The Blacktower Group obtains Cyprus licence

There has never been a better time than now for British nationals living in the EU to consolidate their retirement plans by properly investigating their expat pensions options.

Post-Brexit, sterling has fallen dramatically against the euro and for many the uncertainty surrounding expat pensions is causing understandable anxiety.

Currently, British expats living in the EU receive an annual rise in the state pension; however, this could change in the post-Brexit environment, meaning that many face the prospect of frozen pensions and as a result are giving serious consideration to the idea of returning to the UK.

While these uncertainties are not to be dismissed lightly it is worth remembering that exit negotiations are yet to begin and freedom of movement and state and expat pensions are all likely to be issues for discussion once talks do start.

Many of our clients will have beside their property and / or bank accounts here in Spain still assets abroad.  This could be a property in the “home” country, a share portfolio in Luxembourg, an offshore bank account etc.

Most would have a Will covering these assets in their home country and without specific mention of the asset will have laid out their wishes in the form of for example “spouse to spouse on first death and on second death to the children” which would apply to all their assets.  

Should the person have not bothered taking on a Spanish Will then the heirs would have to go through the extra work and costs involved in relying on a UK or foreign will for the disposal of the Spanish assets.  The Will would have to be translated and apostiled adding delays and extra costs at a difficult time for the heirs.