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.

Lucy Holmes

January 23, 2026

Definitely recommended Ben Stockton

Ben Stockton is a very straightforward, honest and professional individual who is proactive and extremely easy to work with. We met Ben and moved our savings immediately, that is how much we liked and trusted him… Definitely recommended and we are extremely happy with what he has done for us financially.

Richard Jackson

January 23, 2026

Ben Stockton helped my wife and I choose a critical illness cover plan.

I would highly recommend Ben Stockton after he helped my wife and I choose a critical illness cover plan. Ben was extremely professional and we never felt that he was trying to sell us a product; he explained all the pros and cons and took into account our individual financial needs to advise us on what product worked best for us. He has also been managing our long term investment portfolio, he is always available to answer questions and we feel 100% comfortable with him managing our policies and investments.

Maria ugenia Celentano

January 22, 2026

Thomas Sleep’s approach and expertise have benefited me on both a personal and financial level.

As an expatriate looking to organise and plan my finances, I wanted to share my positive experience with Thomas Sleep and Skybound Wealth because I know it can help others. Thomas took the time to understand my situation and created a plan tailored to my needs. I really appreciated his patience in explaining everything clearly and his availability to answer questions throughout the process. Even if you initially think financial advisors are intended only for experienced investors or big companies, or are an unnecessary expense, Thomas’s approach and expertise have benefited me on both a personal and financial level. I also valued his transparency regarding their qualifications and certifications, which reinforced my trust in them.

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