Taxbytes for Expats

Stephanie Wickham, ExpatTaxes.ie
  • 5.0 (1)
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  • UPDATED TWICE WEEKLY

Are you an expat who is confused by the Irish tax system? Maybe you are planning a move to or from Ireland and want to understand how to navigate the complex tax issues that arise? Taxbytes for Expats is the show that explains in simple terms the dos and don'ts of Irish taxes for expats.

  1. Pets, Schools & the Affordability Rule: Finding your Home in Ireland with Grainne Convery (Part 1)

    6 HR AGO

    Pets, Schools & the Affordability Rule: Finding your Home in Ireland with Grainne Convery (Part 1)

    This episode is Part 1 of Stephanie's conversation with Gráinne Convery. Make sure you subscribe for Part 2 coming in the next episode. Moving to Ireland is exciting, but the practicalities can make or break those first few months and expend all the energy you have. In this episode, I’m joined by Gráinne Convery of Cronin Group to unpack the real-world relocation hurdles we see every week: the rental market crunch, how to be taken seriously by agents, pet and family considerations, and getting school places sorted without losing your sanity. We walk through the things you need to secure a home before you land, like virtual home searches, the 40% affordability rule many applicants trip over, and the unspoken realities landlords apply around pets, kids, and bedroom allocations. On schools, Gráinne explains how we compare curricula, manage waitlists, and steer families toward realistic options—so children settle faster and parents sleep better. The key thing to note here is planning early. If you understand what agents expect, how affordability is assessed, which developments accept pets, and which schools are actually possible, you’ll avoid a lot of unnecessary stress. Main Topics Discussed in this Episode: Ireland’s Rental Reality: The housing shortage, agent gatekeeping, and why starting early dramatically improves outcomes.Virtual Home Search: Viewing by video, negotiating on your behalf, handling paperwork, and key collection before you arrive.The 40% Affordability Rule: How many landlords/agents assess rent vs. net income—with examples that catch expats off guard.Pets, Children & Unspoken Landlord Rules: Practical barriers for families and pet owners, and how to target developments where you’ll be considered.School Places & Curriculum Fit: How Cronin supports school searches, manages expectations, and aligns international curricula with Irish options. Get in touch with Grainne: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grainne-convery-globalmobility/ Email: grainne.convery@croningroup.ie (and mention the podcast when you do!) Website: https://ireland-relocations.com/ ***** If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/services-and-pricing/. Chapters: (00:04) Welcome & What This Series Covers(00:30) Today’s Guest: Gráinne Convery, Cronin Group(00:50) Why Relocation Support Matters(01:49) Gráinne’s Background & Role at Cronin(03:11) Ireland’s Housing Reality: What People Underestimate(04:17) Virtual Home Search: Secure a Place Before You...

    21 min
  2. Getting a Mortgage from Abroad or in Ireland as an Expat with Rob Priestman

    4 NOV

    Getting a Mortgage from Abroad or in Ireland as an Expat with Rob Priestman

    Buying a home in Ireland can be one of the most exciting and daunting parts of an expat move. In this episode, I chat with Rob Priestman, Business Development Manager at EBS, who’s been helping people secure mortgages for over 20 years. Rob’s also an ultra-marathon runner, which might explain his stamina for navigating the twists and turns of Ireland’s mortgage market! We talk through what’s really happening in the market right now and what expats and returning Irish need to know before applying. Rob explains how Central Bank lending rules work in practice, how lenders assess affordability, and what to expect if you’re earning in a foreign currency (including why only 80% of that income is typically taken into account). We also cover practical essentials like getting “mortgage ready,” working with a solicitor or buyer’s agent, and why opening a euro bank account early on can save you trouble later. The key thing to note here is that every case is different, but Rob’s advice will help you plan ahead and approach the process with confidence. His calm, practical insight is a real reassurance in what can be a complex journey. Topics Discussed in this Episode: Changes in the Irish Mortgage Market: Rob outlines how lending practices have evolved since the Celtic Tiger years, with Central Bank rules now enforcing stricter loan-to-income and affordability criteria to ensure borrowers can manage repayments.Getting Mortgage-Ready from Abroad: We discuss the practical steps expats should take before applying—understanding costs, securing mortgage approval in advance, and assembling the right professional support team including a solicitor and buyer’s agent.Foreign Income and Currency Considerations: Rob explains how lenders assess non-euro income (typically taking 80% of its value to allow for currency fluctuations) and why having a euro bank account is essential for repayments.Understanding Affordability and Repayment Capacity: We look at how repayment capacity is tested, including why existing overseas rent or mortgage payments must still be included until you return to Ireland—often reducing how much you can initially borrow.Buying vs. Building in Ireland: Rob shares how the process for self-builds mirrors that of a purchase, with extra focus on documentation and costings, and stresses the importance of starting conversations early to make the process smoother. Get in touch with Rob (and mention the podcast when you do!): Email: rob.priestman@ebs.ie Phone: +353 879 037 867 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-priestman-3767277/ ***** If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: a href="https://expattaxes.ie/services-and-pricing/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    32 min
  3. Residency, Relationships & the Realities of Expat Tax with Peter Ferrigno (Part 2)

    21 OCT

    Residency, Relationships & the Realities of Expat Tax with Peter Ferrigno (Part 2)

    This episode is Part 2 of Stephanie's conversation with Peter Ferrigno. For the full conversation, make sure you listen to Part 1 before you begin this episode. In Part 2 of this conversation, I’m joined again by Peter Ferrigno, a UK expat tax veteran (CTA, FCA, CIPD) whose career spans Big Four leadership, immigration and relocation, and hands-on advisory across Europe. Peter has lived the expat life himself—Poland, the Czech Republic, and now Spain—so he understands the human side of cross-border moves as much as the numbers. We get practical about how residency and citizenship planning intersects with tax. We talk candidly about “Plan B” residencies, why some clients only need clarity rather than action, and where the Ireland–UK rules can be optimised (or tripped over!) if you don’t plan ahead. We also cover Americans relocating to the UK after the abolition of the remittance basis and how the new foreign income & gains regime can be used in the first four years. Peter shares sensible guardrails for digital nomads (including a risk-based approach to day counting), the difference between income tax and VAT sourcing on remote advice, and why long-range planning needs flexibility when life and legislation change. The key thing to note here is: if you’re serious about changing tax residence, you actually have to move - company structures alone won’t save you and Peter can be the right person to lean on if you need support. Main Topics Discussed in this Episode: Residency and Citizenship Planning at Henley & Partners: Peter explains how tax advice integrates into residency and citizenship planning, especially for clients seeking a “Plan B” residency for flexibility or future relocation options.Cross-Border Planning Between Ireland and the UK: We discuss how careful timing and awareness of residency rules can prevent unintended tax exposure when moving between Ireland and the UK, and why long-term planning needs to stay adaptable.U.S. Citizens Moving to the UK Post-Remittance Basis: Peter outlines the implications for Americans relocating to the UK following the abolition of the remittance basis, and how the UK’s new foreign income and gains regime offers short-term opportunities.Digital Nomads and Global Mobility Challenges: We unpack the realities of digital nomadism—how tax treaties and day-count rules apply when you work remotely across borders, and why a risk-based, practical approach is essential.The Human Side of Expat Tax Advice: Peter reflects on his decades in international tax, sharing why personal connection, empathy, and calm professionalism matter just as much as technical expertise when helping clients navigate major life changes. Get in touch with Peter Ferrigno: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterferrigno1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peter.ferrigno/ Chapters: (00:00) Welcome & Introduction(00:33) How Tax Fits into Residency and Citizenship Planning(01:45) When Clients Need Clarity, Not Action(03:18) Navigating Residency Rules Between Ireland and the UK(05:16) Long-Term Tax Planning and Timing Moves(06:00) The Myth of “Tax-Free” Moves and Corporate Structures(07:00) Plan B Residencies and Citizenship for Families(09:04) U.S. Citizens Moving to the UK and the End of the Remittance Basis(12:07) Competing Tax Regimes and Attracting High-Net-Worth Individuals(12:52) The Rise of Digital Nomads and Remote Working Challenges(17:34) Practical...

    27 min
  4. Tax, Lifestyle, and Life Choices: Tax Advice from a Skilled Expat with Peter Ferrigno (Part 1)

    7 OCT

    Tax, Lifestyle, and Life Choices: Tax Advice from a Skilled Expat with Peter Ferrigno (Part 1)

    This episode is Part 1 of Stephanie's conversation with Peter Ferrigno. Make sure you're subscribed to get Part 2. In this episode, I’m joined by Peter Ferrigno, an expat tax veteran (CTA, FCA, CIPD) whose career spans Big Four leadership, immigration and relocation, and hands-on advisory across Europe. Peter has lived the expat life himself—Poland, the Czech Republic, and now Spain—so he understands the human side of cross-border moves as much as the numbers. We unpack what’s driving today’s migration out of the UK (non-dom changes, rising effective rates, inheritance tax exposure), how to compare destination countries in a structured, practical way, and why tax is only one part of the decision. The key thing to note here is that assets, income sources, and lifestyle priorities change the answer—property portfolios, flat-tax regimes (e.g., Italy/Greece), UAE vs. EU trade-offs, temporary non-residence rules on business exits, and the impact of abolished schemes like Portugal’s NHR all feature. We also talk through Peter’s simple matrix for shortlisting countries, the importance of immigration pathways post-Brexit, and the real-world factors that make or break a move—kids’ schools, spouse integration, social networks. If you’re weighing a relocation to or from Ireland or the UK, this conversation will help you frame the right questions before you act. Main Topics discussed in this Episode: Peter’s Global Career and Perspective: Peter shares his journey across major firms and countries, shaping his people-focused approach to expat tax and mobility.The UK Exodus and Non-Dom Changes: We unpack why more high-net-worth individuals are leaving the UK and how Ireland and Europe compare.Tax Planning vs. Lifestyle Reality: Relocation isn’t just about tax—family, lifestyle, and emotional fit often decide success abroad.Choosing the Right Destination Country: Peter explains his method for comparing countries based on assets, income, lifestyle, and tax outcomes.Immigration Pathways and Investment Residency: We discuss how residence-by-investment schemes support post-Brexit mobility and tax planning. Get in touch with Peter Ferrigno: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterferrigno1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peter.ferrigno/ Chapters: (00:00) Welcome and Introduction(00:31) Meet Peter Ferrigno of Global Expatriate Tax Services(01:44) How Peter’s Career in Global Tax Began(04:40) Living the Expat Life – Lessons from Abroad(06:01) Why More High-Net-Worth Individuals Are Leaving the UK(09:22) The Real Impact of UK Non-Dom Changes(10:12) How to Choose Where to Move – Tax Isn’t Everything(12:52) The Emotional and Family Side of Relocating(15:10) Selling a Business and Temporary Non-Residence Rules(17:02) Comparing Tax Systems and Narrowing the Shortlist(19:05) Immigration Rules and Post-Brexit Challenges(20:33) Investment Residency and Final Takeaways ***** If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/2gZheYEAcwiDxO5URn0bPW" rel="noopener...

    22 min
  5. Irish Taxation, Starting a Business and the Story behind Expat Taxes (Business Matters with Karl Fitzpatrick)

    16 SEPT

    Irish Taxation, Starting a Business and the Story behind Expat Taxes (Business Matters with Karl Fitzpatrick)

    We have a special feature for you this week, as Stephanie Wickham was interviewed earlier this year on South East Radio on the Business Matters Radio show with Karl Fitzpatrick. Stephanie Wickham from Expat Taxes joins Karl Fitzpatrick to discuss the intricacies of taxation for expats that are returning to Ireland, the most common international territories which their clients have been based in and its web-based application for simplifying the tax remittance process. Listen to Business Matters with Karl Fitzpatrick: Website: https://www.southeastradio.ie/south-east-radios-business-matters-with-karl-fitzpatrick/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4hGsJ9KB3YVa0M0iXMWyEc Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/business-matters-with-karl-fitzpatrick/id1540616577 ***** If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/services-and-pricing/. Mentioned in this episode: Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies Direct This episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland. Use the link below and quote "Expat Taxes" when registering with Currencies Direct to receive a €50 One4All or Amazon voucher when you transfer €5000 or more in your first six months with Currencies Direct. Click here for Currencies Direct Special Offer

    16 min
  6. U.S. Exit Taxes and why you should Renounce Citizenship in 2025 with Alexander Marino (Part 2)

    2 SEPT

    U.S. Exit Taxes and why you should Renounce Citizenship in 2025 with Alexander Marino (Part 2)

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

    17 min
  7. Renouncing U.S. Citizenship as an Expat the Right Way with Alexander Marino (Part 1)

    19 AUG

    Renouncing U.S. Citizenship as an Expat the Right Way with Alexander Marino (Part 1)

    If you’re a US citizen or green card holder living abroad (particularly here in Ireland) you’ve probably wondered at some point if keeping that US status is worth the hassle. In this episode, I’m joined by Alexander Marino, Director of US Tax Law at Moodys Tax and one of the world’s leading experts on US expatriation. His team works with clients across six continents to navigate the legal and tax complexities of renouncing US citizenship or terminating long-term green card status. We dig into why more expats are choosing to renounce, what really drives the decision (it’s not just politics!) and how US tax obligations can quietly snowball into a long-term financial and emotional burden. Alex walks us through the real risks and makes the case for getting clear, strategic advice if you’re considering this path. This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation with Alexander Marino. Subscribe to make sure you get Part 2 next time. Main Topics discussed in this Episode: Why Expats Are Renouncing US Citizenship: Alex shares the key reasons people take this step, from sky-high compliance costs to the frustration of being taxed by two countries on the same income.The Emotional and Financial Decision-Making Process: This comes up a lot with clients: the emotional attachment to US citizenship can cloud what’s otherwise a straightforward financial decision.The Hidden Tax Pitfalls for US Expats Abroad: Alex outlines the tax landmines US citizens often don’t see coming when they live overseas, especially in high-tax jurisdictions like Ireland.What It Really Means to Renounce—And Do It Right: Alex explains that renouncing properly isn’t just handing over a passport. Timelines, Triggers, and Taking Action: We cover when to start the process, what triggers might make it urgent (like selling a property), and why wait times at embassies can be longer than you think. Get in touch with Alex : Email: amarino@moodystax.com Website: https://moodysprivateclient.com/team/marino-alexander/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-marino-45a76b26/ ***** If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/services-and-pricing/. Mentioned in this episode: Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted! Special Offer from our Trusted Partner, Currencies Direct This episode is brought to you by Currencies Direct, our trusted currency exchange partner when transferring currency to or from Ireland. Use the link below and quote "Expat Taxes" when registering with...

    23 min
  8. UK Tax Changes: Non-Domicile Remittance, FIG and Remote Work with Dan Howse (Part 2)

    5 AUG

    UK Tax Changes: Non-Domicile Remittance, FIG and Remote Work with Dan Howse (Part 2)

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

    23 min
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About

Are you an expat who is confused by the Irish tax system? Maybe you are planning a move to or from Ireland and want to understand how to navigate the complex tax issues that arise? Taxbytes for Expats is the show that explains in simple terms the dos and don'ts of Irish taxes for expats.

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  • Creator
    Stephanie Wickham, ExpatTaxes.ie
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    66
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Stephanie Wickham, ExpatTaxes.ie
  • Show Website
    Taxbytes for Expats

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