How can expats invest their money? Well, the process is easier than you think, but it’s making sure that you understand all the parts that go with it; that’s the trickier part. Similar to finding someone to undertake work in your house, in principle, it’s an easy thing to do, but it takes a lot of research and quotes, similar to investing as an expat.
Yes, you can invest as an expat, but your options change based on your residency.
- Low Cost: Use an international platform like Saxo or Interactive Brokers.
- Tax Managed: Use an offshore bond if you are in a high-tax country (Spain/Thailand).
- Pension Focus: Use an International SIPP to keep your UK tax benefits.
When you are looking at investing, there are a few key aspects you will need to understand first: your risk appetite, your current knowledge of investing, what you want to achieve and any local tax laws. This gives you a starting point, and you can then start to look at platforms and whether you would like an advisor.
A piece of advice I’ve given to lots over the years is that when looking for advisors, make sure you speak to several so that you can compare what they offer, and charge and begin to understand the finer details. Some platforms are great for DIY investors, and others will only be available through advisors.
This article will go over some of the main questions that get asked about investing as an expat. Some of the options you have, and some considerations.
Steps and Considerations for Expats
Here are some general steps and considerations for expats looking to invest:
I have written over 600 blogs to date, and even though I am biased, starting off by reading some blogs, watching some of my videos on YouTube and then starting to understand your next steps. I must admit, a financial advisor isn’t for everyone, and it’s important to understand the elements you need to be aware of.
Expats can often ask me how they can get started, or they are interested in starting something because they are looking into the future and want to make sure that they are secure.
Understand local regulations: Research and understand the investment regulations in the country where you reside. Some countries may have restrictions on foreign investments or specific requirements for expatriates.
Consult with a financial advisor: Seek advice from a financial advisor who is knowledgeable about both the local regulations and the potential investment options. They can help you develop a strategy based on your financial goals and the legal framework in your host country.
Choose appropriate investment vehicles: Depending on your goals, risk tolerance, and the regulatory environment, you may consider various investment options such as local stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or real estate.
Consider tax implications: Understand the tax implications of your investments both in your host country and your home country. Tax treaties and regulations can impact how your investment income is taxed, and it’s essential to be aware of any reporting requirements.
Open a local investment account: If required by local regulations, open a local investment account to facilitate the process. Choose a reputable financial institution that complies with local laws.
Diversify your investments: Diversification is a key principle in investment strategy. Spread your investments across different assets to reduce risk.
Stay informed: Keep yourself informed about changes in local regulations, economic conditions, and market trends that may impact your investments.
Where can expats invest their money (non-U.S)?
I get asked a lot of questions via email about platforms expats can use, some platforms expats can access, and the ones I favour are Saxo, Novia, Ardan and Morningstar. For me, I recommend each one depending on the use. Saxo is good for low cost, and Novia has a Stocks and Shares option alongside a SIPP wrapper for expats who want to transfer or create a pension.
Articles I have written are, and there is more below:
Novia Global:
- Overview: Novia Global is a wealth management platform providing services to financial advisers, wealth managers, and their clients.
- Services: It offers a range of services, including custody, administration, and an investment platform with access to various investment options such as funds, equities, and bonds.
- Target Audience: Primarily aimed at financial professionals and intermediaries.
Website: Novia Global – Home (novia-global.com)
Ardan International:
- Overview: Ardan International is a platform that facilitates international investment solutions for financial advisers, institutions, and high-net-worth individuals.
- Services: Offers a range of wealth management and investment solutions, including custody, dealing, and access to a variety of financial instruments.
- Target Audience: Primarily serves financial advisers, institutions, and high-net-worth individuals seeking international investment opportunities.
: Ardan website: Wealth Management Platform for International Investors – Ardan International (ardan-international.com)
Saxo Bank:
- Overview: Saxo Bank is a Danish investment bank and trading platform known for providing online trading and investment services.
- Services: Offers a comprehensive trading platform with access to stocks, bonds, forex, commodities, options, and futures. It caters to both individual and institutional clients.
- Regulation: Regulated by financial authorities in Denmark and other jurisdictions.
Website: Trading Platforms & Software | Saxo Markets (home.saxo)
Swissquote:
- Overview: Swissquote is a Swiss banking group that provides online financial and trading services.
- Services: Offers a wide range of services, including online trading, forex trading, robo-advisory services, and traditional banking services. Provides access to various financial instruments.
- Regulation: Regulated by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA).
Website: Swissquote: Trade Forex and CFDs with an Expert in Online Trading
Platform comparison for expats
| Feature | Saxo Bank | Swissquote | Novia Global | Ardan International |
| Platform Type | Digital Broker | Swiss Online Bank | Advisor Platform | Advisor Platform |
| Best For | DIY / Active Traders | Safety & Multi-Currency | ISA/SIPP Transfers | Wealth Management |
| Annual Custody Fee | 0.12% (Classic) | 0.15% (approx.) | 0.45% – 0.10% (Tiered) | 0.40% – 0.25% (Tiered) |
| Trading Fees | From 0.08% | From $9.00 flat | $5.00 (Funds) / 0.05% (Stocks) | £5.00 (Funds) / £25.00 (Stocks) |
| Currency Conversion | 0.25% | 0.95% | 0.50% (via stockbroker) | 0.00% (No Ardan FX fee) |
| Account Minimum | $2,000 (Recommended) | $1,000 | Determined by Advisor | No Minimum |
| Trust Options | None | Limited | Full SIPP/Trust integration | Free Beneficiary Trust |
| Regulation | Denmark / UK / SG | Switzerland (FINMA) | UK (FCA) | Isle of Man (FSA) |
| Access Model | Direct (DIY) | Direct (DIY) | Advisor-Only | Advisor-Only |
Can I keep my Vanguard investments and keep low-cost ETFs?
Yes, all these have low-cost ETF options open to them.
When dealing with the majority of expats, they are looking for something which is low-cost, and they can transfer what they might have in the UK, for example, to a platform where they can access it offshore.
Expats who are considered sophisticated might want to look at alternative investments such as property or structured notes, which seem to be the ones I get asked about most.
If you are looking for a way to save, rather than a savings plan which locks you in for periods of time and most likely will pay something to an advisor, a platform and either a fixed return product or portfolio will offer greater flexibility.
What is the taxation of investing abroad?
The taxation of investments for non-U.S. expats will depend on the tax laws of both the country where the investments are held and the country of residence. Here’s a simplified example:
Let’s say you are a non-U.S. expat living in the UAE, where there is no income tax. You invest in assets in a no-tax jurisdiction like the Isle of Man. In this case, you may not have to pay taxes on the income or capital gains in the Isle of Man.
However, your tax liability may still be determined by the tax laws of the UAE. Some countries tax their residents on their worldwide income, while others may only tax income earned within their borders. In the example of the UAE, where there is no income tax, you might not owe taxes on your foreign investments. However, it’s crucial to check the tax laws of your specific country of residence.
Additionally, some countries have tax treaties with each other to avoid double taxation, allowing you to offset taxes paid in one jurisdiction against taxes owed in another. Again, the specifics will depend on the tax laws and any applicable tax treaties in place.
The ‘Frozen Account’ Risk: Why your UK bank might close your investment account in 2026
In many cases, you can keep your U.K. investment account if you move abroad. However, there are a few things to consider:
Residency Requirements: Some financial institutions may have residency requirements for account holders. Before moving abroad, check with your investment provider to ensure that you can maintain your account from a different country.
Tax Implications: Moving abroad may have tax implications for your investments. Different countries have different tax laws, and you may be subject to taxation in both your home country and the country of residence. Consult with a tax advisor to understand any potential tax consequences.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that your investment account complies with the regulatory requirements of both the U.K. and the country where you reside. Some countries have specific regulations regarding foreign financial accounts, and you may need to report your holdings to local authorities.
Communication and Access: Consider how you will manage your investment account from abroad. Ensure that you have reliable internet access and understand how you can communicate with your financial institution if needed.
Currency Considerations: If you are moving to a country with a different currency, be mindful of potential currency exchange rate fluctuations. This can impact the value of your investments and may also involve currency conversion fees.
If you are a UK expat who has an ISA and you are contemplating taking it out, Novia have a product where UK expats can transfer their ISA into a Novia account and continue contributing.
Please note – This is not financial advice, and I am not suggesting you transfer your ISA without going through the full due diligence process. It is an option, should you be interested.
Should I Transfer my Pension as an Expat?
A common question by expats is for those who are moving abroad and want to make the most of their pensions – the question is, should I transfer my pensions offshore and into a single pot? Not a question I can answer in a blog. What I can do is give you some pointers to research.
You will need to know the pensions you hold – if you have lost sight of any, you can find some on the Gov website: Find pension contact details – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Understanding the type of pension you have is key to whether you will want to transfer – there are Defined Contribution pensions and Defined Benefit pensions. Defined Benefits are also known as final salary and are less common in today’s world; most people entering the workforce are more likely to have a Defined Contribution pension.
A DB pension has a lot of regulations around being transferred. To transfer, you will need to get it valued, and speak to a financial advisor to obtain a report and in my experience, that report rarely goes in favour of being transferred. The reports can cost a lot, which then starts to put people off.
A DC pension is easier; if you have transferred a DC pension in the UK it’s much easier in comparison.
I’ve covered some of these in blogs if this topic is of interest:
- Red Flags for UK Pension Transfers
- Defined Benefit (DB) Pensions Explained for Expats
- UK Pension Transfers
Conclusion
The most important point as an expat is to understand where you are now and where you’d like to be. Understand your local tax rules if you are to invest, and then begin researching platforms, products and advisors should you want one.
There are plenty of platforms you can use, make sure you find one with a swift application, understandable fees, investment range and FCA regulated if possible.
For portfolios, you may have an idea of what you want, and an advisor can support. I am biased, but if you want to DIY, then it’s about finding something you are comfortable with. Assess your risk appetite and understand the costs.
Advisors, if you are looking for one, speak to several, see what they suggest and offer to you, compare and ask lots of questions. From a personal point of view, being honest and open about current assets and where you want to be helps to build that plan.
If you do have more questions, please feel free to contact me using my contact page.
Further reading for you:
- Red Flags for UK Pension Transfers
- Thailand Implements Taxes on Foreign Income
- Reducing Your Taxes as a UK Expat
FAQs
In 2026, most UK platforms (including Hargreaves Lansdown, AJ Bell, and Fidelity) will have strict policies regarding non-residents. While you can usually keep existing assets in a SIPP or ISA, you are generally prohibited from making new contributions once you’ve moved abroad. Furthermore, if your platform discovers you are a resident in a “high-risk” jurisdiction (or simply outside the EEA), they may restrict your account to “Reduce Only,” meaning you can sell but not buy. For active investing, it is safer to migrate to an International Platform (like Saxo, Swissquote, or Novia Global) that is specifically licensed to handle globally mobile clients.
From April 6, 2026, UK dividend tax rates are rising (Basic rate to 10.75%; Higher rate to 35.75%). If you hold UK-domiciled stocks or funds outside a tax wrapper, your “disregarded income” protection may be less effective, especially if you have other UK-sourced income like rental property. The “How-To” strategy for 2026 is to shift toward Luxembourg or Ireland-domiciled ETFs held within an offshore custody account. This allows your investments to grow without being subject to the tightening UK dividend tax net.
This is where many expats lose 3-5% of their investment capital before they even buy a stock. Never use a standard “Swift” transfer from a local bank to your investment platform, as the hidden exchange rate markups are predatory. The most efficient method in 2026 is using a multi-currency digital wallet (like Wise or Revolut) to convert your local salary into the “Base Currency” of your platform (usually USD, GBP, or EUR) before sending it. Alternatively, choosing a platform with an integrated multi-currency account (like Saxo Bank) allows you to hold multiple currencies simultaneously, avoiding unnecessary conversions when buying international stocks.
