Mastering the Non-Resident Status: Keep Non-Resident Status During Family & Property Visits
Living abroad and maintaining non-resident status can be a delicate balance, especially when you have family or property ties back home. This article aims to guide you through the complexities of maintaining non-residency while visiting family and managing property visits. With careful planning and understanding of the rules, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of non-resident status while staying connected to your roots.
Know Your Country's Residency Rules
The first step to mastering non-resident status is understanding your country's specific residency rules. Each country has its own criteria to determine tax residency, which may include factors such as days spent in the country, income earned, or property ownership. Familiarise yourself with these rules and consult a tax professional if necessary to ensure compliance.
Find out more about the statutory residency test applied around the world.
Plan Your Visits Wisely
When visiting family or checking on property, it's crucial to plan your visits strategically to avoid triggering residency. Keep track of the number of days you spend in your home country and ensure you stay below the threshold for tax residency. If possible, try to spread out your visits throughout the year to avoid suspicion of continuous presence.
Keep Detailed Records
Maintaining accurate records of your travels is essential to prove your non-residency status. Keep track of all your flights, accommodation bookings, and other travel-related documents to provide evidence of your time spent abroad. These records will be invaluable if you ever need to defend your non-resident status to tax authorities.
Manage Property Remotely or Hire a Property Manager
To minimize the need for frequent property visits, consider managing your property remotely or hiring a professional property manager. Technology has made it easier than ever to monitor and manage properties from afar through online platforms and communication tools. A local property manager can also take care of day-to-day tasks, maintenance, and tenant issues on your behalf, reducing the need for your physical presence.
Maintain Strong Ties to Your Host Country
Establishing strong ties to your host country can help solidify your non-resident status. Open a bank account, obtain a local driver's license, and register with local authorities to demonstrate your commitment to your new residence. In addition, consider joining local clubs or organizations to build connections and further integrate into your host country's community.
Consult with Tax Professionals
Navigating the complexities of non-resident status can be challenging, and consulting with tax professionals experienced in expatriate and non-resident tax issues can be invaluable. They can provide guidance on tax planning, compliance, and potential pitfalls to avoid when maintaining non-residency.
Mastering non-resident status while visiting family and managing property is achievable with careful planning and adherence to your home country's residency rules. By understanding the regulations, managing property remotely, and maintaining strong ties to your host country, you can enjoy the benefits of non-residency while staying connected to your family and property back home.