Bright!Tax US Expat Tax Blog

What’s the Cost of Giving Birth in Canada for Non-Residents?

Children and parents gathering autumn leaves together, capturing the everyday joy of raising a family in Canada.

Welcoming a new baby is a life-changing event, and for U.S. citizens living abroad or traveling, it comes with unique questions and considerations. If you’re thinking about giving birth in Canada as a U.S. citizen, you’re not alone—many expats and cross-border families navigate this path every year. From legal entry requirements to dual citizenship, birth […]

What Expats Should Know About Private Banking in the UK

Smiling professionals reviewing financial data on a tablet—collaborating on business and wealth management UK strategies.

Navigating the world of private UK banking for expats can feel daunting, especially for American citizens living abroad. With unique financial needs and regulatory hurdles, many U.S. expats wonder if private banking in the UK is even possible—and if so, how to qualify. In this guide, we’ll break down what private banking means, who can […]

Wealth Tax in Canada: What High-Earning Expats Need to Know

Investment jar with coins and a growing tree, representing long-term business and wealth management strategies.

Canada’s ongoing debate over taxing wealth is putting high-earning expats on alert. If you have substantial assets or investments, understanding how a potential wealth tax in Canada might affect your finances is essential. Here’s what top-earning American expats need to know—and why smart planning matters more than ever. Current status of wealth tax in Canada: […]

Real Estate in Portugal for Expats: Where—and How—to Buy

Business and wealth management in Portugal

As a U.S. expat, navigating the Portuguese property market can feel overwhelming—especially with unfamiliar legal requirements, regional differences, and cross-border financial considerations. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from legal basics to the best places to buy, so you can approach your property search with confidence and clarity. Legal requirements and restrictions […]

How Canada’s Withholding Tax Affects Dividends, Rent and Freelance Payments

A professional woman is sorting through tax documents, highlighting her role in tax preparation and analysis in a contemporary office setting.

Navigating cross-border finances can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding Canada withholding tax. If you’re a U.S. expat earning income from Canadian sources—whether through dividends, rental properties, or freelance work—knowing how withholding tax works is essential for staying compliant and maximizing your after-tax income. In this guide, we’ll break down the basics, explain […]

The Essential Guide for Americans Living in Australia in 2025

Life in Australia

Whether you’re drawn by career opportunities, a love of adventure, or the promise of a new lifestyle, relocating Down Under is both exciting and complex. This essential guide is designed to help you navigate every major aspect of expat life in Australia—from visas and cost of living to healthcare, taxes, and cultural integration. Let’s break […]

Itemized Deductions vs. Standard Deduction: an Expat’s Guide

It’s a question that comes up for expats almost every year: “Should I choose the standard deduction or itemized deductions?” The answer — as with so many things in life — is “it depends.” But if you need help choosing between itemized deductions vs. the standard deduction, we’re here to help. While the standard deduction […]