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Date Published: 22/04/2026

Left the UK after April 5, 2025? Expats in Spain could still face UK tax under new rules

The experts at Elysium Wealth Advisors explain everything you need to know about UK domicile changes

From April 6, 2025, the UK tax system has undergone a major shift. The concept of “non-domicile” (non-dom) has effectively been abolished and replaced with a residence-based regime.

So what does this mean if you’ve left the UK after April 5, 2025?

1. Your exposure doesn’t automatically end

Leaving the UK no longer guarantees you’re outside the UK tax net. Your position now depends on your residency status, not your domicile.

Even after departure, you must carefully consider the Statutory Residence Test to ensure you are genuinely non-UK resident.

2. Worldwide taxation still matters

Under the new rules, UK residents are taxed on worldwide income and gains. While this may no longer apply once you become non-resident, the timing of your departure is critical.

If not structured properly, you could still be caught for part of the tax year or trigger unexpected liabilities.

3. The 10-year inheritance tax “tail”

A key risk often overlooked: even after leaving the UK, inheritance tax (IHT) can still apply to your global estate.

Individuals who have been UK resident for long periods may fall within a “long-term residence” category, meaning:

Your worldwide assets could remain subject to UK IHT
Exposure can continue for up to 10 years after leaving the UK.

4. Planning is no longer optional

This is not just about moving abroad. It’s about:

Structuring your departure correctly
Understanding ongoing UK tax exposure
Reviewing offshore assets, trusts, and investments
Managing long-term residency risks

The UK has shifted from a domicile-based system to a “how long have you been resident?” approach.

If you’ve left the UK after April 5, 2025, you may still have UK tax exposure, and ignoring it could be costly.

If you’ve recently left the UK, don’t assume you’re outside the system.

Elysium Wealth Advisors is an independent financial advisory firm specialising in helping expats, private clients and families manage their wealth across borders. With a strong focus on individuals living in Spain and throughout Europe, the team provides clear, tailored advice designed around each client’s personal circumstances rather than generic, one-size-fits-all solutions.

Their advisers bring decades of combined experience and hold industry-leading qualifications, covering everything from investment planning and wealth management through to retirement strategies, tax planning and estate structuring. This includes specialist advice on UK pensions such as SIPPs, QROPS and QNUPS, which are often key considerations for those who have moved abroad.

Elysium Wealth Advisors are fully independent, meaning their recommendations are not tied to any product providers. Clients can access support online or in person, making it simple to get expert financial guidance wherever they are based.

Contact Elysium Wealth Advisors for a tailored review of your position and protect your wealth.

Whatsapp 🇪🇸 Spain: +34 674 587 950

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Independent, personalised financial advice for expats, private clients and families in Spain

Elysium Wealth Advisors offers independent, personalised financial advice to private clients, expats and families across Europe, the Middle East and beyond, with a dedicated team that takes the time to understand your individual goals and circumstances.

Their services cover everything from investments and retirement planning to tax planning, protection planning, insurance solutions and property services.

Whether you're just starting to think about your financial future or you need specialist guidance on managing and growing existing assets, they've got the expertise to help.

Elysium Wealth Advisors works with clients across Spain, Portugal, the UAE and further afield, and the team ensures that personalised, face-to-face support is available wherever you happen to be based.

Elysium is an approachable, client-focused outfit that understands the unique financial challenges that come with expat life, and the team is available around the clock if you need them.

To find out more or to get in touch, visit elysiumwealthadvisors.com, drop Gary a line at gary@elysiumwealthadvisors.com or call on +44 74444 13087 or +34 674 587 950.