Bright!Tax US Expat Tax Blog

Jure Sanguinis: How to Get Italian Citizenship by Descent

Venice, Italy.

Your Italian ancestry might be more than just a family story—it could be your ticket to Italian citizenship. Thanks to Italy’s Jure Sanguinis law, you might already qualify for Italian citizenship by descent, no matter how many generations have passed. For many, Italian dual citizenship isn’t just about reconnecting with their roots—it’s about gaining an Italian passport, the freedom to live and work anywhere […]

How Form 2555 Helps You Exclude Foreign Income From U.S. Taxes

Confident businesswoman working internationally, potentially qualifying to exclude income using Form 2555.

For Americans abroad, some tax forms feel like chores. But Form 2555 is different—it’s the one that can actually make your U.S. tax bill smaller. Form 2555 is how you claim the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE), a benefit that lets you exclude a significant portion of your foreign salary or self-employment income from U.S. […]

IRS Form 2350: How Expats Can Extend Their U.S. Tax Deadline

Joyful retired couple walking along the beach, symbolizing the extended filing timeline offered by Form 2350 for expats.

Living abroad can reset almost everything—your time zone, your grocery list, even your definition of “good coffee.” What it doesn’t reset? Your obligation to file a U.S. tax return. For expats, the real prize is tax relief through the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) or Foreign Housing Exclusion. But to qualify, you need to show […]

What Americans Moving to Canada Need to Know in 2026

Young woman in a canoe holding a Canadian flag on Moraine Lake, symbolizing the adventure of Americans moving to Canada.

Every election year brings a wave of Americans daydreaming about a fresh start north of the border. After 2024, more people are turning those dreams into action. For many, Canada’s appeal is clear: universal healthcare, a strong social safety net, and a reputation for stability. Add in growing concerns at home—whether political, economic, or personal—and […]

Health Insurance for US Expats: How Coverage Works Abroad

Couple relaxing on the beach with their dog, reflecting the peace of mind that comes with having health insurance for US expats.

Healthcare doesn’t work the same everywhere, and for U.S. citizens abroad, that difference can be more than just a cultural adjustment. From government-run systems to private international plans, the structure of healthcare (and how you pay for it) can vary significantly from country to country. If you’re used to employer-sponsored coverage or options unique to […]

Form 8938: What U.S. Expats Must Report Under FATCA Rules

Young couple reviewing documents with a financial advisor, discussing reporting requirements for Form 8938.

You know that foreign pension you barely remember signing up for? Or the joint account you opened just to pay rent abroad? Yeah—the IRS wants to talk about it. Officially called the Statement of Specified Foreign Financial Assets, form 8938 is how the U.S. keeps tabs on Americans with money overseas. If you’re a U.S. […]