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International SIPP
A flexible pension solution built for life abroad. Manage, grow, and access your retirement worldwide.
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What Is an International SIPP?
If you’re living overseas and seeking transparent, offshore pensions advice, you’ve landed in the right place. This guide explains why an International SIPP (Self-Invested Personal Pension) might be your ideal vehicle to control, grow, and access pension wealth globally—and tax-efficiently.
Why Retirement Planning Must Keep Up with Longevity
The World Health Organization projects that by 2050, there will be more than three times as many people aged 80+ as in 2020. With longer life expectancy, ensuring your finances can sustain decades of retirement becomes essential. A flexible, well-managed International SIPP helps expats control contributions, investments, and drawdown according to your personal goals.
Understanding the Self‑Invested Personal Pension (SIPP)
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Greater flexibility and control than traditional workplace pensions
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Investment in a wide range of assets (stocks, commercial property, P2P lending, commodities, OEICs, and more)
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Tax efficiency—investments grow tax-free and contributions receive UK tax relief
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Flexible contribution schedules
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Fully managed or DIY investment options
What Sets an International SIPP Apart?
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Consolidate multiple UK pensions into one global pot
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Access multi-currency holdings (GBP, USD, EUR) to mitigate currency risk
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Full investment flexibility across global markets
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Access and manage your pension from anywhere
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Drawdown including 25% tax-free lump sum with flexi-access drawdown
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Beneficiaries can receive 100% of your SIPP tax-free if you die before age 75 (taxed at marginal rate after 75)
What You Can Transfer into an International SIPP
Almost any UK pension can be transferred:
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UK SIPPs and personal pensions
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Occupational pensions
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QROPS schemes
Your previous pension provider and scheme type may affect transferability and exit fees.
Is an International SIPP Right for Expats?
SIPPs may suit you if:
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You’re comfortable with some investment risk for long-term returns
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You have knowledge of financial markets or a trusted adviser to manage investments
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You value flexibility, control, and global access
If you’re risk-averse or prefer guarantees (e.g. from a DB pension), QROPS or remaining in a defined benefit plan might be more appropriate.
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International SIPP FAQs
Can I still contribute from overseas?
Non-residents can use an allowance (£3,600 gross annually) for up to five tax years after leaving the UK. Consult an adviser for personal eligibility.
What tax relief am I eligible for?
What happens to tax when I withdraw abroad?
Withdrawals may be taxed in your country of residence (often as regular income). Apply for Nil Tax (NT) status to avoid UK PAYE withholdings.
Are there legacy changes to Inheritance Tax?
From April 2027, SIPPs will be included in the UK IHT net in some circumstances. Estate planning is essential.
Take the Next Step
An International SIPP provides expats with a low-cost, flexible solution for managing UK pension wealth across borders. But to ensure it’s right for your retirement goals, an assessment of fees, tax residency, investment habits, and legacy planning is vital. Let our UK‑regulated, expat‑specialist advisers evaluate your options and help you move forward confidently.
Contact us for a free consultation and personalized pension transfer strategy.
