Leaving the UK

Choosing the right country is the first and most important step when leaving the UK. Factors such as visa eligibility, cost of living, taxation and job opportunities should be carefully assessed to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

View ‘UK Government Visa and Residency Requirements’ for your chosen destination.

Before you leave the UK, consider your ideal destination. Important factors to consider include:

• Visa and Residency Requirements: Can UK nationals live there (if its within the European Union) easily after Brexit?

Understanding the legal requirements for moving from UK is essential. Each country has different visa and residency rules, and ensuring compliance with tax regulations and legal documentation will help avoid complications down the road.

Notify HMRC you are ‘Leaving the UK’ to claim any tax refund.

• Research the visa application process for your destination.
• Consider permanent residency or citizenship options.
• Check whether UK citizens require special permits post-Brexit.

The UK Autumn Budget 2024 has introduced major tax reforms that significantly affect British expats, particularly those with UK assets or inheritance tax (IHT) exposure. The shift from a domicile-based system to a residency-based tax regime changes how UK inheritance tax applies to individuals leaving the UK permanently.

If you are planning to move abroad, it’s crucial to understand how these changes impact your tax position, succession planning, and liability under UK double taxation agreements.

• Leaving the UK P85: Expats must complete Form P85 when leaving the UK to inform HMRC and claim any tax refunds.
  Need more help? Visit this page to understand your tax obligations and how to ‘Minimise your Tax Exposure before Moving Abroad.’
• Avoiding Double Taxation: If your new country has a UK double taxation agreement, you may be able to offset UK tax against foreign liabilities, reducing unnecessary tax payments.
• UK Statutory Residency Test (SRT) Compliance: If you still have UK ties (family, property or business interests), you must check your SRT status to avoid unexpected UK tax residency classification.

Use ‘HMRC’s Statutory Residence Test’ to check if you are still a UK tax resident.

Managing your finances is crucial when planning to relocate abroad. From handling UK bank accounts to understanding tax obligations and securing pensions, taking financial & legal considerations in advance will help you avoid unexpected challenges.

Visit this UK Government-backed site with ‘Free Guidance on Pensions, Tax and Finances for UK Expats.’

• Decide whether to keep UK bank accounts for international transactions.
• Open an offshore bank account if needed.
• Research international banks offering expat-friendly services.

When moving abroad from the UK, understanding how your pensions are taxed and paid is crucial. Depending on your new country of residence, you may benefit from a QROPS or international SIPP and your state pension may or may not receive annual uprating.

• Plan for fluctuating exchange rates and international money transfers.
• Use currency hedging strategies to manage financial risk.
• Research services offering low-cost international money transfers.

• Research job opportunities if moving from UK for work.
• Understand business registration laws if setting up a company.
• Network with local professionals to explore career prospects.

• Decide whether to rent or buy property.
• Work with legal experts for conveyancing and mortgage solutions.
• Research different neighbourhoods for safety, accessibility, and cost of living.

Make Your Transition Easy! How do I move to another country? Get expert relocation support for Moving from UK.