Unfortunately, HMRC has so far failed to provide any useful clarity on the issue, saying only that, “The Prime Minister has announced that foreign buyers looking to buy homes in the UK will face a higher stamp duty rate. We will consult on the details in due course.”
Returning expats should be prepared and seek reliable international financial advice to guide them through the process of reintegrating to the UK. If a British citizen is planning to return to the UK, expat financial advisers can help them with strategies to reaffirm their ties to the UK in plenty of time so that they can avoid any unnecessary costs, taxes or indeed surcharges.
Blacktower Financial Management
Whether you are looking to move abroad, are preparing to stay abroad or are considering returning to the UK, Blacktower Financial Management can help you plan and structure your wealth and build for your retirement.
Our expat financial advisers in the Netherlands, Germany France and 12 other European offices understand the complex cross-border tax and financial issues that affect you and your money. And, because they are bilingual and locally-based, they can help you achieve the goals that are unique to your situation and location. For further information contact us today.
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.
The pension freedoms of 2014 radically altered the way many expats are now able to access their retirement funds. The changes, which came into force in April 2015, ended the age of annuity-by-default and allowed people to take multiple tax-free sums, have flexible options regarding income drawdown and provided more scope for 
For many years now, people with pension pots built up through schemes in the UK – either through an employer or their own personal savings – have had the ability, once retired, to transfer them from the UK for the opportunity to gain control of their own pot and receive more favourable tax treatment.