Expat Pension Advisers

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Pension Review

Do you have an old, frozen UK pension which you intend to review but never get around to? If so, get in touch with us to discuss pension transfer options and fees today.

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UK Pension Transfer

When it comes to your pension, you have lots of options. From leaving your pension in the UK to transferring your UK pension, we can support you in making the right financial decisions for your future.

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SIPPs

There’s never been a better time for a Self-Invested Personal-Pension (SIPP). Simply put, it’s a straightforward UK based pension which, with the help of your financial adviser, allows you to take greater control of your pension fund.

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QROPS

A Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) is an international pension plan that’s recognised by HMRC.

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Why You Need Expat Pension Advice

Moving abroad is an exciting venture, but comes with different financial challenges, like understanding the different tax implications of your pension and understanding new financial laws.

Personalised Pension Strategies

Understanding International Regulations

Pension regulations differ significantly from one country to another, making it essential to understand the specific requirements and legal frameworks in each jurisdiction. Obtaining tailored, expert advice is crucial for ensuring not only compliance with local pension laws, but also for optimising benefits internationally.

Our personalised guidance can help avoid costly penalties, maximise retirement savings. We consider factors like tax implications, contribution limits, and legal obligations.

Mitigating Tax Liability

One of the most significant challenges faced by expats is understanding taxation across multiple jurisdictions. Managing tax compliance in both the UK and internationally can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why seeking specialist UK expat tax advice is crucial.

Risk Management

Managing pensions across multiple currencies introduces a challenge due to fluctuating exchange rates and varying economic conditions. Without proper planning, currency volatility can significantly impact the value of your pension, especially if you're receiving payments in a different currency to that of where you live. Professional pension advice is crucial in these scenarios, as it can provide tailored strategies to mitigate exchange rate risks.

Our team of expat pension advisers also offer guidance on various other topics to help you with the intricacies of expat retirement planning. These include:

Access to Global Options
Estate Planning Integration
Consolidated Retirement Plan

Our Approach to Investing

Talk to an Expat Wealth Manager

You can reach us directly by calling us between the hours of 8:30am and 5pm at each of our respective offices and we will immediately assist you.

Abu Dhabi - UAE (SCA)

+971 (0) 4450 9799

Dubai - UAE (IA)

+971 (0) 4450 9700

Geneva - Switzerland (ARIF)

+41 (0) 22 518 0286

How Your Expat Status Impacts Your Pension Options

Being an expat from the UK profoundly affects your pension choices and adds layers of complexity to your pension management. When you relocate to another country, various factors come into play that can influence your financial decisions regarding retirement funds. Understanding these complexities is crucial to making informed choices that align with your personal circumstances and future goals.

1. Continuing Contributions to Your UK Pensions

Contributions to UK pensions receive tax relief, allowing the UK Government to add money based on your contributions, which is particularly beneficial for higher-rate taxpayers. If you’re still employed by a UK company, you may receive employer contributions, so understanding your employer's policies on remote work is essential. Many pension plans also let you choose how your contributions are invested, enabling you to align investments with your risk tolerance and retirement goals, even while overseas.

2. Accessing Your Pensions While Abroad

Depending on your pension scheme, you may be able to withdraw funds while living abroad, but it's important to understand the rules, penalties, and tax implications in both the UK and your new country. If your pension payments are in GBP, be aware of currency conversion fees when converting to your local currency. Some providers offer regular payments to overseas accounts, which can help manage conversion costs and provide a steady income.

3. Joining Local Pension Schemes

When starting work in a new country, joining a local pension scheme can be beneficial, and understanding its relationship with your UK pensions is crucial for effective retirement planning. You may be required to contribute to a local scheme based on your employment status and local regulations, which can impact your overall retirement strategy.

Local pensions may differ in benefits, retirement ages, payout options, and survivor benefits compared to UK pensions. It's important to research these local schemes and explore whether you can transfer your UK pensions into the local scheme for easier management of your retirement savings.

4. Maintaining Multiple Pensions

Managing multiple pensions can complicate retirement planning. Consolidating them into a single scheme will simplify management and lower admin fees, but it can also reduce income diversity, increasing reliance on one source. Regularly monitoring the performance of all pension funds is essential, as they vary in risk, returns, and fees, affecting overall savings. Additionally, it's important to understand the legal and tax obligations of maintaining pensions in different jurisdictions, including reporting requirements and potential tax liabilities.

If you’re an expat living and working abroad, pension advice is invaluable knowledge to have. It can help optimise your retirement savings as well as deal with finances internationally.

Anyone from long-term expats and retirees to high-net-worth individuals can benefit from expert pension advice. Whatever your requirements, our knowledgeable team can provide you with valuable and personal guidance to help you secure your financial future.

Reviews from Other Expats Seeking Pension Advice

At Skybound Wealth, we offer transparent, expert expat pension advice services to support expats addressing their unique financial challenges. Our trusted advisers provide personalized solutions in tax planning, retirement strategies, and wealth management. Have a look at our long list of positive reviews from satisfied clients.

Jill V

Novartis

July 31, 2025

I appreciate Peter's knowledge and ability to explain in lay persons terms

I have known Peter for approximately 7 years. He is very supportive and understanding of my quite complex situation (working in Switzerland, living in France, returning to UK on retirement). I appreciate his knowledge and ability to explain in lay persons terms all the options available to me, and his oodles of patience when asked to repeat on multiple occasions. Retiring is a huge financial transition and Peter has provided good guidance on how to invest my pensions and savings, which has given me confidence that my chosen financial strategy will provide for my needs into the future.

Alana

July 30, 2025

I couldn’t have asked for a better guide on this journey

I am thrilled to share my experience with Nathan. As someone who was previously averse and weary about investments, I couldn’t have asked for a better guide on this journey. Nathan has been instrumental in helping me grow my property and investment portfolio, all while keeping my best interests at heart. What I appreciate most about Nathan is his consistent focus on the end game, retirement. He has laid out a clear, strategic plan that has instilled confidence in me for the future. With Nathan by my side, I feel assured that we are on the right path to achieving my retirement goals. I wholeheartedly recommend Nathan to anyone looking for expert and dedicated financial guidance!

Mercy

July 30, 2025

Nathan has a remarkable ability to simplify complex financial matters while delivering tailored, thoughtful advice.

Working with Nathan Mpofu has been a seamless and rewarding experience. Our journey began in 2022 when he provided full support in securing an offshore bank account in a tax-efficient jurisdiction, an important step in safeguarding hard-earned savings and meeting long-term financial goals. Since then, we’ve developed a comprehensive financial plan with strategic investments across the property and securities markets. Nathan has a remarkable ability to simplify complex financial matters while delivering tailored, thoughtful advice. It has truly been a pleasure working with him. His professionalism, insight and unwavering commitment to client success consistently stand out. With clarity, care and integrity, he makes even the most intricate decisions accessible and manageable. Nathan approaches every interaction with patience and purpose, taking time to understand not just the numbers but the person behind them. He brings a rare blend of technical skill and human touch that sets him apart in this field. I’ve always felt confident in the decisions we’ve made together, and I have every confidence that anyone fortunate enough to work with Nathan will feel equally supported and empowered.

What Pension Schemes Are Available for Expats?

1. Investing in a SIPP

A Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) provides a way to manage your pension investments actively while enjoying tax benefits. This option is particularly appealing for expats who prefer a hands-on approach to their retirement savings. However, you should consider the tax implications in both the UK and your new country, as well as the potential costs associated with managing a SIPP from abroad.

2. Transferring to a QROPS

A Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) allows you to transfer your UK pension into a scheme based in your new country of residence. This option offers potential tax advantages and flexibility, such as greater control over investment choices. However, it's essential to conduct thorough research, as not all QROPS are created equal, and some may come with high fees or less favourable terms.

3. Local Pension Schemes

Enrolling in a local pension scheme can be advantageous, especially if you plan to stay in your new country long-term. Many countries offer pension systems that provide benefits based on local employment. Understanding the rules and benefits of these schemes is essential, as they can differ significantly from the UK pension system. Additionally, you may need to consider how your contributions will affect your overall retirement strategy.

Check Out Our Other Expat Financial Advice Services

Moving abroad can often feel like a daunting fresh start, especially when it comes to managing your finances. It’s common to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your financial options in a new country. That’s why we offer comprehensive expat financial advice tailored to your unique situation. Whether you need assistance with investment strategies or ensuring your estate is in order, our dedicated financial advisers are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your financial needs are fully supported.

International School Fees

Inheritance Tax Planning

Trust Planning & Wills

Health, Life & Income Insurance

Retirement Planning

Repatriation

Get in touch with Skybound Wealth Management

With over 20 years of experience and multiple international advisory awards under our belt, our independent, internationally regulated team is equipped to deliver customised financial plans and pension guidance. We ensure that we adopt a transparent approach and provide you with expert advice every step of the way. This is achieved through either face to face interactions, interactive web meetings, or a combination of both. And as a Skybound Wealth client you can access your investment portfolio 24/7.

Our clients consistently rate us with 5-star reviews, reflecting our commitment to excellence. Reach out to our knowledgeable team today for comprehensive advice tailored specifically to the needs of expats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay into a UK pension from abroad?

You can keep paying into a UK pension after leaving the country. Contributions can only be made to an existing UK pension scheme, allowing you to pay up to 100% of your earnings for the tax year you left, and £3,600 annually for the next five years.

How long does a pension transfer take?

Pension transfers that are done electronically should take between 10 and 20 working days. However, manual transfers may take longer, approximately at least two months to process.

Can I access my pension early?

To access your pension before the age of 55, you must meet certain criteria. This includes circumstances such as ill health or working in a profession that has a protected retirement age (PRA), typically found in industries like the military or sports. Contact our knowledgeable team to find out more.

Pension Review

UK Pension Transfer

SIPPs

QROPS