taxation, and develop tax-efficient structures for international operations.
Navigating treaty rules, understanding local tax codes, and staying compliant across multiple jurisdictions.
Yes, they assess your corporate setup and advise on entity structuring to reduce tax liabilities.
They avoid penalties, optimise savings, and ensure full compliance with global income and asset declarations.
Brexit has changed how UK nationals are taxed in the EU. Tax advisors ensure clients adapt to new cross-border regulations.
