Expat Taxes Australia
Specialist Australian tax services for Australian expatriates & foreign expats in Australia
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Potential AUD Exchange Rate Impacts Of Inflation & Interest Rates
By Shane Macfarlane CA / 30/10/2024
In a recent Sky News Australia broadcast earlier today (see below), Australia's Federal Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, announced Australia’s latest inflation...
Overdue Tax Returns? Here’s How to Catch Up
By Shane Macfarlane CA / 15/09/2024
As an Australian expat, life comes with all sorts of adventures, challenges, and—let’s be honest, a few headaches too, particularly,...
Demystifying PFICs for Australians in the United States
By Shane Macfarlane CA / 12/04/2024
Demystifying PFICs for Australian Expats in the US: A Comprehensive Guide (In-Depth Exploration) For many Australians who live and work...
Update: Thailand Clarifies Tax on Foreign Income
By Shane Macfarlane CA / 25/11/2023
Background to Thailand's Plan to Levy Tax on Foreign Income Recently we published "Tax Alert: Thailand to tax foreign income",...
Potential AUD Exchange Rate Impacts Of Inflation & Interest Rates 30 Oct, 2024 Posted in: Money & Finance - In a recent Sky News Australia broadcast earlier today (see below), Australia’s Federal Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, announced Australia’s latest inflation data—a drop to 2.8%, marking the lowest rate in over four years. But what are the potential AUD exchange rate impacts of today’s news? This ... 
Overdue Tax Returns? Here’s How to Catch Up 15 Sep, 2024 Posted in: Tax - As an Australian expat, life comes with all sorts of adventures, challenges, and—let’s be honest, a few headaches too, particularly, when a tasks like catching up on your overdue tax returns slip through the cracks sometimes. If you’ve been living overseas and have inadvertently missed ... 
Demystifying PFICs for Australians in the United States 12 Apr, 2024 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats, Tax - Demystifying PFICs for Australian Expats in the US: A Comprehensive Guide (In-Depth Exploration) For many Australians who live and work in the United States, navigating US taxes can be a nightmare, especially when it comes to declaring your Aussie investments in your US return? Managed ... 
Update: Thailand Clarifies Tax on Foreign Income 25 Nov, 2023 Posted in: All, Residency, Tax - Background to Thailand’s Plan to Levy Tax on Foreign Income Recently we published “Tax Alert: Thailand to tax foreign income”, an article about significant new changes introduced by the Thai Revenue Department through Revenue Order 161/2023, that seek to tax Thai tax residents on any ... 
Remote Workers – Australia’s Opportunistic Tax Grab 11 Nov, 2023 Posted in: Tax - Remote workers – if you are an Australian expat who works remotely for an Australian employer, you’ll want to read more (you should not ignore this article)! In recent months, an alarming issue for remote workers (discovered by our team here at Expat Taxes), has ... 
Tax Alert: Thailand to tax foreign income 25 Sep, 2023 Posted in: All, Tax - 25/11/2023 – Update: The Thai Revenue Department has recently issued a follow-up revenue order 162/2023 that clarifies the operation of these new rules. It’s recommended that you continue to read this article first, and after take a look at our latest article which details the ... 
Are share trading profits of non-residents taxable in Australia? 5 May, 2023 Posted in: All, Investing, Tax - According to Sydney-based research firm Investment Trends’ 2022 1st Half Online Investing Report, online share traders have increased from 700,000 in 2019 to approximately 1.47m today. Australian Bureau of Statistics migration statistics for 2022 revealed that 224,000 Australians left Australia permanently to migrate overseas in ... 
Everything you need to know about offshore bank fees 7 Jan, 2023 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Money & Finance - Bank fees can be confusing and costly, especially for Australian expats regardless of whether you paying them at home or abroad! In Australia, bank fees consistently increase, so it’s important to pay attention to rising rates. When you travel overseas, the situation becomes more complex, ... 
5 Entrepreneur Visas for Business Owners to Live Overseas 21 Dec, 2022 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Outbound Expats - Are you an Aussie expat business owner? Are you intrigued by the idea of paying less tax? If so, we encourage you to consider taking your business offshore. Not only this, but various countries will offer you a second residency if you set up your ... 
Three great places to live in Europe as an expat 15 Dec, 2022 Posted in: Expat Life, Outbound Expats - If you’re planning on becoming an expat and making the move to another country, it can be difficult knowing which one is the right destination for you. Europe is a vibrant continent which has plenty of culture and financial opportunities, but with so many locations ... 
Tax Residency for Australian’s working on cruise ships or yachts 14 Dec, 2022 Posted in: All, Expat Life, News & Current Events, Outbound Expats, Residency, Tax - On 2 November 2022, the Administrative Appeals Tribunal handed down a decision in relation to a case Duff and Commissioner of Taxation (Taxation) [2022] AATA 3675 (2 November 2022). Duff, an Australian, who was employed as a chef on a cruise ship. The Case and ... 
Could Remote Working During the Pandemic Affect Your Tax Burden? 9 Dec, 2022 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Residency, Tax - During the recent Covid-19 pandemic, in line with Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guidance, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) issued some additional guidelines for Australian expats who returned to Australia to visit, but who couldn’t leave due to covid restrictions either here or ... 
3 ways to enjoy expat life 30 Nov, 2022 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Outbound Expats, Tax - When you think about living as an expat, what springs to mind? Everyone has their own idea of what it means to be an expat, but there is more than one way to enjoy this type of life. Here, we take a look at three ... 
Urgent Deadline for Directors ID Registration in Australia – November 30th 2022 25 Nov, 2022 Posted in: Superannuation, Tax - Living and working overseas as an Australian expat, or as a non-resident of Australia means that it’s easy to overlook your Australian tax and compliance obligations, because these things are often “out of sight, out of mind”! If you are a director of a company ... 
The power of property investment 8 Nov, 2022 Posted in: All, Investing, Money & Finance, Property & Mortgages - Finding the right commodity, or company to invest in is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be a hard one. We all know that investing in property is a fantastic way to build your investment portfolio and work towards financial independence. While property ... 
The 5 best cities in Asia for foodies 19 Oct, 2022 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Outbound Expats - One of the best parts about moving overseas is being able to sample all the wonderful foods of a different culture and country. If trying new delicacies is something you enjoy, read on for a list of five cities in Asia renowned for their dishes. ... 
The dual citizenship tax mistake you need to avoid 30 Sep, 2022 Posted in: Expat Life, Outbound Expats, Tax - Every country has its own tax procedures, policies and rules; no matter where you live and work, you’ll need to make sure you’re aware of these for your circumstances. Becoming a dual citizen of a new country (or just residing overseas) can come with many ... 
Can an Australian expat use negative gearing? 26 Sep, 2022 Posted in: All, Investing, Money & Finance, Property & Mortgages - Negative gearing is a strategy used by many Australians to make tax savings, but is this strategy still accessible to Australian expats that are living overseas? In this article, we explain what negative gearing is, what it means for Australian expats and whether it is ... 
The many reasons to take your business overseas 21 Sep, 2022 Posted in: Investing, Money & Finance, Outbound Expats - Whether you have a small startup business or you are well on your way to becoming a household name, for entrepreneurs the thrill is always found in the next challenge. No matter what kind of work you do, setting your sights on the next big ... 
Financial tips for expats undergoing a divorce 12 Sep, 2022 Posted in: Expat Life, Money & Finance, Property & Mortgages - Managing the emotional and financial implications of a divorce can be difficult for anyone. When you’re an expat, the situation can become even more difficult. We’ve put together some helpful financial tips to make managing divorce and finances as an expat more simple. Seek legal ... 
How to ease your expat stress once you’ve moved 8 Sep, 2022 Posted in: Expat Life, Money & Finance, Outbound Expats - Becoming an expat can be an extremely exciting time in your life, but it can also cause a lot of doubt, stress and nerves. It’s normal to feel homesick and worry if you have made the right decision, but it’s also important to know how to ... 
The 9 Most Expensive Cities for Expat Living 30 Aug, 2022 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Money & Finance - As an Aussie expat, there are many reasons you may decide to live overseas. You may wish to pay less tax, discover new investment opportunities, pursue a new career, or simply enjoy greater freedoms. For some, pursuing a better life comes with a much higher ... 
Senior Tax Manager Grant Keating Featured in CPA Australia’s INTHEBLACK 2 Aug, 2022 Posted in: Expat Life, Tax - As the world moves forward from the period of Covid-19 Pandemic challenges the concept of working overseas is back into consideration for many Australian professionals. Recognising this, CPA Australia’s flagship publication, “In the Black” magazine, has published a great article entitled – The New Look ... 
Is Southeast Asia the Best Place in the World to Start a Business? 2 Aug, 2022 Posted in: Expat Life, Residency - Are you an Aussie with a fantastic business idea? You may want to consider relocating to launch your entrepreneurial venture, possibly even overseas and if so you’ll need to consider many potential destinations. Today, business leaders and expats alike are realising the potential of the ... 
Tax tips for Australian Expatriates Moving Abroad 28 Jul, 2022 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Outbound Expats, Residency, Tax - For Australian expats moving abroad, taxation can be a complex and a confusing process. The rules are different depending on where in the world you live and what type of income you earn. For example, if you remain an Australian tax resident while living overseas ... 
Your Australian tax returns – international considerations 28 Jul, 2022 Posted in: All, Residency, Tax - After the past couple of tumultuous years, it’s hard to believe that this last tax year (2021/2022) has passed so quickly! Given how quickly time seems to pass nowadays, it’s probably no surprise, that you’ll need to begin thinking about your 2022 Australian tax returns ... 
What Are The Benefits of Dual Citizenship? 3 Jul, 2022 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Residency - There can be quite a few benefitr of dual citizenship. But before we get into that, what does dual citizenship entail? Dual citizenship is the legal process of obtaining citizenship in two countries at the same time. Dual citizens receive passports from each respective country ... 
The best low-tax countries in Asia 27 Apr, 2022 Posted in: All, Tax - When we think of tax-free and low-tax countries, the Middle East or Caribbean beauty spots like the Cayman Islands, the Bahamas, or perhaps European states like Switzerland and Liechtenstein come to mind first! We’d like to demonstrate though, that perhaps it’s time to think outside ... 
UK Inheritance Tax: Considerations for Expats 16 Mar, 2022 Posted in: All, Tax - Are you an Australian resident who owns UK assets? Or do you have a place of residence in the UK and are considering moving to Australia? If so, it’s crucial to consider the relevant UK inheritance tax (IHT) implications. Current UK Inheritance Tax (IHT) rules ... 
The falling Australian dollar – tax issues to consider 8 Dec, 2021 Posted in: All, Money & Finance, Tax - The Australian dollar is falling! Thanks to the Coronavirus pandemic and increasing fears about inflation, the value of the Australian dollar is falling. As a consequence, many expats are transferring money back to Australia because of the good exchange rate. This might seem like a ... 
Aussie expats in London – which areas are popular? 8 Sep, 2021 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Sources show that in 2017, 41,000 Aussies had already taken the step to move to London. If you’re like those 41,000, and you’re hoping to join London’s 8 million-strong population wondering which areas are popular for Aussie expats in London. If so, carry on reading ... 
Managing tax on Australian property 19 Aug, 2021 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages, Tax - Thinking of getting into property investment in Australia and want to understand how to manage tax on Australian property? Whether you’ve moved abroad permanently or you’re temporarily working in a different country for a few years, specific rules apply if you happen to be an ... 
How can expats prepare for life abroad 22 Jul, 2021 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Outbound Expats - Over the past 18 months, here at Expat Taxes, we’ve been approached by more and more Australians planning to prepare for a life abroad. Without doubt, the Covid-19 global pandemic has had a lot to do with this as employees, and employers have transitioned to ... 
Get the most out of life as an expat with these tips 11 Jul, 2021 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Outbound Expats - Moving abroad and living life as an expat is an incredibly rewarding and educational experience, but it does come with a few complications. From coming to terms with the visa requirements of a country for expats, through to understanding and embracing a new culture and/or ... 
Common tax issues faced by Australian expats 7 Jul, 2021 Posted in: All, Tax - Whether you’re an expat working in Australia or a native working overseas, there is always the chance that you will run into some kind of tax issue. With so many countries employing wildly different systems to deal with taxation, it can help to know what ... 
Can foreigners own property in Singapore? 7 Apr, 2021 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages - Foreigners who are interested in doing so, can own property in Singapore can do so, but like Australia, there are restrictions, and the process is tightly regulated by the Residential Property Act and the Singapore Land Authority. Similar comments apply to commercial property. Who is ... - Double taxation disputes: what’s changing 31 Mar, 2021 Posted in: All - Last week, the Australian Government finalised the first in a series of new agreements with foreign governments to improve the handling of double taxation disputes. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Australia and Belgium deals with unresolved issues under the formal tax dispute resolution system ...
Why you should use an expat accountant 25 Mar, 2021 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats, Residency, Tax - Leaving Australia to live or work abroad, is an exciting time, but there are so many things to consider. Finding a school for your kids, choosing where to live, overseas health insurance, the list is endless. Finding an expat accountant is probably not even on ... 
Expat tax tips to streamline your finances in 2021 5 Jan, 2021 Posted in: All, Money & Finance, Superannuation - Streamline your finances – tips for Aussie Expats For many people, 2020 has been a difficult and challenging year to streamline your finances. Australian expats not only had to deal with their property potentially being harmed in the bushfires back home early in 2020, but ... 
Moving to Singapore – Tax Brief for Australian Expats 23 Dec, 2020 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats, Tax - Considering moving to Singapore? If so, how will it effect your taxes & finances? We discuss some of the key tax differences between Australia and Singapore and how these might affect you!
Australian tax deadlines for Aussie expats 15 Dec, 2020 Posted in: All, Tax - Are you an Aussie expat who earns income from Australia? Lodging a tax return annually does not need to be a stressful experience. All it takes is, being responsible and respecting all Australian tax deadlines. When is the due date for the lodgement of your ... 
UK Property – 4 tips for Australian expats seeking to buy 8 Dec, 2020 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages - UK Property purchases remain attractive to Australian expats thanks to subdued property prices caused by Brexit and now COVID-19. If you are an Aussie expat looking to buy a UK property, here are a few important tax implications to consider: 1. Secure property financing right ... 
How to choose an Australian expat tax accountant? 24 Nov, 2020 Posted in: All, Tax - Australian expats love the adventure and excitement of living overseas and of overseas travel generally. But there’s nothing exciting about having to managing their own taxes by themselves, particularly when those taxes and tax returns straddle multiple countries! It is possible that as an Australian ... 
How to prepare for expat life 22 Sep, 2020 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats - Even in these challenging times with Covid-19, moving overseas to begin expat life is becoming a popular choice among Australians, but sadly many fail to prepare for expat life effectively. Starting a new life abroad can be an exciting new adventure, whether it is a ... 
COVID-19 Implications for Aussie expats 15 Sep, 2020 Posted in: All, Residency, Tax - As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many Aussie expats have been forced to return home, resulting in different Covid-19 implications for Aussie expats who have returned home, and for those remaining overseas. For those with businesses and family ties overseas, this arrangement has created ... 
Common issues faced by outbound expats 7 Aug, 2020 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats - Moving overseas is usually a very exciting opportunity, but it can also be an overwhelming experience. The issues faced by outbound expats when moving overseas will vary depending on finance, location, culture, and in general, the place they are moving to. Here we discuss some ... 
COVID 19 – Foreign aid workers may lose tax-free status 28 Jul, 2020 Posted in: News & Current Events, Tax - Governments throughout the world have been forced to take unprecedented action to restrict the spread of COVID 19. They have restricted travel and enforced quarantining to reduce the spread of the virus. As a result of government responses to COVID 19, the working arrangements of ... 
Should Australian expats be required to pay for quarantine? 28 Jul, 2020 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Should Australian expats be required to pay for quarantine is the question that many Australian expats have on their minds at present. In fact, many Australian expats are criticising the government’s new ruling that they must spend 14 days in quarantine, and be charged for ... 
Tips to help your kids adjust to expat life 13 Jul, 2020 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Moving to a different country is a huge undertaking, so we’ve put together a list of tips to help your kids adjust to expat life and in particular, to school abroad. It’s a well-known fact that moving to a different country as an Australian expat ... 
HELP/HECS debt obligations for Australian expats 27 May, 2020 Posted in: All, Tax - If you’re like many Australians who finish university then take off to another country for work there are many things you need to be aware of, including how to pay off your Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) debt (previously known as HECS) if you have ... 
4 financial considerations for Aussie expats 23 Apr, 2020 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats - Receiving a once-in-a-lifetime job opportunity or wanting to experience a different culture are just some of the many reasons to become an expat. However, before you embark on this grand adventure, you have to consider your financial situation. To make the transition easier, here’s four ... 
How to choose an overseas school for your children 17 Apr, 2020 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Outbound Expats - When moving overseas to live and work as an expat, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right school for your children. Some children adapt very well to new environments and ways of learning, but others do not. As such, we’ve ... 
The ATO knows about your overseas bank accounts! 14 Apr, 2020 Posted in: All, Tax - Many Australians end up living or working overseas as an expat for some or all of the year, at the same time as maintaining their Australian residency for tax purposes. For many, part of living or working abroad means that they have a bank account ... 
Expats – the importance of communities 24 Mar, 2020 Posted in: All, Expat Life - We all live in them and many times take them for granted; these are our local communities. Whether it be your street, your immediate neighbours, your work team or colleagues, your social club, fitness club, or online communities, the list of possible communities that we ... 
ATO sounds warnings over crypto trading and tax avoidance 17 Mar, 2020 Posted in: All, Tax - One of the best things about being an expat is the freedom to pursue the life you want beyond the borders of your homeland. That freedom is also one of the big attractions of investing in cryptocurrencies, which are free from the traditional strictures for ... 
4 Things your expat insurance policy should cover 9 Mar, 2020 Posted in: All, Insurance - Moving abroad is stressful. Even for the most experienced expat, the journey is filled with unknowns. That’s why it’s essential to purchase a comprehensive expat insurance policy to cover you during your time overseas. However, not all insurance policies are the same. To clear up ... 
5 tips for helping kids adjust to expat life 3 Mar, 2020 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Relocating overseas and adjusting to expat life can be stressful for parents, and even more so for children. Moving away from everything and everyone they know, starting at a new school in an unfamiliar country can be scary. However, there are simple ways to help ... 
Your key checklist as an expat moving overseas 22 Feb, 2020 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats - Are you an expat moving overseas? Are you ready to relocate to a new country? Moving abroad can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. Between packing up your house, saying goodbye to friends and preparing for your new job, there’s a lot to think about. Will ... 
How to solve 3 common expat anxieties before you move 21 Feb, 2020 Posted in: All, Expat Life - If you have made the decision to move overseas and become an Australian expat, you are no doubt feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement. Starting a new life abroad can be thrilling, but often the anxiety of leaving your familiar life behind can overshadow ... 
5 things to consider before you become an expat 22 Jan, 2020 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Outbound Expats - Are you relocating or planning to relocate overseas for work? While broadening your life experience and exposing you to new things, moving overseas is also quite daunting. For a smooth transition, here are the top five things you should keep in mind before you become ... 
Avoid tax headaches when moving overseas 19 Dec, 2019 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats, Tax - Whether you’re looking for a chance to travel, moving for work, or are simply seeking a lifestyle change, the prospect of moving abroad is exciting. While it’s hard not to get caught up in the excitement of moving overseas, seeking the advice of a financial ... 
Capital Gains Tax changes to affect thousands of Aussie expats 11 Dec, 2019 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages, Tax - Following on from our update last week about, we’ve decided to summarise not only the key changes, but we’ve incorporated various comments about these harsh new changes to the main residence exemption from well respected tax professionals and Australian tax commentators. What’s changing? Australian expatriates ... 
Death of the Main Residence Exemption for Australian expats 5 Dec, 2019 Posted in: All - Unfortunately for non-resident Australian expats and non-residents generally, some two and a half years after first being proposed in the May 2017 Federal Budget (refer 2017 Federal Budget – Expats clear losers), today sees the death knell of the main residence exemption for non-resident Australian ... 
Main residence CGT exemption abolished for Aussie expats 22 Nov, 2019 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages, Tax - Latest Update: 5th December 2019 – Unfortunately today the Federal Government passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Reducing Pressure on Housing Affordability Measures) Bill 2019 into law without amendment, resulting in the scrapping of the main residence exemption for non-resident Australian expats. To read more about ... 
Determining Your Australian Tax Residency Status 24 Oct, 2019 Posted in: All, Residency, Tax - As an Australian expat, filling out your tax return can be complex – especially if you’re unclear of your tax obligations. So, before moving abroad, it’s vital to know your Australian tax residency status. Generally, expats fall under one of these categories: an Australian resident ... 
Planning – the key to avoiding expat tax traps 16 Oct, 2019 Posted in: All, Tax - You’re heading off from Australia to work overseas. It’s a career opportunity, a cultural adventure, and a financial boost. To ensure all three work in your favour with your Australian taxes, it’s essential to avoid unnecessary losses. You can’t achieve that by dealing with the ... 
South Korea Tax Brief for Expats 10 Oct, 2019 Posted in: All, Tax - Steeped in tradition, while producing world-first technology and innovations, South Korea truly offers something for everyone. Home to tech heavyweights like Samsung and LG, South Korea is ideal for expats working in IT, finance and electronics. Also, boasting the world’s fastest internet connection, Aussie expats ... 
Bank accounts for Australian expats: key issues 27 Sep, 2019 Posted in: All, Money & Finance - Beginning your life as an Australian expat feels like you are setting up an entirely new life; from buying a home to furnishing your house, everything you had set up in Australia needs establishing in your new home overseas. Banking is one of those components ... 
Becoming an expat: should I sell my home? 20 Sep, 2019 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages, Tax - Latest Update: 5th December 2019 – Unfortunately today the Federal Government passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Reducing Pressure on Housing Affordability Measures) Bill 2019 into law without amendment, resulting in the scrapping of the main residence exemption for non-resident Australian expats. To read more about ... 
Australian expats – Tax issues to consider 13 Sep, 2019 Posted in: All, Tax - A wise man once said, “east or west, home is best”. Is it possible however, to feel at home away from home? For Australians planning to move abroad, there are several financial decisions that can be made to ensure they have the most beneficial stay ... 
Being an expat overseas can enrich your family’s life 3 Sep, 2019 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Outbound Expats - If you’re thinking about becoming an expat overseas, you’ve probably spent hours considering the financial and logistical aspects of such an enormous decision, as well as all of the people you’ll be leaving behind. You may find the idea of swapping somewhere you know and ... 
Taxes for Australians living in Bali 27 Aug, 2019 Posted in: All, Tax - If you’re an Aussie expat living in Bali, you may be well aware of the fact that taxes for Australians living in Bali and your tax obligations generally, are a little complex. Indeed, many expats mistakenly believe that they are exempt from Indonesian taxes or ... 
How to speak like locals and be accepted fast 21 Aug, 2019 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Although English is the language of business, the ability to speak like locals in their local language helps in settling down fast. It can be frustrating when you are not able to ask for directions or order a simple meal when English isn’t widely spoken. ... 
Preparing for your first expat move overseas 16 Aug, 2019 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Outbound Expats - So you’re about to undertake your first expat move overseas? An overseas posting is a major turning point in your career. It demonstrates an acknowledgement of your skills and abilities to deliver the desired outcomes in what is an increasingly competitive global employment environment. If ... 
Tax Issues – Moving to Australia from the US? 13 Aug, 2019 Posted in: All, Inbound Expats, Tax - Latest Update: 5th December 2019 – Unfortunately today the Federal Government passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Reducing Pressure on Housing Affordability Measures) Bill 2019 into law without amendment, resulting in the scrapping of the main residence exemption for non-resident Australian expats. To read more about ... 
Expats Moving Overseas – Top 5 Tips 7 Aug, 2019 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats - So, you’ve packed your bags and you’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Awesome! But with regulations constantly changing for Aussie expats, it’s hard to know where to begin. Whether you’re moving abroad for adventure, work or retirement, here are top five tips for ... 
Retirement planning for Australian expats 22 Jul, 2019 Posted in: All, Money & Finance - A major motivation for accepting overseas postings is a 28% rise in income. (Source: HSBC Expat Explorer Survey 2019) What is equally interesting is more than half of the expats surveyed are focused on saving for retirement. It is probably a wise move given the ... 
Aussies are racing to file their tax returns – but should expats hold off? 12 Jul, 2019 Posted in: All, Tax - It’s tax season and the rush is most definitely on to get tax returns done and dusted. There are reports that at least 650,0000 people down under have already sent their tax returns into the ATO, a spike in numbers we don’t usually see this ... 
The 6 year temporary absence rule – what’s happened? 3 Jul, 2019 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages, Tax - Latest Update: 5th December 2019 – Unfortunately today the Federal Government passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Reducing Pressure on Housing Affordability Measures) Bill 2019 into law without amendment, resulting in the scrapping of the main residence exemption for non-resident Australian expats. To read more about ... 
Queensland’s new absentee land tax rules set to favour Aussie expats 26 Jun, 2019 Posted in: All, Tax - In Australia, absentee landowners are taxed with similar rates as trustees and companies. Unlike individual resident owners, they pay a higher rate of taxation and a lower starting threshold. The good news is that the absentee land tax rules are about to change in favour ... 
2019 tax returns for Australian Expats 24 Jun, 2019 Posted in: News & Current Events, Tax - It’s tax time 2019 for Australian expats. Wondering whether you are a resident for Australian tax purposes whilst you’re overseas? Need your Australian tax return prepared? If so then look no further because here at <a href=”https://www.expattaxes.com.au>Expat Taxes, not only do we know all about ... 
Coalition wins the election – what this means for Australian expats? 12 Jun, 2019 Posted in: All, News & Current Events - Just about every media pundit in Australia expected Labor to romp into power last month after two terms in opposition but instead, the Coalition wins the election. The Liberals had changed leaders three times in recent years with Tony Abbot being deposed by Malcolm Turnbull ... 
Tax audit insurance for expats – what is it and why do I need it? 10 Jun, 2019 Posted in: All, Tax - Tax audit insurance – being targeted in the gunsight’s of the Australian Taxation Office audit division, can be a costly and time consuming affair. So taking out a tax audit insurance policy for peace of mind, to protect you from the high, unexpected costs of ... 
Raising bilingual children when you live overseas as an expat 1 Jun, 2019 Posted in: All, Expat Life - If you are moving overseas then you probably will be enrolling your children in a local school. If this school isn’t an English-based school, it won’t be long before your child is speaking two languages as it’s amazing how quickly a young brain can adapt. ... 
Thailand tax brief for Australian expats 14 May, 2019 Posted in: All, Tax - Known as the “Land of Smiles”, Thailand is fast becoming a preferred destination for Aussie expats to live and work. This idyllic, diverse country offers a unique blend of traditional and modern. You can see this by the way Thailand looks toward the future, while ... 
How will the ATO’s cryptocurrency crackdown affect expats? 11 May, 2019 Posted in: All, Investing - Cryptocurrency investment and trading has been one a growing investment trend in recent years. Investors across the world are putting their money into cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and riding what has been a rollercoaster of ups and downs in a new frontier of investing. At the ... 
2019 Federal election – what Aussie expats need to know 1 May, 2019 Posted in: All, News & Current Events - The 2019 Federal election is almost upon us, but for most Aussie expats living and working overseas, if you’re like me, events back home in Australia are often ‘out of sight, out of mind’ both in terms of the policies, and of how to vote. ... 
Is negative gearing available to Australian expats? 29 Apr, 2019 Posted in: All, Investing - As an expat, there’s so much to consider when it comes to tax and how it affects your Australian investment property, including whether negative gearing applies. Where do we start… Negative gearing It’s something that we Aussies love. With the mention of negative gearing, approximately ... 
Top 4 US tax issues for Australian expats 23 Apr, 2019 Posted in: All, Tax - As an expat moving to the US, there are countless things to consider, including: insurance, employment, housing, a good school for the kids and more. However, one of the most important considerations that is often forgotten – taxation laws, and more specifically, the US tax ... 
Top 3 tips to set up expat health insurance abroad 2 Apr, 2019 Posted in: All, Insurance - Today, expat health insurance is an absolute necessity. It’s your assurance that when something goes wrong, you have a safety net in place. However, if you’re an expat, setting up health insurance can be very confusing. Here are three tips to help make organising an ... 
3 capital gains tax implications for non-resident beneficiaries of Australian estates 19 Mar, 2019 Posted in: All - Have you recently become the beneficiary of an Australian estate? Do you know what capital gains tax implications this can have on your Australian tax return if you’re a non-resident? If your answer is no, then here are 3 simple issues you need to consider. ... 
Main residence CGT exemption changes may not proceed 19 Mar, 2019 Posted in: All, Tax - Latest Update: 5th December 2019 – Unfortunately today the Federal Government passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Reducing Pressure on Housing Affordability Measures) Bill 2019 into law without amendment, resulting in the scrapping of the main residence exemption for non-resident Australian expats. To read more about ... 
Australians in difficulty overseas? Here’s how to get help 23 Feb, 2019 Posted in: All, Expat Life - The number of Australians that go abroad to live or travel is increasing by about 5% each year. However, travelling, living and working overseas can land you in some tricky situations, and many you might end up in a position where you’re in need of ... 
Expats returning to Australia? Here’s what you need to know 16 Feb, 2019 Posted in: All, Inbound Expats - Expat life offers a wealth of opportunities and experiences, but there comes a time when some of us wish to return to our homeland. Moving back home isn’t as straightforward as you may believe, so read on for some top tips on expats returning to ... 
Canada tax brief for Australian expats 5 Feb, 2019 Posted in: All, Tax - Canada – The Great White North Are you looking for somewhere to make a fresh start? Look no further than Canada. With world-class healthcare, a robust economy, a diverse population, stunning natural surrounds and more, it’s hardly surprising so many Aussies are relocating to Canada. ... 
Expat life – Stay or go? When’s the right time to be move overseas? 29 Jan, 2019 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats - Expat Life – Should I stay, or should I go? Considering moving overseas? So when’s the right time to start your expat life and become an Australian expat abroad? Well the answer is, it depends. Each person and family is different and the right time ... 
Why are Australians migrating? 28 Jan, 2019 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats - Every 1 minute and 58 seconds, an Australian leaves the country to live overseas, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. But what is compelling Australians to leave their birth country? Below we explore some of the possible reasons… Why are Australians migrating overseas? Cost ... 
Brexit advice for Australian expats in the UK 22 Jan, 2019 Posted in: All, News & Current Events - On the horizon since 2016, Brexit has been mired with uncertainty and so here’s some Brexit advice for Australian expats in the United Kingdom. So, how can Australian expats prepare themselves for the UK’s withdrawal from the EU? The Type of Brexit Brexit is roughly ... 
China Tax Brief for Australian Expats 4 Jan, 2019 Posted in: All, Tax - China Tax Brief For those considering moving abroad, China is an extremely popular destination to live and work, especially for Aussie expats. China presents many exciting and lucrative work opportunities. However, before making the move, it’s important to know exactly what to expect – particularly ... 
Top 3 expat destinations for lifestyle, income & taxes 2 Jan, 2019 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Living and working in a different country is an exciting adventure. A new culture and a higher salary are attractive qualities that many Aussie expats pursue. Unfortunately though, taxes follow us wherever we go. For some Aussie expats, their work will require them to divide ... 
The pros and cons of property investment for Aussie expats 20 Dec, 2018 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages - Latest Update: 5th December 2019 – Unfortunately today the Federal Government passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Reducing Pressure on Housing Affordability Measures) Bill 2019 into law without amendment, resulting in the scrapping of the main residence exemption for non-resident Australian expats. To read more about ... 
Superannuation for Australian expats – 4 considerations 29 Nov, 2018 Posted in: All, Superannuation - If you’re an Australian expat working overseas it’s very easy to lose track of your Australian superannuation. The stark reality is that the longer you’re gone, the harder it will be to create a superannuation balance that can fund your retirement. As with most things ... 
How can expats transfer money overseas cheaply? 20 Nov, 2018 Posted in: All, Money & Finance - Expat life has many perks, but transferring money between countries isn’t always one of them. One way or another, you’ll get whacked with fees. Some options are cheaper than others, however, so it’s worth knowing about these. Banks The first piece of advice most expats ... 
Top 5 tips for taking out expat health insurance 15 Nov, 2018 Posted in: All, Insurance - Sometimes it takes moving away to appreciate how good our Medicare system and Private Health Insurance system is back home in Australia. When you are living and working overseas as an Australian expat, particularly in countries like the USA, Switzerland & Norway (10 Most Expensive ... 
4 ways Aussie expats can avoid reverse culture shock on return 8 Nov, 2018 Posted in: All, Inbound Expats - Congratulations! You’ve finally accomplished your financial, lifestyle, or career goals abroad. As you zip up your suitcase and head home, take a look at ways Aussie expats can avoid reverse culture shock on a return home. 1. Take the initiative with your friends Don’t expect ... 
Intro to the Common Reporting Standard – Aussie Expats Beware! 3 Nov, 2018 Posted in: All, Tax - Update: Article updated 16th Nov 2018 with thanks to Anthony FitzGerald who correctly pointed out that the OECD currently contains 34 member countries. Overdue Australian Tax Returns? You’ll Need to Bring Your Tax Returns Up to Date . . . and soon! If you’re an ... 
Expats and social media 30 Oct, 2018 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Thanks to social media, expat life has never been better so lets take a look at expats and social media. For Australians, homesickness can be a particularly acute problem, especially when they first move overseas. After all, Australia is a remote island and our casual ... 
Property or shares tax strategies for expats? 24 Oct, 2018 Posted in: All, Investing - Latest Update: 5th December 2019 – Unfortunately today the Federal Government passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Reducing Pressure on Housing Affordability Measures) Bill 2019 into law without amendment, resulting in the scrapping of the main residence exemption for non-resident Australian expats. To read more about ... 
How new expats can adjust to a foreign workplace 16 Oct, 2018 Posted in: All, Expat Life - So, you’ve found a job overseas and you’re about to become an Australian expat. Congratulations, it’s an exciting and nerve-wracking time, all rolled up in one! You’ve done all the paperwork. You’ve got your finances sorted. Your insurance, taxes, tax returns, property and investments are ... 
Preparing for life as an expat: 4 top tips 3 Oct, 2018 Posted in: All, Expat Life - There’s nothing more exciting than preparing for life as an expat, packing up your life and moving your family to a new country. But it’s important to ensure you’re thoroughly prepared first, especially if you have young children and a growing family. Here are four ... 
Take your kids on an expat adventure – 5 reasons why 13 Sep, 2018 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Although we specialise in tax for Australian expats, we also know that for many of us, when offered an international posting, there’s a lot more to worry about than expat tax returns in Australia and so in this article we’ll take a look at some ... 
ATO Scam Alert: ATO cautions taxpayers about new phone scam 8 Sep, 2018 Posted in: All, News & Current Events - According to an ATO scam alert warning issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), July and August saw a rapid rise in the number of scam tactics used to target unsuspecting taxpayers. As the 31st October tax deadline approaches, people are starting to think about ... 
Taxation: Why US Citizens in Australia are giving up their US citizenships 21 Aug, 2018 Posted in: All, Tax - The Trump era has divided Americans. This may be one of the possible reasons why many Americans who have made Australia their second home are considering leaving their birth country for good. According to a
Australian expats and foreign employment income 15 Aug, 2018 Posted in: All, Tax - Last week Kaylene relocated to Suzhou, China to begin a three-year work contract with a UK-based university. There is a clause in her contract that allows early termination of employment. Kaylene is one of many young Australians who is attracted to the glamour and excitement ... 
Main residence exemption scrapped – Australian government lays siege to expat family homes 12 Aug, 2018 Posted in: Property & Mortgages, Tax - Latest Update: 5th December 2019 – Unfortunately today the Federal Government passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Reducing Pressure on Housing Affordability Measures) Bill 2019 into law without amendment, resulting in the scrapping of the main residence exemption for non-resident Australian expats. To read more about ... 
Cryptocurrency tax issues and tax planning strategies 31 Jul, 2018 Posted in: All, Money & Finance, Tax - By now, you’ve probably heard of cryptocurrencies such as the world famous bitcoin. After the sky-rocketing success of this platform, competitors like Litecoin, Ripple and Tron are quickly growing in popularity and widespread use. With the rise of cryptocurrency being used by the wider population ... 
Financial tips for expats returning home to Australia 4 Jul, 2018 Posted in: All, Inbound Expats - Returning to Australia for good is a financial milestone for any Australian expat, but we’ve got a few financial tips to help expats returning home to expertly plan for leaving your adopted home. Plan ahead and seek advice early! This may seem obvious, but planning ... 
Moving overseas? Tax issues to consider 19 Jun, 2018 Posted in: All, Residency, Tax - Latest Update: 5th December 2019 – Unfortunately today the Federal Government passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Reducing Pressure on Housing Affordability Measures) Bill 2019 into law without amendment, resulting in the scrapping of the main residence exemption for non-resident Australian expats. To read more about ... 
Tax Brief – UK tax for Australian expats 11 Jun, 2018 Posted in: All, Tax - For Australians who live in the UK, the question of residency for tax purposes is a thorny issue. One of the main reasons for this is that you could be a resident of both countries. So what exactly makes you a resident and how does ... 
USA tax brief for Australian expats 5 Jun, 2018 Posted in: All - It is important for Australians moving to the USA for work-related purposes to understand their tax obligations to avoid stressful encounters with tax authorities in the future. In this USA tax brief for Australian expats, we shed light on the tax obligations of Australians working ... 
New stamp duty surcharge for foreign purchases in NSW 31 May, 2018 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages - Are you an expat planning a sea change to tranquil New South Wales? Before signing on the dotted line for your new property, ensure you are aware of the new stamp duty rules set out in the 2017-2018 State Budget. These recent stamp duty changes ... 
Singapore tax brief for Australian expats 30 May, 2018 Posted in: All, Tax - If you’re an Australian expat living in Singapore, then we’ve put together a tax brief that answers all your questions when it comes to filling out your Australian tax return. Do I need to lodge an Australian return? You will need to lodge an Australian ... 
Malaysia tax brief for Australian expats 21 May, 2018 Posted in: All, Tax - If you have been looking for a job in Malaysia or have already found one and are still confused on the country’s tax structure, then worry no more. Here are the things you should know about Malaysian tax for Australian expats. Who is a resident ... 
New stamp duty surcharge for foreign purchases – NSW, QLD, SA, VIC 11 May, 2018 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages - New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Victoria states have introduced a new stamp duty surcharge for foreign purchases. Properties in these states have seen consistent increases in prices through the decade. For this reason, expat investors are in a rush to purchase any property ... 
Land tax surcharge introduced for foreign persons (VIC & NSW) 3 May, 2018 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages - Victoria and New South Wales have recently introduced a range of land tax surcharges targeting foreign investors, both individual and corporate. The aim of the surcharges is to reduce the amount of property which is purchased and held by foreign investors, pushing prices up for ... 
New stamp duty surcharges for foreign purchases in Queensland 2 May, 2018 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages - A new stamp duty surcharge for foreign purchases of property in Queensland has recently been introduced by the Queensland government. But before we get into that, lets take a look at why Queensland is such an attractive destination for Australians and foreign purchasers alike. As ... 
US Tax FAQ for Australian Expats 24 Apr, 2018 Posted in: All, Tax - If you are an Australian expat in the U.S., it is vital that you are knowledgeable about how your U.S. expat tax return will be affected by living abroad. Although we don’t currently prepare US tax returns on behalf of our Australian clients living and ... 
Make tax-free capital gains on Australian shares whilst a non-resident expat 19 Apr, 2018 Posted in: All, Investing, Tax - If you’re an Aussie expat who’s a non-resident for Australian tax purposes, then investing in shares is what you need to consider deeply. You need to understand that this investment opportunity is only applicable to Australian expats that are non-resident for Australian tax purposes. The ... 
Why Aussie expats should use a VPN service 11 Apr, 2018 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Australian expats are often surprised to find that websites, TV and other readily accessible features are blocked when they arrive overseas. Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help you to overcome this challenge and this has many other benefits too. In this article we ... 
Selling property in the UK – beware the UK’s new non-resident CGT rules 5 Apr, 2018 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages, Tax - Are you thinking of selling property in the UK? As an expat in Britain, you need to be aware of changes to the law which could see extra taxes levied against the profit your property sale produces. It is important to be aware of the ... 
5 essential tax tips for Australians moving to the UK 30 Mar, 2018 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats, Tax - Here’s some important tax tips for Australians moving to the UK Beginning a new career overseas, or setting down roots in a different country is an exciting prospect for many. And with so many similarities to Australia, yet much more diverse (and cooler) weather, the ... 
UK Tax traps for Australian expats 21 Mar, 2018 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats, Tax - Australia has a tax treaty with the UK but things aren’t as simple as they may seem at the outset. Expats working in the UK can still fall into some UK tax traps. Resident or tax resident? Residency is more complicated in the UK than ... 
The power of property – investing in Australian property 13 Mar, 2018 Posted in: All, Investing, Property & Mortgages - Are you an expat searching for an investment opportunity? Are you looking for an investment which generates high returns in a politically stable environment? Stop searching – investing in Australian property could be your answer. With a land mass equal to the US and only ... 
Australian tax planning – Bitcoin & cryptocurrencies 7 Mar, 2018 Posted in: All, Investing, Tax - In recent times cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin and Ripple have seen huge rises. However, they have also seen plummeting drops. The cryptocurrency market can be a wild ride and you might be thinking that it’s time to get off and cash out, but ... 
Is my superannuation assessable in my US tax return? A detailed overview 2 Mar, 2018 Posted in: All, Superannuation - Laws surrounding superannuation can be complicated. Things become even more complex if you have superannuation along with an American expatriate tax filing requirement as a resident or citizen. To clear up some of the confusion, we will examine how superannuation is taxed in the US ... 
How does negative gearing work for Australian expats? 15 Feb, 2018 Posted in: All, Tax - If you’ve paid attention to the news lately, you’ve no doubt heard the term “negative gearing”. It has become somewhat of a political football – with the Liberal and National parties supporting current arrangements, while Labour intends to change it. But what exactly is negative ... 
Is my superannuation subject to tax in my US tax return? 8 Feb, 2018 Posted in: All, Superannuation, Tax - Superannuation requirements around tax time can be confusing at the best of times. However, if you’re an Aussie expat living in the US, superannuation rules are even more complex. To clear some of the confusion, this blog will help explain your responsibilities regarding superannuation and ... 
4 tips for the returning Aussie expat 2 Feb, 2018 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Believe it or not, one of the biggest challenges in the adventures of an Australian expat has little to do with what actually happens overseas. It’s what happens when the adventure is over and they return home that can bite the hardest. During that time ... 
The ties that bind – paying child support when you’re an expat 29 Jan, 2018 Posted in: All, Money & Finance - One of the attractions of going overseas is the lure of the clean slate, so that you land in a new country with a different future and the opportunity to reinvent yourself. This sort of attraction is no doubt all the more acute when an ... 
Australian expats and the right to vote 23 Jan, 2018 Posted in: All, Other - Let’s face it – voting is not something most Australians look forward to. It’s a complex process at the best of times; a process which becomes even more complicated for Australian expats. What are the current Australian expat voting rules? Many Aussie expats are understandably ... 
The HECS, HELP and TLS shirt tail effect 15 Jan, 2018 Posted in: All, Tax - Many overseas destinations welcome young Australians to live and work. For the best and brightest of Australia’s young, the expat experience is a rite of passage. However, the best and brightest young Australians often have a HELP debt or Trade Support Loan (TSL). A visit ... 
Australian Taxes – the State (and Territories) of the Nation 4 Jan, 2018 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages, Tax - Aussie expats need to keep a keen eye on State and Territory revenue concerns. An Australian income tax return is not the end of revenue reporting obligations if you’re an Australian expat with an interest in real estate back at home or if you’re thinking ... 
Bitcoin and Australian tax – 7 questions answered 22 Dec, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - Unless you’ve been under a rock for the past few weeks, the end of 2017 has been all about Bitcoin. While the last few hours have seen the price drop a little, the value of the leading ‘cryptocurrency’ has actually been skyrocketing. Bitcoin may be ... 
Super-yacht crew – is my income tax-free? 15 Dec, 2017 Posted in: All, Residency, Tax - Leaving Australia to join the crew of a super-yacht or cruise ship somewhere overseas may sound exciting, but it’s actually increasingly popular. More and more Aussie expats are saying ‘no’ to that traditional gig in an English pub, and ‘yes’ to cruising the Mediterranean on ... 
How the changes to Foreign Resident Capital Gains Withholding Tax impacts expats 8 Dec, 2017 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages, Tax - If you’re considering selling any Australian real estate, take some time to think about how the sale could impact your taxes particularly in light of recent tax changes introduced by the Australian federal government. If you’re an Australian expat that’s thinking about selling your property ... 
Tax issues to consider when moving back to Australia 5 Dec, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - Moving back home after working overseas for a long time can be a hectic and exciting time for many former residents of Australia. However, there’s some important tax issues to consider when moving back to Australia, issues that you should perhaps consider before getting tied ... 
Guide to becoming an expat 13 Nov, 2017 Posted in: All, Expat Life - So you’re thinking of becoming an expat but aren’t certain what to expect? Here’s a guide with vital information for travellers to better prepare you for your experience. Leaving Arranging your method of transport to your new country is one of the simplest things you ... 
Helping your spouse to adapt to life overseas as an expat partner 6 Nov, 2017 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Working overseas as an expat worker can be a good alternative to working on a FIFO (fly in fly out) roster for many workers in remote locations. However, if your partner or spouse is not working in the new country, it can be quite hard ... 
Relocating to Australia after working overseas: some tax issues to consider 1 Nov, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - Moving home after spending time as an expat can be both exciting and daunting. On one hand, you can look forward to catching up with friends, speaking your own language and familiar surroundings. On the other hand, settling back in can be challenging and, if ... 
4 expat tax myths debunked 5 Oct, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - The number one thing many Aussie expats get wrong is to assume too much. Often, life-changing decisions about leaving the country and setting up somewhere else are done over a pint or three at the pub – and based on assumptions that may turn out ... 
A guide to Chilean tax for Australian expatriates 29 Sep, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - Due to Chile’s robust mining sector, it is a popular location for Australian expatriates to head on a work assignment. Unfortunately, much of the local information on taxation is written in Spanish, which can be confusing even for relatively confident Spanish readers as it contains ... 
Do my insurance policies cover me when I’m overseas? 14 Sep, 2017 Posted in: All, Insurance - While making the decision to live and work overseas can offer some fantastic cultural and financial benefits, it’s important to be aware of any changes that can come into effect when you become an expat, such as whether or not you’ll be able to claim ... 
4 reasons every expat should use a VPN 6 Sep, 2017 Posted in: All, Expat Life - In 2017, one of the top pieces of advice offered to those who are about to embark on life as an expatriate contains a three-letter acronym you may not have heard of before: VPN. We’re going to explain how this little gem could indeed make ... 
6 steps for getting your tax and money sorted before you leave 30 Aug, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - One of the most important tasks all Australian expats must do before they leave to work or live overseas is to sort out their tax and money matters. If you do not take the time to set these up properly before you leave and problems ... 
What expats need to consider before buying a business overseas 18 Aug, 2017 Posted in: All, Money & Finance - While buying a business overseas can have a multitude of benefits for expats wanting a change of lifestyle and more opportunities, it’s important to do the ground work before jumping in head on. To help ensure you cover all your bases before investing in a ... 
What tax information exchange agreements mean for you as an Australian expat 11 Aug, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - Contrary to popular belief, different nations’ governments do work together. Offshore tax havens and tax evasions are being broken down and prevented by governments binding together and creating tax information exchange agreements. For an Australian expat who is completing Australian tax returns or expat tax ... 
New property tax may cost expats thousands 4 Aug, 2017 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages, Tax - If you’re an Australian expat with a property back home, you may have missed a crucial detail in the federal government’s latest budget announcements. Hopefully, it’s not too late to make a good decision today that could cost you thousands – even though the changes ... 
Schooling for Australian expat children 29 Jul, 2017 Posted in: All, Expat Life - One of the biggest concerns for expat parents is the subject of schooling for their children. It is hard to know which school would suit your child best. It is even harder if the country you are relocating to is far from your current base, ... 
Superannuation contributions for Australian expats 11 Jul, 2017 Posted in: All, Superannuation - If you’re planning on working overseas and you want to continue to make superannuation contributions in Australia, it’s important to understand the best way to proceed with this. While non-residents are eligible to make superannuation contributions there are rules relating to this. So that you ... 
Common deductions for Fly In Fly Out workers 4 Jul, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - When you’re working as a FIFO worker, it’s good to know what deductions you’re eligible to claim. There’s a wide variety of tax deductions and offsets that you can claim when working remotely to compensate for isolation and climate factors, and high living costs that ... 
Sending money back to Australia – the best rates and services 29 Jun, 2017 Posted in: All, Money & Finance - So you’ve earned yourself a wad of cash overseas and you’re thinking about sending money back to Australia. Whether it’s a substantial amount or not, you want to ensure that it can be safely transferred back to Australia with as little bother as possible. Lucky ... 
The best apps and websites for Australian expats 21 Jun, 2017 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Making the move abroad and meeting new people in a country you don’t know can definitely be intimidating for Australians considering the expat life. To better manage your expenses overseas and to maximise your expat experience, here’s a list of the top most useful expat ... 
Am I an Australian resident for tax purposes? 10 factors to consider 17 Jun, 2017 Posted in: All, Residency - When it comes to lodging Australian expat tax returns, it’s important to understand whether you are an Australian resident for tax purposes or not. Why is this important? Well, first and foremost, if you are taxed as an Australian resident, you will be required to ... 
Negative gearing tips for Australian expats 13 Jun, 2017 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages - The Australian Government strongly welcomes overseas investors in the property market. The term ‘negative gearing’ constantly gets thrown into political discussions by both Liberal and National parties who support negative gearing options. So, what is negative gearing? Negative gearing is an established practice where an ... 
How to calculate my worldwide income for HECS/HELP debt purposes 6 Jun, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - Long post alert – sadly, as is often the case with with Australian tax, our tax rules are unnecessarily confusing! So it’s probably no surprise that the rules for working out “how to calculate my worldwide income” for HECS/HELP debt reporting purposes are also unnecessarily ... 
How to stay connected, manage your tax and finances while overseas 31 May, 2017 Posted in: All, Expat Life - If you are an Aussie expat living overseas you will want to stay connected with Australia as well as connect with other Aussies abroad. You may also have assets or investments in Australia that you will need to manage while you are overseas. Here are ... 
We’ve got your Australian tax returns covered! 31 May, 2017 Posted in: All, Other - Tax time 2017 – it’s not far away! With the 2017 financial year quickly coming to an end (it’s only a month away), your 2017 tax returns will need to be prepared soon. No stress though because: Wherever you are, whatever you do . . ... 
5 ways to get involved in your local community while abroad 17 May, 2017 Posted in: All, Expat Life - Your expat experience is only as good as the effort you put into it. To make the most of your adventure, get involved in your local community, be that with fellow expats or locals. You’ll meet new people and try things you’ve never tried before. ... 
2017 Federal Budget – Expats clear losers 11 May, 2017 Posted in: All, Budget Updates - Latest Update: 5th December 2019 – Unfortunately today the Federal Government passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Reducing Pressure on Housing Affordability Measures) Bill 2019 into law without amendment, resulting in the scrapping of the main residence exemption for non-resident Australian expats. To read more about ... 
Tax implications for transferring foreign super funds to Australia 10 May, 2017 Posted in: All, Superannuation - If you are an Australian resident for tax purposes and you have a foreign super fund, you need to know the tax implications for transferring this fund to Australia. The amounts you transfer from your foreign super fund may be taxable in Australia. But there ... 
Medicare for Australian citizens overseas 3 May, 2017 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Tax - 28th Nov 2019 – UPDATE: Firstly, thank you to David W who let us know via Facebook, that the Department of Human Services website has recently been changed to omit a key statement about the ability for non-residents to continue to use Medicare for a ... 
Tax residency and tax implications for expat Australians 26 Apr, 2017 Posted in: All, Residency, Tax - To understand your tax situation, all Expat Australians must first work out if they are Australian or foreign residents for tax purposes. Generally, if you are a resident of Australia, leaving or intending to leave the country temporarily and do not plan to set up ... 
The 6-year rule: tax advantages of renting out your principal residence 19 Apr, 2017 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages, Tax - Latest Update: 5th December 2019 – Following on from our last update, the Federal Government today passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Reducing Pressure on Housing Affordability Measures) Bill 2019 into law without amendment, resulting in the scrapping of the main residence exemption for non-resident Australian ... 
Expat Australians must now pay back student loans 10 Apr, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - Update – 9th May 2017: Please note that the Australian government handed down it’s 2017 Australian Federal budget today, with proposals to reduce the HELP debt repayment thresholds. It is expected that this will catch significantly more expats in the HELP debt repayment loop, than ... 
Preparing to move overseas 3 Apr, 2017 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats - Every year, thousands of Australian residents pack up their belongings to start a new life overseas. For some this move is only temporary (1-2 years), while for others it’s a permanent change. However, before you book your one-way tickets, there are a few things you ... 
4 big challenges faced by expat partners 28 Mar, 2017 Posted in: All, Expat Life - So, your partner’s scored an amazing job offer. The problem is, it’s in a country far from home. You don’t want to hold him/her back, but you’re also anxious. What will following your partner overseas mean for you? Here are some challenges you might face ... 
Tax rules to change for expats in the UK 18 Mar, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - If you’re an Australian living in the UK, there are some important things that you need to know. From 6th April 2017, there are some new regulations coming into effect that may change the way your tax is calculated and could impact on how much ... 
Where are the world’s lowest tax rates? 11 Mar, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - If you’re in the process of choosing a new home you might take a look at these low-taxing nations. It’s a great strategy to maximise wealth. But don’t let the tax rate define your ultimate decision, though. There’s many other factors you need to consider ... 
Tips for sending money home to Australia 27 Feb, 2017 Posted in: All, Money & Finance - When you are living and working overseas as an Australian expat, there are many circumstances under which you may want to send money home to Australia. Here are a few things you should keep in mind. Make sure your money is secure This is by ... 
Are You Covered? Trauma & Life Insurance for Aussie expats 17 Feb, 2017 Posted in: All, Insurance - Life insurance and trauma insurance: for many ordinary Australians, it just makes sense. And for expats, it could be nothing short of a must. As we mature and fulfil our lives with family and financial responsibilities, it’s prudent to have something in place as back ... 
Do I need to lodge a tax return while living overseas? 13 Feb, 2017 Posted in: All, Residency, Tax - One of the most common questions that we receive is ” Do I need to lodge a tax return while living overseas?”. This seems like an easy question that should come with a yes/no answer, but of course, it’s Australian tax, so that it means ... 
Aussie expats: pay attention to those passenger cards! 6 Feb, 2017 Posted in: All - As an Aussie expat, there are plenty of things you need to consider. But one thing about expat life that is commonly disregarded or not given enough attention is the outgoing and incoming passenger cards. We’re talking about that document that passengers fill out when ... 
Banking Tips For Aussie Expats 31 Jan, 2017 Posted in: All, Money & Finance - As a new expat, there are plenty of things to think about. You’ll need the right visa or permit, a job, somewhere to live, family arrangements to make, insurance and health care to think about, culture shock, mobile phones, the logistics of the move itself, ... 
3 ways to ensure great expat tax advice 25 Jan, 2017 Posted in: All, Tax - Successfully navigating your transition from a comfortable resident of your home country to an expat is notoriously difficult to do alone. So if you’ve made the decision to seek some expert advice, that’s a great first step to ensuring you get on the right track ... 
4 financial considerations of returning home 13 Jan, 2017 Posted in: All, Inbound Expats, Money & Finance - Of course, not all Australian expats return home, but many see their overseas forays as an extended adventure and eventually want to enjoy our excellent lifestyle again. So as an Aussie, you can definitely come home. But while slipping back into the Australian lifestyle might ... 
5 common expat financial mistakes to avoid 7 Jan, 2017 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Money & Finance - Becoming an expat is an ever more popular way to turn your entire life upside down with an all-encompassing adventure. But it’s also easy to make mistakes financially and be left in serious trouble. So here are some common expat financial mistakes that you should ... 
About to become an expat? 3 Jan, 2017 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Outbound Expats - You’re about to become an expat and you’ll soon relocate overseas. It’s a new year, a new job and a new country. As exciting as the prospect of becoming an expat is, there’s sure to be a part of you that’s apprehensive. You’re leaving behind ... 
Compulsory HECS Repayments by Expats 31 Dec, 2016 Posted in: All, Tax - Update – 9th May 2017: Please note that the Australian government handed down it’s 2017 Australian Federal budget today, with proposals to reduce the HELP debt repayment thresholds. It is expected that this will catch significantly more expats in the HELP debt repayment loop, than ... 
Australian property – 3 reasons expats should consider 14 Dec, 2016 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages - So you’re about to become an Australian expat – congratulations on your impending adventure! But when it comes to the Australian property market, should you really be cutting all your ties, even though you’ll be living overseas for the foreseeable future? We think not. Of ... 
Negative gearing your investment property while living overseas 8 Dec, 2016 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages - Investing in property is an investment in the future. The property market in Australia is skyrocketing, and with record low interest rates, now is a good time to buy. If you are an expat looking to invest in an Australian property, there are a few ... 
Avoiding expat tax traps 30 Nov, 2016 Posted in: All, Tax - For many young Australians, going overseas to work for an extended period of time after graduating is almost a right of passage. It provides you with a chance to see the world, achieve independence, go on an adventure and gain valuable work experience. Every year, ... 
15 ways to lose Australian tax residency status 24 Nov, 2016 Posted in: All, Residency, Tax - One benefit of becoming an Aussie expat is that moving to your new country could have significant tax benefits. But before you can reap the benefits of a lower taxing country, you’ll need to convince the Australian government that you are no longer regarded as ... 
Tax advantages of renting out your home while working overseas 16 Nov, 2016 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages, Tax - Do you own a home in Australia but are about to move overseas for work? If you find yourself in this situation, you are probably in the process of deciding whether you should be renting out your home while working overseas. The good news is ... 
Common deductions for expat fly in fly out workers 11 Nov, 2016 Posted in: All, Tax - Expat fly in fly out workers fall under different tax laws and regulations to your normal expatriate, and by not knowing this, you might be missing out on a host of savings through deductions you may not know you’re eligible for. Overseas forces I’ve you’ve ... 
A few common tax questions for Aussie expats 2 Nov, 2016 Posted in: All, Tax - Life as an expatriate can be exciting and a true adventure – but that’s not to say it’s straightforward. That is particularly true for Aussie expats from a tax perspective, as it can be difficult to know exactly what to do to seamlessly hop between ... 
The best apps and websites for Australian expats 26 Oct, 2016 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Other - Moving overseas and about to become an Australian expat? Then make sure you have these apps on your phone before you go. They will make your life easier and potentially even save you money! Skype Many of us already use Skype from our laptops, but ... 
Sending money back to Australia – tips and tricks 13 Oct, 2016 Posted in: All, Money & Finance - When sending money back to Australia, there are a variety of things you should be aware of before proceeding with a transaction. Depending on the type of money, and the size of the sum, different taxation laws and fees will apply. Being aware of this ... 
Leaving Australia to work overseas? Here are some tax issues to consider 6 Oct, 2016 Posted in: All, Outbound Expats, Tax - Update – 9th May 2017: Please note that the Australian government handed down it’s 2017 Australian Federal budget today, with proposals to stop non-residents from being able to access the main residence capital gains tax exemption (discussed in our original article below) from 9th May ... 
The ‘hidden costs’ of expat living 28 Sep, 2016 Posted in: All, Expat Life, Money & Finance - Moving and living abroad as an expat is regarded by most who take the plunge as nothing short of an adventure. But that’s not to say it’s a decision that is to be taken lightly. To do it right, you’ll need to plan well from ... 
Figuring out the cost of living overseas 23 Sep, 2016 Posted in: All, Money & Finance, Outbound Expats - The cost of living when moving overseas can certainly be expensive, and even more so if you don’t plan efficiently. Becoming an expat in a foreign place is daunting enough without having to worry about money issues. The best way to avoid any money related ... 
Expats and bank accounts: what to consider 14 Sep, 2016 Posted in: All, Money & Finance - Expats and bank accounts, the options can be confusing. When you go on a holiday overseas, a bank or credit card that works anywhere in the world is typically all that you need! But if you’re going overseas to work or live, it’s a slightly ... 
Key differences for Australians moving to the United States 6 Sep, 2016 Posted in: All, Expat Life - So, you’ve done it. You’ve committed to the move to the USA: for the adventure, for the fun, for the money, for whatever reason. You’ve got your visa issues handled, and now you’re looking into what else you’ll need to adjust before migrating to the ... 
Student HELP debt loophole closed to Aussie expats 31 Aug, 2016 Posted in: All - Update – 9th May 2017: Please note that the Australian government handed down it’s 2017 Australian Federal budget today, with proposals to reduce the HELP debt repayment thresholds. It is expected that this will catch significantly more expats in the HELP debt repayment loop, than ... 
What you need to know about reporting your overseas income 24 Aug, 2016 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages - If you were living as an expat in a foreign country and have just relocated back to Australia, when you file your next Australian tax return you will need to report your overseas income. All your foreign employment wages need to be reported on this ... 
How expats can avoid property buying hurdles 10 Aug, 2016 Posted in: All, Property & Mortgages - With the unrest in Europe, many Australian expats are looking to return to Australia. Expats who are seeking to buy a residence in Australia though are finding that tougher lending guidelines are a restriction. However, expats with Australian rental property may be better off. Australian ... 
Preparing your children for a move overseas 4 Aug, 2016 Posted in: All - Becoming an expat in a new land can be stressful, and even more so if you are preparing your children for a move overseas. You might worry about how your children will fit into their new environment, if they will make friends and whether they ... 
3 ways to make moving overseas less stressful 29 Jul, 2016 Posted in: All - The overseas move you’re about to embark on marks a new and exciting phase in your life. Yet making sure everything is in order before the move, then trying to settle in and adjust to a new house, job and language in a completely different ... 
4 key financial issues for Aussie expats 22 Jul, 2016 Posted in: All - Leaving Australia to become Aussie expats? It’s just a matter of packing your bags and making sure you have a few dollars in your pocket, right? Not quite. As a soon-to-be Australian expatriate, you have a lot to think about and plan, and much of ... 
3 important questions expats need to ask before moving 12 Jul, 2016 Posted in: All - It’s an exciting time. You’re about to start an adventure. Soon you’ll be working overseas as an expat. But before you go, there’s 3 important questions expats need to ask before relocating overseas. Under Australian law, if you and your family are relocating to another ... 
New investment scheme open to expat investors 28 Jun, 2016 Posted in: All - New tax incentives for Australian and expat investors are to be introduced in Australia. These will give significant tax breaks to expats looking to invest in an Australian start-up business. These new legislation changes were announced by the Australian government in Canberra recently. The draft ... 
Top 5 tips for learning a new language as an expat 21 Jun, 2016 Posted in: All - Living and working in a foreign country offers a myriad of new experiences including learning a new language. In many countries, it’s surprisingly easy to live for years and years speaking only English. But, to get the most out of your experience, try familiarising yourself ... 
How to get financial help as an expat 9 Jun, 2016 Posted in: All - Just because you’ve moved from Australia doesn’t mean you won’t need some help and advice about your tax returns and financial situation any more – in fact, you will probably need that sort of advice even more! That’s because while you are well accustomed to ... 
Culture immersion – from expat to local citizen 2 Jun, 2016 Posted in: All - Moving to a foreign country is a big deal. You have to go through a lot of admin, like your Australian tax return and paperwork, just to get there, and then settling in can be a challenge, especially if you have children. It’s so easy ... 
Don’t fall into an expat tax trap 26 May, 2016 Posted in: All - Life as an Australian expat certainly has its benefits, as anyone who has travelled extensively or worked abroad and exposed themselves to different cultures and adventures will tell you. It might also make great financial sense, and have a range of legitimate tax benefits that ... 
Start your move abroad with these 4 tips 20 May, 2016 Posted in: All - Making the bold decision to leave your home country to re-settle overseas is as scary as it is exciting. But because life really begins when you step out of your comfort zone, here are four financial tips to help you start your adventure on the ... 
5 mistakes expats make with their tax returns 12 May, 2016 Posted in: All - If you’ve made the exciting move from Australia to foreign shores, you’re probably enjoying learning all about your new home and having interesting cultural experiences. But as well as all the fun, there are many practicalities you need to consider, including filing your Australian tax ... 
How to find the perfect apartment overseas 6 May, 2016 Posted in: All - So you’ve decided to pack your bags and move away from Australia. Congratulations! Wherever in the world you’re planning on heading to, you’re going to need a place to live, and unless your employer has already got this sorted out for you, you’ll need to ... 
Tips for home schooling your children when living as an expat 26 Apr, 2016 Posted in: All - Aside from concerning yourself with your Australian tax return while you’re living as an expat overseas, you may also need to think about school for your children. A large number of Australian expats choose to home school their children when they move overseas. It helps ... 
3 attractive destinations for Aussie expats 20 Apr, 2016 Posted in: All - For many Australians who are part of the daily grind in one of our crowded cities, the thought of moving overseas and starting afresh can be tempting. A big move to a new, exciting country you are unfamiliar with can be scary, yes. It can ... 
Building wealth as an expat 29 Mar, 2016 Posted in: All - You’ve made a choice to work overseas, but no one said that you had to forgo your right to strive for great wealth. In fact, living the expat life can be made more extraordinary with a good income stream. Let’s take a look at some ... 
Interesting facts about expat life 22 Mar, 2016 Posted in: All - A recent survey of over 14,000 global expats has revealed some interesting facts about expat life and living away from your home country. The survey, conducted by Munich-based InterNations, went to over 1.5 million of its members in over 390 cities. They asked their expat ... 
3 issues expats should not overlook 16 Mar, 2016 Posted in: All - Common issues that expats shouldn’t ignore When preparing to leave Australia and become an expat, there are many things you need to consider. From figuring out what to do with your belongings to learning how to handle your Australian tax returns and working out your ... 
Owning Australian investment property 8 Mar, 2016 Posted in: All - Owning Australian investment property as an expat can be a great way of accumulating and growing wealth! No matter how far and wide we travel, owning that great Australian beachside property back home in Oz might be a dream that never leaves us. So now, ... 
Preparing for expat life: expat etiquette 7 Mar, 2016 Posted in: All - Expat etiquette Moving overseas can be one of life’s most exciting and fulfilling adventures. You are leaving what you are used to and embarking on an adventure into the unknown. What will the culture be like? How about the food . . . what will ... 
Thinking of moving to Australia and starting a business? 4 Mar, 2016 Posted in: All - Thinking of moving to Australia and starting a business? If the answer is “yes”, there are a few important points you need to consider first. As well as having a sound business plan that covers all areas of your new venture, you should ensure you’re ... 
Can I move my business overseas? 24 Feb, 2016 Posted in: All - Can I move my business overseas is a question that we hear from time to time. There are a few circumstances that might make you want to up your sails and take your business overseas. Your business could be growing and have a global reach, ... 
Preparing for expat life: documents 20 Feb, 2016 Posted in: All - Sorting your documents For expats preparing to head overseas, there’s a million things to do and so it’s very easy to forget about getting your personal, historical documents together. It’s an important step, because invariably, at some point soon after you land in your new ... 
Preparing for expat life: budgeting 12 Feb, 2016 Posted in: All - Budgeting for expat life is just as important as it was when you lived and worked in Australia! Once your big move overseas has happened, and you are slowly settling into expat life in your destination of choice, it can be easy to forget that ... 
Lunar New Year 2016 8 Feb, 2016 Posted in: All, Inbound Expats - Lunar New Year 2016 – Chúc Mừng Năm Mới To all of our clients, colleagues, and friends based in Vietnam & abroad We wish you all a very Happy New Year – we hope everybody has a fun and happy break over Tet, and that ... 
Preparing for expat life: moving 19 Jan, 2016 Posted in: All - If you’re planning to go overseas and become an expat, there are a number of things you need to sort before making your big move, including preparing for expat life. Often the first thing that comes to mind is getting your Australian tax returns and ... 
Financial planning for Australian expats 4 Jan, 2016 Posted in: All - Financial planning for Australian expats – it’s just so important, perhaps even more so than for Australian residents! Aside from the sheer adventure of living and working overseas, working as an expat can be a great way to grow your wealth. And if you’re working ... 
Complexity of Australian tax residency 29 Dec, 2015 Posted in: All, Inbound Expats - As Australians, we love to travel. We pursue adventure, work, fun, love, and life on every corner of Earth.As an Australian citizen, you may intend on returning to the land of Oz after your travels and plans may change once you fall in love with ... 
Only 5 sleeps until the hairy, jolly man arrives! 20 Dec, 2015 Posted in: All, Other
5 tips for finding expat accountants 19 Dec, 2015 Posted in: All - A good accountant can be a huge economic (and emotional) benefit when you’re on home turf. When you’re overseas, finding that perfect accounting firm can be even more important. Unfortunately, being an expat means that the task of finding an accountant that you can trust ... 
Australian expats to repay HELP debts 15 Dec, 2015 Posted in: All
Happy Thanksgiving from the team at Expat Tax Australia 27 Nov, 2015 Posted in: News & Current Events- ATO targets visa holders 4 Aug, 2015 Posted in: News & Current Events
Uber takes on the Australian Taxation Office 3 Aug, 2015 Posted in: All, Tax
Expat Tax Services – Our re-branding 27 Jul, 2015 Posted in: All, News & Current Events
Thanks Mr Rudd! – Aussie expats face huge tax bills – Singapore 8 May, 2009 Posted in: All, Budget Updates
