BAHAMAS Language - English Currency - Bahamian Dollar Status - Independent Commonwealth State Population - 305,655	INCOME TAX	SOCIAL TAXES	CAPITAL GAINS TAX	PROPERTY TAX
	N/A	N/A	N/A	Levied annually on market value of real estate: Owner-occupied: 1% for value between BSD100,000 and BSD500,000; 1.5% over that. Unimproved: BSD30 if value is less than BSD3,000; 1% for value between BSD3,000 and BSD100,000; 1.5% over that. Other: 1% if value is up to BSD500,000 and 2% over that.
	STAMP DUTY	OTHER TAXES	TAX RESIDENCE QUALIFICATION	BASIS OF RESIDENT TAXATION
	From 2% to 8%	Payroll taxes (employer); Business Licence fees	N/A	National Insurance and events based taxation
	LEGAL BASIS OF RESIDENCE	COST OF RESIDENCE DOCUMENT	WORK PERMIT REQUIRED?	WORK PERMIT AUTHORITY
	Home owners and major international investors	Annual Residence: $1,000, Permanent Residence: $5,000	Yes	Bahamas Investment Authority

Bahamas

From a banking and investing point of view, the Bahamas are a well-respected jurisdiction; the banking environment is stable, the secrecy laws stringent, and the investment environment sophisticated. Banking secrecy may however be under threat from new legislation, as a result of international pressure.

The main areas of expertise in the islands are:

• Trust formation and management
  
• Mutual fund management
  
• Banking. The Bahamas is one of the world's top ten banking centres, and there are more than 300 banks (representing over 30 countries). The banking industry is stringently regulated by the Central Bank of the Bahamas.

Exchange controls apply only to the Bahamian dollar, and to resident individuals and companies, and there is no income tax, capital gains tax, purchase or sales tax, VAT or capital transfer tax. As a result, length or frequency of residence in the Bahamas does not affect tax liability. Taxation consists of social insurance contributions, Business License fees, stamp duty on property transactions, annual property tax, and some quite high customs duties.

Although foreign investment in local real estate or enterprise is positively encouraged in the Bahamas, obtaining long-term residence and/or employment on the islands is somewhat more difficult, although not impossible. One way of securing residence is to obtain a Home Owners Residence Card, which must be renewed annually, and acts as both visa and residence permit for the duration. (Strangely, the applications of immigrants in possession of, or looking to buy, local property valued at $500,000 or more receive accelerated consideration!)

Anyone seeking to obtain annual residence privileges should expect to pay around $1,000 per year (with another $20 payable per dependent), while the head of a household seeking permanent residence will pay approximately $5,000.

A non-Bahamian looking to work on the islands must obtain a work permit (each one being valid for that specific person and position), but this is far from easy. In the case of senior executives, or those possessing special skills not available in the Bahamas, the process is accelerated; other foreign nationals need to be assessed by the Immigration Board (to ascertain their usefulness to the Bahamian community and economy), and their prospective employer must obtain a certificate from the Labour Exchange to the effect that the job was advertised and interviewed for locally, and there was no equally qualified Bahamian available to fill the position. Only then will the issuance of a work permit be considered.

The lifestyle offered by the Bahamas for the resident/retired expat is an enviable one, however, with the tropical maritime climate making pursuits such as sailing, swimming, snorkelling and golf popular and enjoyable. The official language of the islands is English, and there are a number of English language newspapers available, although Creole is also widely spoken. The population of the Bahamas is predominantly Christian.

Finally, although the lack of income tax and tax on investment, coupled with the burgeoning reputation of the islands (in particular Nassau) make it an attractive destination for possible future residence or retirement, do bear in mind the import duties (which are very high), and can sometimes be forgotten when making this kind of decision. Although you will not be taxed on income or investment gains, you will not be living 'tax-free', by any standards, so this jurisdiction is perhaps more suitable for those expatriates with a substantial net worth.

For a more detailed treatment of the tax and legal regimes in this and 35 other offshore jurisdictions, please visit the Lowtax Jurisdictions Guide.

CAYMAN ISLANDS Language - English Currency - Cayman Islands Dollar Status - UK dependent territory Population - 46,600	INCOME TAX	SOCIAL TAXES	CAPITAL GAINS TAX	PROPERTY TAX
	N/A	N/A	N/A	Real estate transfers are charged stamp duty at between 4% and 7.5%.
	STAMP DUTY	OTHER TAXES	TAX RESIDENCE QUALIFICATION	BASIS OF RESIDENT TAXATION
	Up to 1% on legal documents dealing with valuable assets or transactions	Import duties	N/A	Stamp duty and import tax
	LEGAL BASIS OF RESIDENCE	COST OF RESIDENCE DOCUMENT	WORK PERMIT REQUIRED?	WORK PERMIT AUTHORITY
	Residence Permit (granted on quota basis)	N/A	Yes : cost varies widely	Chief Immigration Officer

Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands are one of the premier offshore financial centres, but have something of a reputation as a stereotypical 'tax haven' in Europe, although they have been attempting to guard against money laundering practices. It has to be said, however, that in the absence of proven wrongdoing, the emphasis is still firmly on preserving confidentiality. (Although this was dealt a blow by the judgement awarded in 2002 to the US Internal revenue Service in Miami, allowing them access to American Express and MasterCard records covering US citizens with offshore assets in the Caymans.) As with some other Caribbean jurisdictions, recent international pressure is leading to new legislation in this area.

Although the jurisdiction is well suited to the majority of offshore enterprises, particular specialities are banking, captive insurance, trust formation and management. Mutual funds are also a growing sector since the establishment of the Cayman Islands Stock Exchange in 1997. There are nearly 87,230 active corporations registered on the island (2007), and nearly 300 banks, which are regulated by the independent Cayman Monetary Authority. Banking assets exceed USD1.7 trillion. The regulatory regime is in accordance with the Basle Committee regulations.

There are no direct taxes levied in the Cayman Islands, with government revenue coming from customs duties, stamp duty and registration fees levied on corporations. There are no exchange controls, and the islands are exceptionally politically stable.

Caymanian residency has traditionally been granted on a quota basis to citizens from countries including the UK and British dependencies, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and the US. An expat applying for permanent residence (without permission to work) will have had to prove that they have sufficient financial resources to support themselves and their families, and to invest at least USD180,000 in local enterprise or real estate. Permits have initially been valid for six months, but at any point after that, the expatriate could apply to have the status changed to permanent resident. A deposit must also be provided against possible future repatriation costs, and the amount varies depending on country of origin.

After two years of permanent residence, a foreign national wanting to seek employment can usually apply for a work permit. These are usually limited to a specified area of employment, and are generally issued for 2-3 years for senior positions. Work permit charges are payable, (which vary widely according to the position applied for, and, to some extent, the island on which the employment is located) and the employer must put up the possible repatriation deposit.

In January 2007, amendments revising the Cayman Islands Immigration Law (2006 Revision) came into force. The Law contains a number of changes to the Immigration Law, 2003, including work-permit term limits, permanent residency, a new category of 'key employees' and the ability of the Chief Immigration Officer to grant Caymanian Status to certain categories of applicants. The new law sought to clarify the work permit rules after years of frequent change to the rules, resulting in confusion for employers and backlogs in the processing of work permit applications.

The concept of tax residence is not applicable in the Cayman Islands due to the lack of direct taxation.

English and Spanish are widely spoken on the islands, and there are a few English language newspapers available. The climate is warm and tropical, and pastimes such as scuba diving (which is said to have originated in the Cayman Islands), motor sports, and golf are widely enjoyed. The islands are predominantly Presbyterian, although there are also Anglican communities, and Jehovah's Witnesses.

The cost of living is relatively high (due to the fact that the majority of goods are imported), but the absence of direct taxation should offset at least some of this. The overall standard of living is high, and whether as a base for investment during your working life, a temporary residence, or a possible future retirement destination, the Cayman Islands are an attractive option.

For a more detailed treatment of the tax and legal regimes in this and 40 other offshore jurisdictions, please visit the Lowtax Jurisdictions Guide.

CYPRUS Language - Greek and English; Turkish in the north Currency - Euro (Turkish Lira in North) Status - Independent Sovereign Republic (Turkish area refers to itself as Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) Population - 788,457	INCOME TAX	SOCIAL TAXES	CAPITAL GAINS TAX	PROPERTY TAX
	Nil to EUR19,500; then 20% to EUR28,000; 25% to EUR36,000; 30% after that; foreign pension income is taxed at 5%.	N/A	20% capital gains tax (except on sale of real estate by non-resident)	From 2.5-4% on property over EUR160,000 but based on 1980 values
	STAMP DUTY	OTHER TAXES	TAX RESIDENCE QUALIFICATION	BASIS OF RESIDENT TAXATION
	N/A	N/A	Present for more than 183 days	World-wide income
	LEGAL BASIS OF RESIDENCE	COST OF RESIDENCE DOCUMENT	WORK PERMIT REQUIRED?	WORK PERMIT AUTHORITY
	Residence Permit; Cyprus is now a member state of the EU	N/A	Yes for non EU or EEA residents: TRE permit	Immigration Department and Central Bank

Cyprus

Cyprus is well known for its financial sector, with the primary focus and expertise being in the formation and management of holding, investment, and trading companies. These are a draw for foreign investors in part because of the many double taxation treaties established between Cyprus and other high tax countries, and in part because of the 10% corporate tax regime; the lowest in the EU. There is also a thriving shipping sector.

For pensioners, foreign investment income is charged at 5% on amounts over approx. EUR3,000 pa provided that the individual is neither resident nor Cypriot, nor has economic activity on the island. Although some countries offer more attractive withholding tax rates, very few can compete with final taxation this low.

In addition to the Central Bank, the Cypriot banking system consists of 4 banks listed on the Cyprus Stock Exchange, 8 subsidiaries of foreign banks, 2 banks licenced to conduct limited banking operations, 8 branches of banks from EU countries, 17 branches of non-EU banks, 2 Representative Offices and 4 other banks. Since 2005, all Cyprus companies are 'onshore'; exchange controls have been abolished.

The Temporary Residence Employment (TRE) permit acts as permission to reside and work in Cyprus, and these are categorised as executive and non-executive permits, with the latter usually only issued if there is no suitably qualified Cypriot available to take the position. However, they are given fairly freely to senior employees, and foreign nationals retiring to the island. The TRE permit, until recently, was issued initially for a two year period, renewable at three yearly intervals subsequently.

Legislation in July 2000 required an expatriate worker to have obtained a five year permit, or have been resident in Cyprus for five years, in order to be able to bring their spouse and children to live with them. However, more recent legislation (November 2000) relaxed this rule for expatriates working in certain sectors (specifically education, foreign media, offshore, accounting, and those who have invested more than EUR160,000 in local enterprise).

An individual is seen to be tax resident in Cyprus if he/she is present for more than 183 days in any tax year. Non-EU or non-EEA nationals require permits from the government to purchase property on the island, which should be for physical residence. Citizens of EU member states are now of course entitled to work in Cyprus without permits, but the process can be sticky for some nationalities.

The majority of the Cypriot population (80%) speak Greek, with the remainder in the Northern sector speaking mainly Turkish. English is also widely spoken, with German, French and Russian being spoken in the main tourist centres. There are several English language newspapers available, and the warm Mediterranean climate means that pursuits such as cycling, golf, and water sports are popular, although winter sports (in winter!) are becoming more popular.

The predominant religion is Greek Orthodox, and it is worth bearing in mind that although civil disorder is not common, there are tensions between the south and the northern, Turkish controlled area of Cyprus.

The permit issued to intending retirees is usually issued for one year, and is renewable annually thereafter, subject to proof of adequate financial resources (i.e. capital, investment income, or pension), and expatriate retirees are not permitted to undertake any kind of work in Cyprus except voluntary charity work. The network of double taxation treaties means that in most cases, retirement income remitted from abroad will not be subject to withholding tax at source.

For a more detailed treatment of the tax and legal regimes in this and 40 other offshore jurisdictions, please visit the Lowtax Jurisdictions Guide.

GIBRALTAR Language - English, but Spanish widely spoken Currency - Gibraltar Pound Status - UK dependent territory Population - 27,967	INCOME TAX	SOCIAL TAXES	CAPITAL GAINS TAX	PROPERTY TAX
	Varies depending on whether paying tax under Allowance Based System or Gross Income Based System (Top rate is 40%)	N/A	N/A	N/A
	STAMP DUTY	OTHER TAXES	TAX RESIDENCE QUALIFICATION	BASIS OF RESIDENT TAXATION
	N/A	N/A	Present for 183 days in tax year, or a mere visit if you have accommodation	World-wide income
	LEGAL BASIS OF RESIDENCE	COST OF RESIDENCE DOCUMENT	WORK PERMIT REQUIRED?	WORK PERMIT AUTHORITY
	Special regimes available for 'HINWIS' and Expat Executives	Cat 2-G£500 (Indefinite), Cat 3 or 4-G£500 (3 Year Certificate)	Yes	Governor (under Control of Immigration Ordinance)

Gibraltar

In terms of investing and banking, Gibraltar offers a stable and well-regulated jurisdiction, with offshore trusts and 'exempt' companies (for the purposes of tax minimisation) a particular speciality. The tax regime is favourable for investors, although not so wonderful for residents, there are no exchange controls, and with the exception of the ongoing disagreements with Spain, the jurisdiction is politically stable. There were 26 banks in Gibraltar in 1996, but by 2009 the number had dropped to 18. The banking sector is well established in both the offshore and local market, with assets in the vicinity of G£8.3 billion. The regulatory regime falls in line with both the Basle and EU requirements. The Gibraltar Deposit Protection Board operates a deposit protection scheme (did the name give it away?).

Residence and employment in Gibraltar are reasonably easy to obtain if you are an EU national, as you will usually be issued with a six month entry visa, followed by a five year renewable permit if suitable employment has been found, or if a business has been set up.

Non-EU nationals are more limited in their options, but there have traditionally still been several ways of obtaining residence and work. Aside from applying for a job that no resident Gibraltarian is willing to do (nice!), there were more appealing status options for the expatriate. These included:

• Category 2 individuals. Of recent years, Gibraltar has made a number of concessions in order to persuade High Net Worth Individuals to make Gibraltar their home, and for a one-off payment of GBP500, and the provision of 2 letters of reference (one of which must be from a banker), a certificate will be issued, limiting the individual's liability for taxation to the first GBP50,000 of assessable income, with all further income being tax free. (This usually results in a tax bill of around GBP28,750). From 1 July 2007, the minimum tax payable was increased from GBP14,000 per annum to GBP18,000 per annum and the taxable income level was increased from GBP50,000 to GBP60,000.
  
• Category 3 individuals. If an expatriate executive is working for an Exempt or Qualifying company (the usual choices for a foreign investor), then their employer can usually apply for a renewable (3 yearly) certificate at a cost of GBP500, capping the tax payable at GBP10,000, whatever their eventual income. Category 3 status was abolished for new entrants in 2007. Existing Category 3 holders will be able to retain that status until expiry of their current certificate or for two years until 30 June 2009, whichever is the longer. However, the amount of tax payable rose with effect from 1 July 2007 from GBP10,000 to GBP15,000 per annum. A new category called ‘High Executive Possessing Specialist Skills’ (HEPSS) was established for existing Category 3 holders who earn more the GBP100,000 per annum, and new applicants who possess skills not available in Gibraltar and, in the Government’s opinion, necessary to promote and sustain economic activity of particular economic value to Gibraltar, who will occupy a high executive or senior management position, and who will earn more than GBP100,000 per annum of income in Gibraltar.
  
• Category 4 individuals. Relocated Executives Possessing Special Skills (or REPSS) can apply for a certificate valid for 3 years (and costing GBP500) limiting their tax bill to GBP5,000 (on an income of GBP50,000 or less), or GBP10,000 otherwise. In order to be eligible for this permit, however, they must be able to prove that they are providing a service or skill not available in Gibraltar, and that their employment will be of benefit to the economy of Gibraltar. The employer has to create another job for a Gibraltarian alongside. Category 4 Status was abolished for new entrants with effect from 1 July 2007. Existing holders may retain the status until the end of the current certificate or 30 June 2009, whichever is the longer. However, minimum tax payable will increase with effect from 1 July 2007 from GBP5,000 per annum to GBP7,500 per annum.

Since 2007, there have been two parallel systems of income taxation. The first system is the existing Allowance Based System under current tax rates, which were reduced in that year's budget. The top rate of tax was reduced from 42% to 40%. The standard tax rate band (on which tax is paid at 30%) was widened by GBP3,000 from the previous GBP4,000 to GBP13,000 to GBP4,000 to GBP16,000.

The alternative system is a new Gross Income Based system, in which the taxpayer will receive no allowances, but will pay tax on gross income at the following rates: 20% on the first GBP25,000; 30% on the next GBP75,000; 40% above GBP100,000.

As a result, no taxpayer with income below GBP25,000 per annum will pay more than 20% income tax; no taxpayer with income below GBP50,000 will pay more than 25% income tax; no taxpayer with income below GBP100,000 will pay more than 27.5% income tax; and no taxpayer with income below GBP125,000 per annum will pay more than 30% income tax.

Whether you are planning to spend your dotage on 'The Rock', or whether you mean to retire at 40 and live the high life, the lifestyle offered to you by any jurisdiction will be high on your list of concerns.

The Gibraltar lifestyle may be of most interest to UK expats, due to the close relationship between the two countries, and the official language is English, although Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and Russian are also spoken. There is a great deal of cultural diversity on the peninsula, and the majority of the country is Roman Catholic, although there are also Protestant, Muslim, and Jewish communities. There are several English language newspapers available, and the nightlife has a distinctly British flavour (and can hence become a bit rowdy!) Water sports and wildlife pursuits are available for the more active expat, and crime rates are generally low.

A final word of warning - Gibraltar, in common with many other offshore jurisdictions, offers tax breaks to non-residents, but not to residents, so although Gibraltar may be a good base for your assets during your working life, if it is where you plan to live on retirement, you need to consider the impact of taxation on your income.

For a more detailed treatment of the tax and legal regimes in this and 40 other offshore jurisdictions, please visit the Lowtax Jurisdictions Guide.

GUERNSEY Language - English and French Currency - UK Pound Status - UK Crown Dependency Population -65,573	INCOME TAX	SOCIAL TAXES	CAPITAL GAINS TAX	PROPERTY TAX
	One rate of 20%	Employee pays 6%	Dwellings Profit Tax : 100% on profits from sale of dwelling or land unless used for genuine residence purposes	N/A
	STAMP DUTY	OTHER TAXES	TAX RESIDENCE QUALIFICATION	BASIS OF RESIDENT TAXATION
	N/A	N/A	Present for more than 182 days, or possession of a dwelling place	Solely and principally resident : World-wide income
	LEGAL BASIS OF RESIDENCE	COST OF RESIDENCE DOCUMENT	WORK PERMIT REQUIRED?	WORK PERMIT AUTHORITY
	RTW Permit for limited period; long term residence based on individual status	N/A	Yes : For non EU nationals	States Defence Committee of the Aliens Office

Guernsey

Guernsey is a very well respected offshore financial sector, and although the financial sector is similar in many ways to that of Jersey (for example the consistently favourable tax regime, lack of exchange controls, and strict regulatory controls), there are important differences, for example in terms of particular areas of expertise.

Europe's largest captive insurance sector is located in Guernsey; at 31st October 2007, there were in total 638 international insurance companies registered in Guernsey, comprising 303 captives, 71 PCCs and 262 PCC cells. Total assets in 2006 stood at GBP18.8 billion. Additionally, in the areas of PCCs, there is rising interest in special purpose vehicles (SPVs), although these are usually only arranged by well capitalised companies.

The island is also well respected in terms of its advisory and financial infrastructure, and expertise in trust formation and management (there are more than 200 firms offering fiduciary trust services in Guernsey, and over GBP50 billion in trust assets are held there). Investment funds are flourishing alongside the Channel Islands Stock Exchange (based in Guernsey).

Banking is also a major source of revenue on the island. As of June 2005, there were more than fifty licensed banking institutions in Guernsey (all of which are subsidiaries or branches of the top foreign banks), and although the number of institutions has remained approximately the same since the rapid growth period in the 1980's, the deposit base has continued to grow, with only a third of the amount held actually in sterling, reflecting the increasing internationalisation of the island's financial sector. Banks are regulated by the Financial Services Commission (as in Jersey), and the capital adequacy rules surpass the Basle requirements.

The immigration and residence legislation is similar to that of Jersey, and for the same reasons, namely limited space and resources, and a desire to preserve the quality of life for existing residents. As a result, although it is possible to obtain short term residence and employment (with a 'Right to Work', or RTW permit), long term and permanent residence are very difficult to obtain. There are no real concessions made to ordinary (i.e. not HNWI) expatriates, or employees of resident exempt or qualifying companies - the RTW permit grants permission to reside on the island for its duration, and conversely, permission to reside automatically confers the right to a RTW permit.

Tax residence in Guernsey is assumed if an individual is present there for more than 182 days, or if they possess a dwelling place on the island. A solely and principally resident individual will be liable for taxation on world-wide income. A person not in possession of a dwelling place in Guernsey is usually deemed to be resident, but not solely and principally so. As such, they will usually only be taxed on Guernsey source income, or income remitted to Guernsey.

Both English and French are spoken widely, and there are a couple of English language newspapers available. The temperate climate (mild in the winter, but cool in the summer) means that water sports, walking, cycling, and golf are among the leisure options available, and Christianity is the dominant religion, with Anglican, Baptist, and Congregational communities in evidence.

As with Jersey, despite its manifest advantages as an offshore base for your assets during your working life, unless you are exceptionally well off, your chances of being allowed to retire to Guernsey are very slim.

For a more detailed treatment of the tax and legal regimes in this and 35 other offshore jurisdictions, please visit the Lowtax Jurisdictions Guide.

IRELAND Language - Irish, but English in everyday use Currency - Euro Status - Democratic Republic Population - 4,109,086	INCOME TAX	SOCIAL TAXES	CAPITAL GAINS TAX	PROPERTY TAX
	Progressive rates to 41% plus a 2%, 4% or 6% levy	Employee pays between 6% and 8% depending on pay	25% exit tax on funds	N/A
	STAMP DUTY	OTHER TAXES	TAX RESIDENCE QUALIFICATION	BASIS OF RESIDENT TAXATION
	Not for property up to EUR150,000. After that, ranges from 3% to 9%	N/A	Present for more than half of tax year, or 280 days over 2 years	Resident and domiciled: World-wide income
	LEGAL BASIS OF RESIDENCE	COST OF RESIDENCE DOCUMENT	WORK PERMIT REQUIRED?	WORK PERMIT AUTHORITY
	Certificate of Registration (Green Book)	N/A	Yes : for non-EU nationals	Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment

Ireland

In the investment and banking sector, Ireland has experienced a great upsurge in the number and types of provider available, due in great part to the establishment of the IFSC (International Financial Services Centre), which encouraged banking and investment providers to physically locate in the old docks area in Dublin. However the tax incentives concerned were phased out in favour of a uniform 12.5% rate of corporation tax.

The jurisdiction is particularly well thought of in terms of expertise in the following areas:

• Banking. There are hundreds of banks established in Ireland, all of which are strictly licensed and regulated by the Central Bank.
  
• Establishment and management of investment funds, many of them linked to life assurance - changes to the tax regime in 2001 increased the attractiveness of many of these funds to Irish residents
  
• Management and holding of international financial activities

There are no exchange controls in Ireland, and the political situation seems to be moving towards greater stability, although religious and political tensions do still exist.

It is relatively easy for EU nationals to enter the country, and on arrival, no residence or work permit is necessary. Australian, Canadian and US citizens do not need to apply for a residence permit, but all other groups will need a work and residence permit for the duration of their visit.

Although Irish law does not allow for permanent residence as such, any individual who has been granted a visa, and wants to stay in the country for longer than three months (for the purposes of starting a business, seeking employment, or marrying an EU or Irish resident), can apply for a Certificate of Registration (or Green Book) from the local constabulary in their area of residence. The registration, if successful, will act as permission to reside, and will need to be renewed at regular intervals.

The concept of domicile comes into play in the calculation of tax liability in Ireland, but as this is normally (although not always) the result of having an Irish-domiciled father, most foreign nationals are not considered to be domiciled in Ireland, even if they are resident there. Tax residence is assumed if an individual is present in the country for more than half of the tax year, or over 280 days in two years. The liabilities are as follows:

• Domiciled and resident: Liable for tax on world-wide income
  
• Resident but not domiciled: Liable on foreign income only if remitted to Ireland.

Although Irish is the official language, English is spoken widely on both a business and day-to-day level, and there are several English language newspapers available. The majority of the population (95%) is Roman Catholic, with the Protestant community making up the remainder, and outdoor pursuits such as horse riding, cycling, fishing and golf are popular, despite the slightly damp climate.

There are a few options available for the expat resident in Ireland as regards retirement investment, but it is worth bearing in mind that for the expat living in Ireland, who will normally not be domiciled, offshore investment will not be taxable in Ireland provided the proceeds are not remitted there.

For a more detailed treatment of the tax and legal regimes in this and 40 other offshore jurisdictions, please visit the Lowtax Jurisdictions Guide.

JERSEY Language - English and French Currency - UK Pound Status - UK Crown Dependency Population - 91,321	INCOME TAX	SOCIAL TAXES	CAPITAL GAINS TAX	PROPERTY TAX
	One rate of 20%	Employee pays 6%, self-employed pay 12.5%	N/A	Stamp duty is imposed on the transfer of real estate at variable rates
	STAMP DUTY	OTHER TAXES	TAX RESIDENCE QUALIFICATION	BASIS OF RESIDENT TAXATION
	N/A	N/A	Present for more than 6 months in any tax year, 3 months per year over 4 year period, or Jersey abode visited at any time	Resident and ordinarily resident : World-wide income
	LEGAL BASIS OF RESIDENCE	COST OF RESIDENCE DOCUMENT	WORK PERMIT REQUIRED?	WORK PERMIT AUTHORITY
	Dependent on individual residence status rather than employment	N/A	Yes : For non EU nationals	States Defence Committee of the Aliens Office

Jersey

Jersey has an international reputation as one of the world's major important financial centres, and as such is very attractive to foreign workers and investors. The jurisdiction is particularly well respected in the following areas:

• Banking. Total deposits held with Jersey banks at the end of December 2008 increased in sterling terms by GBP20.8bn from the end of September 2008 level of GBP136.3bn to reach a new highest figure of GBP157.1bn, representing a 15.3% increase over the quarter and 31.9% over the year. Total assets and liabilities increased by GBP27bn over the quarter representing a 17.8% increase to reach the highest level yet at GBP179.2bn. This represents a 35.9% increase over the year.
  
• Trust formation and management. Total trust assets held in Jersey exceed GBP100 billion.

Financial and advisory services are generally of a very high standard. The financial sector is regulated by the Financial Services Commission, and in terms of banking, the capital adequacy rules are considerably stiffer than the Basle requirements.

Jersey, in common with Guernsey, is in an unusual position in terms of residence, as there is limited space and resources, and the existing residents are keen to maintain the quality of life. Immigration policy reflects this situation, and permission for long-term residence is almost never granted.

In establishing tax residence, there are several categories: residence, ordinary residence (implying a more continuous presence on the island) and non-residence. An individual who is resident and ordinarily resident is liable for tax on their world-wide income, whereas a resident (but not ordinarily resident) person will only be taxed on income arising in Jersey, or foreign income remitted there. There are no real concessions made, or incentives offered for expatriate executives in terms of residence or taxation; in Jersey, there are no broad provisions made - it is your individual situation which is important.

English and French are both official languages in Jersey, (although the former is more often used for business purposes), and there are two main English language newspapers in circulation on the island. The climate is mild and sunny, with golf proving equally popular with expatriates and residents alike, and the population is predominantly Christian.

The bottom line if you are thinking of retiring to Jersey is…not unless you are extremely well off! As previously mentioned, long term residence in Jersey is almost an impossibility, and the only time that exceptions are made is in the case of HNWI purchasing substantial (preferably luxury) property, and who will obviously contribute a great deal to the island's economy in terms of taxes and investment.

For a more detailed treatment of the tax and legal regimes in this and 40 other offshore jurisdictions, please visit the Lowtax Jurisdictions Guide.

MALTA Language - Maltese and English Currency - Euro Status - Parliamentary Democracy Population - 401,880	INCOME TAX	SOCIAL TAXES	CAPITAL GAINS TAX	PROPERTY TAX
	For individuals, to EUR8,500: Nil, after that between 15-35%	Employee pays 10% of basic weekly wage	Capital gains are included in taxable income	There is a tax of 5% on the transfer of real estate
	STAMP DUTY	OTHER TAXES	TAX RESIDENCE QUALIFICATION	BASIS OF RESIDENT TAXATION
	Share transfers: 2%, Share issues: 0.4%	N/A	Present for more than 6 months	Domiciled and resident: World-wide income
	LEGAL BASIS OF RESIDENCE	COST OF RESIDENCE DOCUMENT	WORK PERMIT REQUIRED?	WORK PERMIT AUTHORITY
	Residence Permit	N/A	Yes : Stringent requirements, because of high unemployment	Principal Immigration Officer

Malta

Maltese banking and investment has traditionally been quite a small scale and local affair, but with the introduction of the Maltese stock exchange, and its continuing success in attracting mutual fund listings, this may all be set to change. Growth areas in Malta include banking, investment fund management, trust management, and investment holding, and there are several hundred foreign companies established on the island.

There are also a number of local banks (but very few foreign banks, as foreign banking activity was very strictly controlled until recently), and these are regulated by the Maltese Financial Services Centre. Although legislation governing the financial sector was relatively late in arriving, the professional and business infrastructure is good, and as a result, reasonably well regulated.

Malta levies moderately high internal taxes, but offers low tax incentives to individual foreign investors and companies alike.

The island has experienced some problems since it became independent from the UK, and when the British military withdrew in 1979, the economy slumped, and the political conditions were not good for business investment. However, the situation has improved vastly, and the financial sector is developing well.

In order to obtain a residence permit, a foreign national must be able to demonstrate sufficient income or capital, and must agree to buy or rent local property on the island.

Work permits, however, are a little harder to get hold of, and due to the historically high level of unemployment on the island, the criteria are quite strict. The Principal Immigration Officer must be applied to, and a permit is usually only issued if there is no suitably qualified Maltese resident available to fill the position, and if the prospective employer agrees to put in place training and understudying programmes.

Tax residence is assumed if an individual is present for more than six months in any tax year, and Malta is one of the few jurisdictions in which the concept of domicile comes into play when calculating tax liabilities, which are as follows:

• Domiciled and resident: Liable on world-wide income
  
• Resident (but not ordinarily resident) and not domiciled: Taxable only on Maltese income, and foreign income remitted to there.

The principal languages spoken in Malta are Maltese and English, although some Italian is spoken, and there are a number of English language newspapers available. The warm weather throughout the year means that pursuits such as walking, cycling and golf are popular, and there is a strong and active Roman Catholic community in place on the island.

The attractive standard of living, and number of tax breaks available for foreign national retirees (i.e. lack of property, estate, municipal, and local taxes, and absence of income and capital gains taxes on income arising outside Malta if not domiciled there) mean that overall, Malta is a very attractive destination as a retirement haven.

For a more detailed treatment of the tax and legal regimes in this and 40 other offshore jurisdictions, please visit the Lowtax Jurisdictions Guide.

PANAMA Language - Spanish, but English widely spoken Currency - US Dollar Status - Constitutional republic Population 3,242,173	INCOME TAX	SOCIAL TAXES	CAPITAL GAINS TAX	PROPERTY TAX
	Progressive to 27%	Employee pays 7.25% plus 1.25% educational tax	Levied on real estate gains at 30% but the basis is complex	Tax levied annually on sliding scale up to 1%
	STAMP DUTY	OTHER TAXES	TAX RESIDENCE QUALIFICATION	BASIS OF RESIDENT TAXATION
	On official public documents; seller pays 2% on real estate transfers	N/A	Present for 180 days in tax year	Territorial Basis
	LEGAL BASIS OF RESIDENCE	COST OF RESIDENCE DOCUMENT	WORK PERMIT REQUIRED?	WORK PERMIT AUTHORITY
	Different types of visa (See summary)	N/A	Yes : for anyone other than Panamanian citizens	Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare

Panama

Panama is the premier jurisdiction for offshore banking and shipping in Central and Southern America. Although it gained something of an unsavoury reputation in the 1980's, the government is attempting to move away from this image, and the incentives offered to foreign and domestic investors and efficient banking system seem to be having the desired effect; the volume of trade and number of individual clients using Panama as a base for their offshore activity has increased dramatically over the past few years.

Panama operates a territorial tax system, meaning that only income arising in Panama or from there is liable to taxation.

However, a fiscal reform package introduced in 2005 and which took effect from 2006 in most respects has changed the rules in some ways:

According to the newly introduced Paragraph 1-A of article 694 of the Fiscal Code, income derived from personal services such as wages, salaries and other personal remunerations will be treated as originating from a source located within Panamanian territory – even though such personal services may be physically and actually rendered both within and outside Panamanian territory – if the individual taxpayer resides in the Republic of Panama for at least 70% of the calendar days of any given year.

There are no exchange controls.

Banking legislation is liberal, and there are tight secrecy provisions. There are over 120,000 companies established in Panama, and around 80 licensed banks (2008), most of which specialise in South and Central American business. The large banking industry is regulated by the National Banking Commission, which fulfils some of the responsibilities of a central bank (as there isn't one), and grants banking licenses. The commission is very selective in granting licenses, and overall, branches of well-established and respected banks are preferred.

There are several different types of visa available for those wishing to work and live in Panama, including one specifically designed to ease the passage of the wealthy expatriate retiree into Panamanian life. Briefly, these are:

• Tourist Visa. A short term (up to 3 months) visa, which is easily obtainable
  
• Temporary Visitor Visa. Easily obtainable
  
• Special Temporary Visitor Visa. Easily obtainable
  
• Tourist Pensioner Visa. This is given to retirees who can demonstrate a monthly income of $750 or more from interest on time deposits in Panamanian banks.
  
• Immigrant Visa. Given to long-term working residents
  
• Investor's Visa. Given to those who invest their own capital in local business activity in areas such as the commercial, financial, agricultural, industrial, or reafforestation sectors.

In order to work in Panama, however, a work permit (usually valid for one year) will need to be obtained from the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare. Bear in mind that there are restrictions placed on the number of non-Panamanian citizens that can be employed by any company, even foreign companies (although there the quota is higher).

Expats planning to retire to Panama will almost certainly find something to their taste, with the tropical climate ensuring that pastimes such as water sports, fishing and golf are perennially popular. The majority of the population is Roman Catholic, and the entertainment options are many and varied, with night clubs, casinos and theatres available in the major cities.

As previously mentioned, Panama actively encourages wealthy pensioners to retire there, and Pensionado residence (available to expats that can demonstrate a certain level of verifiable monthly income for themselves and their dependents, and a clean bill of health) could be an attractive option. As a Pensionado resident you would be eligible for many 'perks', including discounts on a range of services and utilities, and tax breaks on the importing of household goods, and automobile purchase.

For a more detailed treatment of the tax and legal regimes in this and 40 other offshore jurisdictions, please visit the Lowtax Jurisdictions Guide.

SWITZERLAND Language - French, German, Italian and Romansch Currency - Swiss Franc Status - Federal Republic Population - 7,554,661	INCOME TAX	SOCIAL TAXES	CAPITAL GAINS TAX	PROPERTY TAX
	Levied at federal, cantonal and communal levels; doesn't usually exceed 40%	Usually about 13.1% of employee's salary; paid by them and the employer in equal amounts	Capital gains tax on real estate transactions averages 18%	N/A
	STAMP DUTY	OTHER TAXES	TAX RESIDENCE QUALIFICATION	BASIS OF RESIDENT TAXATION
	1% on issue of shares where value is over SFr250,000	Inheritance Tax and Wealth Tax	Present for more than 180 days (or 90 if in same abode constantly)	See summary
	LEGAL BASIS OF RESIDENCE	COST OF RESIDENCE DOCUMENT	WORK PERMIT REQUIRED?	WORK PERMIT AUTHORITY
	Residence Permit	Varies accrording to type of permit	Yes : tied in with residence permit	N/A

Switzerland

Switzerland has established a world-wide reputation as one of the world's premier financial centres, and is famed for being a neutral, secure low tax jurisdiction, with stringent banking secrecy legislation. It could be argued that the necessity of preserving this reputation prevents participation in some of the more risky (but potentially more profitable) growth areas of investment. However, if you are looking for solid gains, security, and a guaranteed reputation, then Switzerland is probably the jurisdiction for you. The political stability of this jurisdiction is one of its main 'selling points'.

Switzerland has always been best-known for its banking sector, with over 500 major banking institutions estimated to hold approximately 35% of the world's private wealth. Switzerland's decision to remain outside the EU and its insistence on retaining banking secrecy have reinforced its attractions as a safe home for wealth. Switzerland does however impose withholding taxes on many types of payment leaving the country, so it's not necessarily suitable as a base for wealth which is to be used to provide ongoing income in another country.

The Swiss are generally moderately taxed, with the process taking place at federal, cantonal, and communal levels, and there are no exchange controls.

The processes for obtaining residence, employment, and permission to purchase real estate are intertwined, with a number of different permits offering varying degrees of freedom to the bearer:

• 120 day permit. This permit allows a specialist or managerial worker to reside in Switzerland for up to 120 days, filling a specified position. This is the only permit not subject to a quota system.
  
• Class A permit. This is granted to 'blue collar workers'.
  
• Class B permit. This permit is usually issued to professionals, those who want to start a business in Switzerland, and those wealthy enough to live off their own resources whilst resident. This is the most commonly issued permit, and is usually valid for a year at a time, entitling the bearer to bring their spouse and children to live with them. However, the expatriate worker must be immigrating in order to fill a specific position, and must not be depriving a Swiss national of employment by taking the job.
  
• Class C permit. This is intended to provide longer-term residency, and provides the permit holder with the same rights as a Swiss citizen (among them, the right to purchase local real estate). To be eligible for a Class C permit, the expat must have been in possession of a Class B permit for between 5-10 years, with the length varying according to country of origin.
  
• Fiscal Deal Permit. This type of permit is suitable for the retired HNWI with a verifiable net worth of (at the time of writing) over 2 million Swiss Francs , who is willing to spend at least 180 days per year physically present in Switzerland.

In September, 2005, a 56% majority of Swiss voters approved proposals to open the country's borders to workers from new EU member states. The vote in favour of the extension of the bilateral agreement on freedom of movement to the ten new members was welcomed by both the Swiss authorities and the European Commission, as there had been some uncertainty as to the public mood on the matter.

The free movement of persons between Switzerland and the ten new EU member states will be introduced by separate transitional provisions regulated in an Additional Protocol to the existing Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons. Regulations applicable to third-country nationals will continue to apply until the Additional Protocol comes into force. On 31 May 2007, quotas for EU citizens wishing to work in Switzerland were suspended. Freedom of movement will be fully introduced between Switzerland and the EU as of June 2014.

Residence for tax purposes is assumed if an individual is in Swiss employment, carries on business there, or is present in the country for more than 180 days in any one tax year. As previously stated, there is no centralised tax regime as such, due to Switzerland's federalised nature, and with the exception of 'Fiscal Deal' residents, no distinction is made between residents and non-residents in terms of income tax, capital gains tax, stamp duty, etc.

Languages commonly spoken in Switzerland include German, French, Italian and English. Although the most popular newspapers are published in French and German, there are a multitude of English-language European and international newspapers available. The climatic variations caused by the Alps mean that popular leisure pursuits include hiking, cycling, and both winter and water sports. The religious community in Switzerland is fairly evenly split, with 49% of the population Roman Catholic, and 48% Protestant.

Switzerland is one of the few jurisdictions with special provisions for foreign nationals hoping to retire there, and for those with sufficient assets, the aforementioned 'Fiscal Deal' is an ideal retirement option, providing substantial tax advantages, as individuals are not taxed on their actual yearly income or assets, but on a nominal amount.

For a more detailed treatment of the tax and legal regimes in this and 40 other offshore jurisdictions, please visit the Lowtax Jurisdictions Guide.