What is a QROPS?
QROPS is short for Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme, a type of overseas pension scheme that meets criteria laid down by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and enabled by EU human rights legislation.
With QROPS it is possible to transfer UK pension benefits without any sanctions or charges. French QROPS are available to those who have lived and worked in the UK but who intend to retire and live in France – this is true for those who were born in the UK as well as those who were born elsewhere.
Confidence in the face of currency fluctuations
With economists predicting fluctuations in the value of the pound over the foreseeable future, transferring to a QROPS in France could help mitigate against this risk while also being part of a sound wealth management plan.
Furthermore, a QROPS transfer can be useful in providing both greater scope for investment and for inheritance planning.
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This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, investment recommendations or investment research. You should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this communication is correct, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions.
HM Revenue & Customs has introduced new regulations to make it easier to reclaim the QROPS overseas pension transfer charge. The rules came into effect on April 25, 2019 following a decision by the House of Commons on April 3, 2019.
One of the most common questions asked of expat financial services firms is what should clients do with their pensions. Some wish to keep all their money in a UK-based pension, some will look to transfer to a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) and others will want to take a tax-free lump sum from their fund. In short, what an individual chooses to do will depend heavily on their personal circumstances together with any advice they receive from their expat financial services professional.