Taxbytes for Expats

Returning to Ireland can look straightforward from the outside. You know the place, you may have family here, and there is often a comforting idea that moving home should be easier than moving away. As Sarah Owen explains in this episode, that is not always how it works in practice.Stephanie Wickham speaks with Sarah Owen from Crosscare Irish Diaspora Support Project about the real-life issues facing Irish citizens and their families when they are emigrating or returning to Ireland.Sarah explains why planning a return should include more than flights and shipping boxes. It highlights the importance of checking housing options, PPS numbers, school places, healthcare access, social welfare eligibility and local supports before the move, especially where the return is happening quickly.For anyone also dealing with foreign income, foreign savings, foreign assets, tax residency or cross-border tax questions, this episode is a useful reminder that the practical and financial pieces often overlap. Personalised tax advice may still be needed where the timing of the move affects Irish tax resident status, worldwide income, Irish-source income or future tax compliance.About the GuestSarah Owen is Project Leader with Crosscare Irish Diaspora Support Project, a Dublin-based nonprofit funded by the Government of Ireland. Crosscare provides information and advocacy assistance to Irish citizens moving abroad and returning to Ireland, with a particular focus on people who are marginalised or in crisis.Sarah is a dual Irish and French citizen with lived experience of migration. She has worked in Irish diaspora support and engagement for almost 15 years, across frontline support, policy, research and outreach. Her work is grounded in helping people make informed migration decisions, rather than pushing them towards or away from returning.Website: https://diasporasupport.ie/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahelisabethowen/*****Use the link below and quote "Expat Taxes" when registering with Currencies Direct to receive a €50 One4All or Amazon voucher when you transfer €5000 or more in your first six months with Currencies Direct.*Click here for a special offer from our sponsor, Currencies Direct******If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/.*****Chapters:(00:00) Welcome to Taxbytes for Expats(00:30) Introducing Sarah Owen and Crosscare Irish Diaspora Support Project(02:01) Sarah’s background and lived experience of migration(03:59) How Crosscare supports Irish citizens abroad and returning home(07:37) Recent trends in Irish emigration and return migration(09:46) Sponsor Message: Currencies Direct(10:32) Why returning to Ireland is not always straightforward(12:40) Information, advocacy and making an informed return(13:59) Social welfare, housing supports and habitual residence(15:45) Red tape, GP access, schools and family supports(16:52) Reverse culture shock, identity and belonging(18:44) How long it can take to feel settled back in Ireland

This episode is Part 2 of Stephanie's conversation with Gráinne Convery. For the full conversation, make sure you listen to Part 1 and subscribe to the podcast.In this second part of my chat with Gráinne Convery from the Cronin Group, we get into the real-life bits of relocating to Ireland: the things that don’t always show up on the official checklists but make a huge difference to your day-to-day experience.From unexpected cultural quirks to the very real challenges of the current rental market, Gráinne explains what regularly catches newcomers off guard and how her team step in to keep stress levels down.We talk about PPS numbers and opening bank accounts, moving pets, transferring driver’s licences, and even finding the right sports club for the kids. The key thing to note here is that timing matters: engaging services like Gráinne offers early gives you better outcomes, clearer expectations, and a much smoother transition.Gráinne also shares helpful insight on supporting spouses and partners who often feel the impact of a move most acutely. There's a significant emotional component to moving country that is sometimes missed entirely in the administration of it all.If you’re planning a move to Ireland, this episode will give you a grounded, realistic view of what to expect and the practical steps that make settling in so much easier.Main Topics discussed in this Episode:Cultural and Everyday Surprises for Newcomers: Gráinne highlights the small but significant cultural differences in home rental that often catch expats off guard.Settling-In Essentials Beyond Housing and Schooling: We walk through the practical tasks people overlook, from PPS numbers and bank accounts to utilities, driver’s licences, and even extracurricular activities for children.The Rise of Rental Scams and How to Avoid Them: Gráinne explains the very real issue of sophisticated rental scams and why working through a trusted relocation partner provides crucial protection.Supporting the “Trailing Spouse” and the Emotional Side of Relocation: We talk about the often-forgotten partner in a relocation and the importance of having someone to reach out to when navigating a new country feels overwhelming.How the Relocation Process Works Step-by-Step: Gráinne outlines their structured home-search and settlement process, from the first call to move-in day, showing how early engagement leads to a much smoother transition.*****If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/.Chapters:(00:00) Welcome & Episode Intro(00:51) Cultural Surprises for New Arrivals(02:30) The Overlooked Essentials of Settling In(04:15) Rental Scams and How to Avoid Them(05:48) Why Early Engagement Matters(06:33) Supporting the Trailing Spouse(07:32) How the Relocation Process Works(09:46) What Documents You’ll Need(10:54) Moving Day Support & Handovers(11:24) How to Contact Gráinne(12:39) When to Start Planning Your Move(14:02) Final Thoughts on Life in IrelandMentioned in this episode:Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies DirectThis episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland. Use the link below and quote "Expat Taxes" when registering with Currencies Direct to receive a €50 One4All or Amazon voucher when you transfer €5000 or more in your first six months with Currencies Direct. Click here for Currencies Direct Special Offer

Buying a home in Ireland can be one of the most exciting and daunting parts of an expat move.In this episode, I chat with Rob Priestman, Business Development Manager at EBS, who’s been helping people secure mortgages for over 20 years. Rob’s also an ultra-marathon runner, which might explain his stamina for navigating the twists and turns of Ireland’s mortgage market!We talk through what’s really happening in the market right now and what expats and returning Irish need to know before applying. Rob explains how Central Bank lending rules work in practice, how lenders assess affordability, and what to expect if you’re earning in a foreign currency (including why only 80% of that income is typically taken into account). We also cover practical essentials like getting “mortgage ready,” working with a solicitor or buyer’s agent, and why opening a euro bank account early on can save you trouble later.The key thing to note here is that every case is different, but Rob’s advice will help you plan ahead and approach the process with confidence. His calm, practical insight is a real reassurance in what can be a complex journey.Topics Discussed in this Episode:Changes in the Irish Mortgage Market: Rob outlines how lending practices have evolved since the Celtic Tiger years, with Central Bank rules now enforcing stricter loan-to-income and affordability criteria to ensure borrowers can manage repayments.Getting Mortgage-Ready from Abroad: We discuss the practical steps expats should take before applying—understanding costs, securing mortgage approval in advance, and assembling the right professional support team including a solicitor and buyer’s agent.Foreign Income and Currency Considerations: Rob explains how lenders assess non-euro income (typically taking 80% of its value to allow for currency fluctuations) and why having a euro bank account is essential for repayments.Understanding Affordability and Repayment Capacity: We look at how repayment capacity is tested, including why existing overseas rent or mortgage payments must still be included until you return to Ireland—often reducing how much you can initially borrow.Buying vs. Building in Ireland: Rob shares how the process for self-builds mirrors that of a purchase, with extra focus on documentation and costings, and stresses the importance of starting conversations early to make the process smoother.Get in touch with Rob (and mention the podcast when you do!):Email: rob.priestman@ebs.iePhone: +353 879 037 867LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-priestman-3767277/*****If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.Chapters:(00:00) Welcome and Introduction(00:30) Meet Rob Priestman – EBS and 20 Years in Mortgages(02:47) How the Irish Mortgage Market Has Changed Since the Celtic Tiger(04:15) Understanding Central Bank Rules and Affordability Tests(06:42) Who’s Buying from Abroad – Expats, Returnees, and First-Time Buyers(08:29) Three Steps to Getting Mortgage-Ready from Overseas(10:42) Foreign Employment and Currency: What Lenders Look For(13:06) Why You Need a Euro Bank Account for Irish Mortgage Repayments(14:38) How Mortgage Applications Are Assessed and Common Pitfalls(17:30) The Mortgage Journey: From First Chat to Approval(20:30) Customer Service, Support, and Staying Informed Throughout(24:12) Self-Builds, Case-by-Case Decisions, and Final AdviceMentioned in this episode:Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies DirectThis episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland. Use the link below and quote "Expat Taxes" when registering with Currencies Direct to receive a €50 One4All or Amazon voucher when you transfer €5000 or more in your first six months with Currencies Direct. Click here for Currencies Direct Special Offer

This episode is Part 1 of Stephanie's conversation with Peter Ferrigno. Make sure you're subscribed to get Part 2.In this episode, I’m joined by Peter Ferrigno, an expat tax veteran (CTA, FCA, CIPD) whose career spans Big Four leadership, immigration and relocation, and hands-on advisory across Europe. Peter has lived the expat life himself—Poland, the Czech Republic, and now Spain—so he understands the human side of cross-border moves as much as the numbers.We unpack what’s driving today’s migration out of the UK (non-dom changes, rising effective rates, inheritance tax exposure), how to compare destination countries in a structured, practical way, and why tax is only one part of the decision. The key thing to note here is that assets, income sources, and lifestyle priorities change the answer—property portfolios, flat-tax regimes (e.g., Italy/Greece), UAE vs. EU trade-offs, temporary non-residence rules on business exits, and the impact of abolished schemes like Portugal’s NHR all feature.We also talk through Peter’s simple matrix for shortlisting countries, the importance of immigration pathways post-Brexit, and the real-world factors that make or break a move—kids’ schools, spouse integration, social networks. If you’re weighing a relocation to or from Ireland or the UK, this conversation will help you frame the right questions before you act.Main Topics discussed in this Episode:Peter’s Global Career and Perspective: Peter shares his journey across major firms and countries, shaping his people-focused approach to expat tax and mobility.The UK Exodus and Non-Dom Changes: We unpack why more high-net-worth individuals are leaving the UK and how Ireland and Europe compare.Tax Planning vs. Lifestyle Reality: Relocation isn’t just about tax—family, lifestyle, and emotional fit often decide success abroad.Choosing the Right Destination Country: Peter explains his method for comparing countries based on assets, income, lifestyle, and tax outcomes.Immigration Pathways and Investment Residency: We discuss how residence-by-investment schemes support post-Brexit mobility and tax planning.Get in touch with Peter Ferrigno:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterferrigno1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peter.ferrigno/Chapters:(00:00) Welcome and Introduction(00:31) Meet Peter Ferrigno of Global Expatriate Tax Services(01:44) How Peter’s Career in Global Tax Began(04:40) Living the Expat Life – Lessons from Abroad(06:01) Why More High-Net-Worth Individuals Are Leaving the UK(09:22) The Real Impact of UK Non-Dom Changes(10:12) How to Choose Where to Move – Tax Isn’t Everything(12:52) The Emotional and Family Side of Relocating(15:10) Selling a Business and Temporary Non-Residence Rules(17:02) Comparing Tax Systems and Narrowing the Shortlist(19:05) Immigration Rules and Post-Brexit Challenges(20:33) Investment Residency and Final Takeaways*****If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.Mentioned in this episode:Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies DirectThis episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland. Use the link below and quote "Expat Taxes" when registering with Currencies Direct to receive a €50 One4All or Amazon voucher when you transfer €5000 or more in your first six months with Currencies Direct. Click here for Currencies Direct Special Offer

In this second half of my conversation with Alexander Marino, Director of U.S. Tax Law at Moody's Tax, we get into the nitty-gritty of what it really means to exit the U.S. tax system, whether you're renouncing citizenship or handing back a long-term green card.This is one of those areas where emotion, tax policy, and real-life consequences all collide. Alex explains the U.S. exit tax (and how to avoid it), what being a “covered expatriate” actually means, and why some clients are better off paying millions in exit tax now rather than tens of millions in estate tax later. We also discuss some common myths like assuming a high-tax country means you’re covered, or thinking a long-expired green card means you’re off the hook.The key thing to note here is: this isn’t about being dramatic. For many U.S. expats living in Ireland or abroad, stepping away from the U.S. tax net is a practical financial decision—but it has to be done right. Alex shares how his team helps people navigate this process and why now might be the best window in history for high-net-worth individuals to consider it.If you’re feeling stuck or unsure about your U.S. status, don’t put it in the “too hard” basket. As always, professional advice is essential but hopefully this episode gives you a strong foundation to start asking the right questions.This is Part 2 of a two-part conversation with Alexander Marino. For Part 1, make sure you subscribed to the podcast.Main Topics discussed in this Episode:Understanding the U.S. Exit Tax: We unpack how the U.S. exit tax works and why avoiding it comes down to good planning, not good luck.Covered Expatriate Rules: Alex explains what makes someone a “covered expatriate” and the costly consequences that can follow.Green Card Holders Are Not Off the Hook: Letting a green card expire doesn’t end your U.S. tax obligations—many are surprised to learn they’re still on the hook.When Tax Treaties Don’t Protect You: Tax treaties help avoid double tax, but they offer no protection when only the U.S. taxes an event.Why Now May Be the Smartest Time to Act: Current exemption levels make this an unusually favourable moment to plan an exit from the U.S. tax system.Get in touch with Alex Marino:Email: amarino@moodystax.comWebsite: https://moodysprivateclient.com/team/marino-alexander/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-marino-45a76b26/*****If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.Mentioned in this episode:Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies DirectThis episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland. Use the link below and quote "Expat Taxes" when registering with Currencies Direct to receive a €50 One4All or Amazon voucher when you transfer €5000 or more in your first six months with Currencies Direct. Click here for Currencies Direct Special OfferCheck out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

This is Part 2 of a two-part conversation with Dan Howse. Scroll back in the feed to hear Part 1 of Dan’s conversation.In this episode of Taxbytes for Expats I’m back with Dan Howse, global mobility expert and Tax Partner at Tax Advisory Partnership, to unpack the recent seismic changes to the UK’s non-domicile tax regime. If you’re a UK expat, a returning Brit, or someone with cross-border ties to the UK, this will help you figure out what's been happening in the UK and if you're impacted by the changes.Dan walks us through what’s changing, from the scrapping of the remittance basis of tax to the introduction of the new Foreign Income and Gains (FIG) regime. We talk about transitional rules, short vs long-term tax planning opportunities, the practical implications for remote workers, and how these shifts affect the UK’s tax appeal for expats compared to other countries (Ireland included, we still have a remittance basis FYI!).As ever, it’s about helping our clients not just stay compliant but make informed, strategic choices. There’s plenty in here for individuals and employers alike, especially if you’ve got staff moving between the UK and Ireland or further afield.Main Topics discussed in this Episode:Abolition of the UK Domicile Concept & Remittance Basis: Dan explains the end of domicile as a tax concept in the UK and how the remittance basis has been replaced, simplifying the system but reducing long-term planning opportunities.Introduction of the Foreign Income and Gains (FIG) Regime: The new FIG regime allows qualifying individuals to be taxed only on UK income and gains for their first four years of UK residence, creating new opportunities for returning expats and inbound professionals.Overseas Workday Relief and Remote Work Implications: The changes expand access to overseas workday relief, making it easier for cross-border workers and frequent travellers to claim UK tax exemptions on non-UK workdays.Impact on Long-Term Planning and Inheritance Tax Exposure: With fewer incentives for long-term non-doms, the UK may lose its appeal for high-net-worth individuals, prompting a need to re-evaluate estate planning and domicile assumptions.Ireland’s Position in Contrast to UK Changes: Stephanie highlights how Ireland’s retention of the remittance basis may become more attractive in comparison, especially for those considering their next move.Get in touch with Dan Howse:Email: dan.howse@taxadvisorypartnership.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-howse*****If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.Mentioned in this episode:Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies DirectThis episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland. Use the link below and quote "Expat Taxes" when registering with Currencies Direct to receive a €50 One4All or Amazon voucher when you transfer €5000 or more in your first six months with Currencies Direct. Click here for Currencies Direct Special Offer

This is the second part of a two-part conversation with Amber Dawson - make sure to listen to Part 1 for the full background on our initial chat and intro to Amber.In this second part of my chat with Amber Dawson, senior financial advisor at Ally Wealth Management in Perth, we’re talking about superannuation: what it is, how it works, and why it’s one of the most tax-efficient ways to build long-term wealth for expats living and working in Australia.We unpack the tax benefits of super contributions, what happens when you leave Australia, and why trying to cash out early could cost you dearly. Amber shares practical tips for anyone navigating financial decisions between Ireland and Australia, from capital gains on Aussie property to the challenges of moving pensions across borders. We also talk about common mistakes expats make, the emotional side of relocation, and the power of planning your financial future BEFORE life makes the decision for you.If you’re an Irish expat in Australia, a returning Irish repat, or just trying to make sense of your super and investments when living elsewhere, you’ll find what you need here.Main Topics discussed in this Episode:Superannuation Basics & Tax Benefits: Amber explains how superannuation works in Australia, including its tax-advantaged structure and why it's a key tool for long-term wealth building.Accessing Super When Leaving Australia: We explore what happens to your super if you leave Australia, including the potential tax pitfalls of early withdrawals and why patience often pays off.Transferring Pensions Across Borders: Amber and I discuss the complexities of moving pension funds between Australia and other jurisdictions, particularly the limited options for transferring super out of Australia.Financial Planning for Expats & Repatriation: Whether you're planning to leave Australia or return, we highlight the importance of future-proofing your financial decisions based on your goals—even when life doesn’t go to plan.Common Mistakes Expats Make: From poorly timed property sales to misaligned financial products, Amber shares real-world examples of avoidable mistakes and the value of seeking advice early.Your special offer from Amber Dawson & Ally Wealth:Book a meeting with Amber to start your personalised Strategy Paper: https://calendly.com/ally-wealth-amber/introductory-meeting-online. Amber’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-dawson/ More info for Expats on Ally Wealth’s Website: https://allywealth.com.au/blog/*****If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.Mentioned in this episode:Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies DirectThis episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland. Use the link below and quote "Expat Taxes" when registering with Currencies Direct to receive a €50 One4All or Amazon voucher when you transfer €5000 or more in your first six months with Currencies Direct. Click here for Currencies Direct Special Offer