Contact

News & Insights

Will Brexit provoke ‘travel tax’ for UK residents?

The EU Commission said the system of security checks is necessary to prevent terrorists entering the open-borders area, but UK Brexit critics warned it is further evidence of the hidden cost of quitting the Union.  Under the system, countries from outside the EU which do not require a full visa to travel to the bloc, will now pay a five Euro fee and must complete an online form.  The EU’s security commissioner has attempted to justify the charge by saying that it is an anti-terrorism measure.  What is not clear is what effect this will have on ex-pats travelling back and forth to the UK.

MPs have latched on to the potential charge as another hidden cost of Brexit and an example of how Brits could be disadvantaged compared to other EU residents.  Citing the move as a hidden tax and extra paperwork adding to the impact of the poor exchange rate on British travellers.  The proposals were to be discussed last Friday and the Home Secretary is seeking clarity on how Brits can continue to enjoy free and easy travel within the EU.

This appears to be another piece of evidence of the negative effect of leaving the EU for UK people in Spain. The adverse exchange rate prompted by the Brexit vote is still causing hardship amongst ex-pats coupled with the appalling returns on savings. 

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.

Other News

CSG Changes for Expats in France

Couple holding handsThe wealth management plans of many expats in France have received a welcome boost with an announcement by the French government that there will be a reduction in the rate of social charges on investment income, meaning that low income expats will now be subject to a 7.5% charge compared to the previous 17.2% rate. However, the basic rates will remain as they were in 2018.

The news, which was announced as part of the social security budget for 2019, is of particular interest to expats in retirement as well as those who draw investment income. It also benefits those who do not live in France but receive income from investments in the country.

Read More

Expats want clear plan

Houses of ParliamentBritish expats who are uncertain what they should do regarding their regular savings plans are hopefully reassured by Theresa May’s announcement that she wishes to secure the status of expats in the European Union at an early stage during the Brexit negotiations.

However, the Prime Minister has refused to divulge further details of the Government’s strategy for negotiating the UK’s formal exit from the EU, leaving expats without any further clarity regarding their future options – for example in respect of education fee planning and international pension planning – in relation to their expat regular savings.

Read More

Select your country

Please select your country of residence so we can provide you with the most relevant information: