Taxbytes for Expats

Thinking of moving to Ireland from the U.S.? You’re not alone, and this episode will help make the whole process a little less daunting.

This week I’m joined by Jeremy Strozer - consultant at Expatsi.com and an American expat who moved to Ireland with his family in 2020. Jeremy had to learn a lot of what he knows now the hard way, but now helps other U.S. expats to get perspective on their move and take a practical approach to what can be a very emotional and turbulent time.

In Part One of our conversation, we talk through how to approach your Visa, how to get a sense of where in Ireland might suit your lifestyle, what surprised Jeremy about buying a house here, and why the Irish Health Insurance system requires a bit of patience and tact to navigate.

Jeremy shares all the practical guidance he can offer as someone who’s made the move with his family, and he’ll be back to talk about even more in Part 2.

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Understanding Visa Options: Jeremy outlines the different visa pathways available depending on your life stage and how to approach the decision based on your personal circumstances.
2. Choosing Where to Live in Ireland: How to explore different counties before committing, and why his family ended up settling in County Clare.
3. The Realities of Buying a House in Ireland: Jeremy shares his experience with the Irish property market, the quirks of bidding through auctioneers, and how the pace and culture around home-buying differs from the U.S.
4. Navigating the Irish Health Insurance System: They talk through how health coverage works in Ireland, the importance of planning ahead, and why managing expectations is key when accessing care as an expat.
5. Adjusting to Life in a New Country: Jeremy reflects on the emotional highs and lows of relocation and how to find balance and stability during the transition.

Contact Jeremy:

As an exclusive deal for Taxbytes For Expats listeners, you can book a Consultation Call with Jeremy for 20% off. Click the following link to book your consultation today: https://calendly.com/strozerj/ireland-consultation-clone.

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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 [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

This is Part 2 of Stephanie's conversation with Maura Ginty - make sure to listen to Part 1 if you missed it!

There are tons of tax benefits for startup founders in Ireland when they approach building their business in the right way, especially if you’re investing!

This week we’re back for Part 2 of my conversation with Maura Ginty of Gintax, a tax specialist with years of experience advising startups, entrepreneurs, and growing businesses.

In this episode, we discuss the key tax reliefs and strategies that startup founders, investors, and business owners need to know, how to structure investments through a company and the tax implications that come with it, employee share schemes, and Maura shares her insights on where the Irish tax system could improve to better support founders and startups.

Main Topics Discussed in this Episode:

1. R&D Tax Credit – how it works and why documentation is key
2. EIIS tax relief – benefits, risks, and why companies need to be cautious
3. Investing through a company – tax pitfalls to avoid
4. Employee share schemes – comparing options and understanding tax implications
5. Where the Irish tax system could improve for startups and founders

Contact Maura Ginty

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.gintax.ie

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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 [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

This is Part 1 of Stephanie's conversation with Maura Ginty - make sure you subscribe to be notified about Part 2.

Are you an Expat or Repat thinking of starting a business in Ireland? Planning and structuring correctly at the start is important to make sure you’re compliant and earning the most that you can from your company.

My guest this week, Maura Ginty of Gintax, can help as a tax specialist with years of experience advising startups, entrepreneurs, and growing businesses. Maura is an expert in the tax considerations for anyone setting up in Ireland, from choosing between sole trader or limited company status, to understanding tax-efficient structures for scaling and eventual exit.

In this episode, we talk about the common mistakes new founders make, when a holding company makes sense (and when it doesn’t), why getting tax advice early on is crucial for long-term success, and so much more!

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Sole Trader vs. Limited Company – Which is Right for You?
2. When a Holding Company Structure Makes Sense (and When It Doesn’t)
3. How Tax Works for Consultants, Startups & Scaling Businesses
4. Key Tax Considerations for Founders Planning an Exit
5. Why Getting Specialist Tax Advice Early is Essential

Contact Maura Ginty

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.gintax.ie

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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 [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

Thinking about making the move to Italy? Whether you’re drawn to the sunshine, the culture, or the tax incentives, understanding your tax position before you relocate is crucial.

In this episode of Taxbytes for Expats, I’m joined by Italian tax specialist Mario Tenore, who works extensively with high-net-worth individuals, expats, and international clients navigating the complexities of Italy’s tax system.

Mario breaks down the key tax residency rules in Italy, the importance of pre-relocation tax planning and the flat tax regime, which can be a game-changer for those with foreign income. He also explains the pensioner tax regime, what qualifies as pension income, and the practical steps expats should take to make their move to Italy as smooth as possible.

This is a great one to listen to if you're thinking about retiring or moving to Italy!

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Understanding Italian Tax Residency – The four key tests for tax residency and why even short stays can have tax implications.
2. The Flat Tax Regime – How Italy’s €200,000 flat tax works and who benefits most from it.
3. Pensioner Tax Incentives – The 7% tax regime for retirees and the key requirements to qualify.
4. Pre-Relocation Tax Planning – Why speaking to an advisor before moving to Italy can save you from major tax headaches.
5. Buying Property in Italy – Practical considerations for expats looking to purchase real estate.

Contact Mario Tenore: [email protected]

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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 [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

This is Part 2 of Stephanie's conversation with Lisa Quinn O'Flaherty. If you haven’t yet, check out Part 1 in the Taxbytes For Expats feed.

Contrary to popular belief, there is more to wills and beneficiaries than just handing the house and belongings to your children. And even from a tax perspective, it’s really important to keep your affairs in order.

Lisa Quinn O’Flaherty of Fitzsimons & Redmond LLP is an expert in all things legal and in Part 2 of our conversation, we discuss the complexities of cross-border probate, why having a separate will for your Irish assets is essential, and how the probate process really works (it’s not like what you see on TV shows!). We also chat about some of the common pitfalls that can cause unnecessary stress for beneficiaries like tax issues, missing paperwork, and DIY legal documents gone wrong.

If you’ve moved to or from Ireland, own property here, and just want to make sure your affairs are in order, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you navigate the legal side of estate planning with confidence.

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. Cross-border probate: How separate wills can streamline estate administration across jurisdictions.
2. The Irish probate process: What happens after a person passes away, and why some estates can take over a year to settle.
3. Common pitfalls: From unfiled tax obligations to outdated wills—how to avoid delays and headaches for your loved ones.
4. Executor responsibilities: What it really means to be named in a will and the challenges that come with it.
5. The importance of professional advice: Why working with a solicitor (instead of DIYing it) can save your beneficiaries years of legal and financial stress.

A special Bonus from Lisa:

If you'd like a free consultation with Lisa Quinn O'Flaherty about how she can help you with your legal requirements, contact her via [email protected] or head to https://fitzsimonsredmond.ie/, and mention Taxbytes when you do!

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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 [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

This is Part 1 of Stephanie's conversation with Lisa Quinn O'Flaherty - make sure you subscribe to be notified about Part 2!

The legal side of being an expat or repat is often more complicated than originally anticipated. (alongside the tax side, of course!)

In this episode, I sat down with Lisa Quinn O’Flaherty of Fitzsimons & Redmond LLP to talk about some of the most important legal considerations when buying property in Ireland, succession planning, and the complexities of wills and probate.

Lisa brings her wealth of experience as a solicitor to answer questions relating to some of the most common scenarios you might face, from navigating Ireland’s unique home-buying process to the importance of ensuring your will aligns with your wishes—especially if you own assets across multiple jurisdictions.

Whether you’re planning your first property purchase in Ireland or thinking about how to structure your estate for your family's future, this episode is packed with practical advice.

Main Topics discussed in this Episode:

1. The Unique Irish Property Buying Process: Buying a home in Ireland can be a lengthy and sometimes unpredictable journey. From understanding the role of the solicitor to the importance of surveys and securing mortgage funds, being prepared is key to a smoother process.
2. The Role of Wills in Irish Asset Ownership: If you own property in Ireland, having an Irish will is essential to ensure your wishes are clearly laid out and legally enforceable under Irish law.
3. Cross-Border Estate Planning: For expats with assets in multiple jurisdictions, aligning wills across countries is crucial to avoid conflicts, unintended consequences, or tax inefficiencies.
4. The Importance of Proactive Planning: Starting the process early—whether it’s securing life assurance, understanding tax implications, or engaging a professional—is the best way to avoid delays and complications.
5. Tax and Legal Overlap: Effective estate planning often requires collaboration between solicitors and tax professionals, particularly when dealing with assets in Ireland and abroad. Understanding the tax treaties and laws that apply to your situation can help mitigate unexpected liabilities.

A special Bonus from Lisa:

If you'd like a free consultation with Lisa Quinn O'Flaherty about how she can help you with your legal requirements, contact her via [email protected] or head to https://fitzsimonsredmond.ie/, and mention Taxbytes when you do!

*****

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 [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

This is Part 2 of a conversation with John Healy of Healys Insurances - if you haven't listened to Part 1 yet, we'd highly recommend it before jumping into this episode!

There's more to car insurance than claiming on accidents - it's about knowing when to use, which insurance to get and what you need to bring with you as an expat to save money on your premiums.

Talking more about Car Insurance in Ireland, I’m joined by John Healy of Healy’s Insurances, an expert with over 25 years of experience in insuring cars, homes and more. Healy’s Insurances is well-known in expat circles for helping people navigate the quirks of the Irish insurance market (though most notably for Mary Doyle, or “Mary of Healy’s!”).

In this Part 2, we dig deeper into the practicalities of insuring your vehicle in Ireland, including tips to avoid common pitfalls and how to ensure a smooth process when transitioning from foreign to Irish policies. John shares his wealth of experience, including why your no-claims bonus is invaluable, how car registration impacts your premiums, and what you need to know about imported cars.

We also bust some insurance myths, cover the pros and cons of bundling policies, and discuss what to do if you’re caught in the grey zone with your license or insurance timeline. Whether you’re planning your move or are already in Ireland scratching your head over insurance, this episode is packed with advice to help you make a plan that saves you money and gets into your car as soon as possible.

1. No-Claims Bonus is Key: Your no-claims bonus document from abroad is a must-have. Make sure it’s valid, canceled where necessary, and ready before you arrive in Ireland.
2. Car Registration Matters: Your car's reg impacts your insurance quote significantly, from its history (like past accidents) to its mileage. Check the car's insurance eligibility before buying.
3. License Logistics: Foreign licenses can work temporarily, but plan early to convert to an Irish license—especially if you’re from a country without a straightforward exchange process.
4. Imported Cars = Higher Costs: Be cautious when bringing in cars from outside Ireland, as niche models or past damages could hike up premiums or even make them uninsurable.
5. Claiming on Insurance: For minor damages, weigh the cost of paying out-of-pocket against claiming—especially if you’re a younger driver or lack bonus protection.

Contact Healys for Insurance today:

Email: [email protected]

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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 [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

It’s hard enough to get yourself organised to fly back to Ireland, but you need to start thinking about buying a car almost before anything else! The insurance, licensing, and timing it just right… there’s so much to think about!

Over the next two episodes, I’m joined by John Healy of Healy’s Insurances, an expert with over 25 years of experience in insuring cars, homes and more. Healy’s Insurances is well-known in expat circles for helping people navigate the quirks of the Irish insurance market (though most notably for Mary Doyle, or “Mary of Healy’s!”).

In this Part 1 episode, we chat about everything from the importance of your no-claims bonus, how to handle foreign licenses, and what you need to know about timelines for securing car insurance when you move to Ireland. It’s the best starting point for anyone who hasn’t bought or insured a car in Ireland, and you’ll have even more to look forward to in the next episode!

1. Your No-Claims Bonus is Key: This one-page document detailing your claims-free driving history is essential for securing competitive insurance rates in Ireland. Start organizing this early, as the policy must be canceled in your home country before the bonus is issued.
2. You Can Drive Temporarily on a Foreign License: Expats can use a foreign license for up to 12 months, but you'll need to exchange or replace it with an Irish license if you’re staying longer. The process varies based on your country of origin—U.S. license holders, for instance, face additional steps.
3. Budget for Licensing and Driving Lessons: If you're coming from the U.S., you'll need to pass a theory test and complete six driving lessons before taking the Irish driving test. Lessons can cost €40–€70 per session, depending on your location.
4. Timelines Matter: Insurance renewals can become tricky if you haven’t secured your Irish license within the first 12 months. Be proactive—schedule your licensing appointments as soon as possible to avoid delays.
5. A Tailored Approach to Insurance: Irish insurers often specialize in certain customer profiles. Expats with foreign licenses may find fewer insurers willing to quote, but brokers like Healy’s can help navigate these nuances and secure the best deal.

Contact Healys for Insurance today:

Email: [email protected]

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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 [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

On the 16th January 2025, Stephanie Wickham will be running a live webinar on the tax essentials for expats moving to Ireland.

We're used to hearing Steph talk about all aspects of expat life on the podcast, but this live session will be all about tax residency, tax domicile, taxing your investments, the Double Tax Treaty, and more!

Whether you're a U.S. Citizen who wants a change, an Irish Citizen returning after time abroad, thinking about retirement to Ireland, even if you're already here in Ireland - this session is a great way to learn the essentials you need to start getting your taxes in order.

This brilliant webinar costs €60 and is happening at 5pm GMT on the 16th of January 2025, so there's still plenty of time! Spots are limited, so sign up via the link below and get your taxes sorted!

Sign up for the Webinar (5pm Jan 16 2025)

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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 [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Hi everyone! The complications of Ireland/U.S. migration isn't lost on any professional that has a stake in making the move work. Knowing how to treat both countries from a financial perspective is difficult - especially for those of us making the move!

In Part 2 of my conversation with Sean Kearney of Amvoy Wealth, we dig even deeper into the complexities of financial planning for Irish expats in the U.S. and those with cross-border lives. Sean shares some sharp insights on managing investments, avoiding the pitfalls of overly complex tax schemes, and his core philosophy: living life first and aligning financial plans around it.

We also get into the nitty-gritty of ensuring tax compliance and explore the underestimated value of planning for a possible return to Ireland. Sean's experience and understanding of U.S.-Irish financial management shines through, and his advice is a must-hear for anyone navigating finances in both places.

This episode is a reminder that financial planning is not about cutting corners to save every last cent in tax, but rather about creating a meaningful roadmap that supports the life you want. If you're an expat or have assets on both sides of the Atlantic, Sean's practical tips can make the complexities of cross-border financial life much easier to manage.

Topics mentioned in this episode:

1. Balance Life Goals with Financial Plans: Sean advocates planning for the life you want rather than obsessing over tax efficiency alone. Prioritize lifestyle needs, then find the best way to align your finances.
2. Understand Tax Compliance and Reporting Requirements: For U.S.-connected individuals, understanding reporting requirements in both countries is critical, especially as financial data-sharing between the U.S. and Ireland grows.
3. Consider the Impact of Currency and Tax Rebasing: Before moving back to Ireland, rebasing investments in the U.S. can save significant tax costs due to currency fluctuations and different tax structures.
4. Plan Early if Considering a Move Back to Ireland: For those hoping to return to Ireland, early planning is crucial, as it can mean the difference between a smooth, tax-efficient transition and an unexpected financial hit.
5. Project Management in Financial Planning: Cross-border financial planning often requires a team approach, incorporating tax, estate planning, and investment advice to ensure every angle is covered.

Contact Sean:

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.amvoywealth.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-kearney-cfp%C2%AE-870763199/

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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 [email protected] or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/book-a-consult/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=CaptivateFM&utm_campaign=episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!