Dreaming of swapping the British drizzle for Mediterranean sunshine? Think again! Retiring abroad, once a tempting escape for Brits, is now a complicated and expensive minefield.
The lure of retiring abroad is undeniable. It promises a higher quality of life, affordable living, and a chance to escape the UK’s grey skies. Research from Arbuthnot Latham shows that nearly 60% of wealthy Brits are considering moving abroad, mainly for a better lifestyle. Spain, France, Italy, and Portugal are popular destinations, but experts are warning that the sun may not be shining as brightly as it once did.
Tax Headaches and Legal Loopholes
Countries are becoming more savvy about tax regimes, closing loopholes and making it harder for expats to enjoy the perks they used to. The UK’s changing tax situation, coupled with the uncertainty surrounding Brexit, is making it even more challenging to plan a comfortable retirement abroad.
Pensions – A Double-Edged Sword
While many Brits dream of retiring on a sunny beach, reality bites when it comes to pensions. The state pension, for example, doesn’t increase for those living outside the European Economic Area. This means thousands of expats are missing out on much-needed top-ups.
Planning your pension before leaving the UK is essential. Post-Brexit, transferring funds and buying annuities overseas is a bureaucratic nightmare. With HMRC still working on new legislation, transferring pensions to overseas schemes can lead to double-taxation.
Inheritance Tax – A Complex Maze
The UK’s inheritance tax (IHT) is another major hurdle. Although the government plans to change the rules, making IHT residence-based, it’s still uncertain if or when this will happen.
Will Writing – A Foreign Affair
Wills are another area where things can go wrong. The UK allows you to leave your assets to anyone you choose, but countries like Spain, France, and Portugal have strict laws that protect certain heirs, like children and grandchildren.
Finding Financial Help – A Difficult Task
Navigating the complexities of retiring abroad requires expert financial advice, but finding qualified advisors can be a real challenge. Brexit has limited the ability of UK advisors to operate in the EU, and finding reliable help overseas can be tough.
Expect to Pay More
Not only is good advice hard to find, but you can expect to pay a premium for it. Many European advisors work on a commission model, which can be opaque and confusing.
The Bottom Line: Proceed With Caution
Retiring abroad might sound like a dream, but the reality is far more complex and expensive than many imagine. Before you pack your bags, get professional financial advice, do your research, and be prepared to navigate a minefield of regulations, taxes, and potential pitfalls.