Bright!Tax US Expat Tax Blog

Understanding FBAR Filing: Should You Include Online Banks?

money in foreign online bank accounts

As a digitally savvy expat, you likely have some experience with money service providers and payment systems like Wise, PayPal, and others. And it’s all fun and games until it’s time to file your FBAR (Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts), the annual disclosure of your foreign financial accounts held outside the US. Generating […]

Beckham Law in Spain: How U.S. Expats Can Save Thousands on Taxes

Smiling couple visiting Barcelona, where expats may benefit from tax perks under the Beckham Law in Spain.

If you’re a U.S. expat eyeing Spain’s sunshine and sangria—but not its steep tax rates—the Beckham Law might be your golden ticket. Named after football legend David Beckham (who famously took advantage of it when he signed with Real Madrid), this special tax regime was introduced in 2005 to attract foreign workers and professional athletes […]

Panama or Costa Rica: US Expat Property Buying Guide

Panama or Costa Rica property guide

Which country is better for investing in real estate, Panama or Costa Rica? Americans looking to move abroad while staying within the North American continent are increasingly asking this question. Both Latin American countries offer tropical climates, unspoiled nature, and vibrant expat communities. Of course, the two countries differ in some key ways—these differences are […]

9 Low Tax Countries That Are Ideal for U.S. Expats

houses at a beach

If you’re a U.S. expat dreaming of sunshine, good Wi-Fi, and lower taxes—you’re not alone. For many Americans abroad, finding low tax countries isn’t just a financial move; it’s a lifestyle upgrade. But here’s the catch: no matter where you live, Uncle Sam still wants a peek at your income. U.S. citizens are taxed on […]

Spain Golden Visa Program: What You Need to Know

Beach in Spain golden visa program

If you want to move to a country with a rich culture, an affordable cost of living, and beautiful vistas, you may want to look into Spain’s golden visa. For those with capital to invest, the Spanish golden visa offers the aforementioned benefits and many more. Of course, before deciding whether or not you want […]

US-UK Tax Treaty Rules: What Expats Must Know

US-UK tax treaty

If you’re an American living in the UK, knowing about the US-UK tax treaty is essential. This agreement between the US and the United Kingdom offers some major tax benefits for Americans living and working in the UK (and vice versa). But, with around 39 pages and tons of technical jargon, the treaty is far […]

Retire in Spain: Visas, Healthcare, Taxes, & More

South od Spain

If you want to enjoy your retirement days in a country with a lower cost of living, great weather, and a rich culture, you may want to retire in Spain.  Between the Mediterranean climate, delicious tapas, lively festivals, and laid-back pace of life, Spain has become an increasingly popular retirement destination. Of course, before up […]

The South Korea Digital Nomad Visa: A Guide for US Expats

South Korea for digital nomads

Whether you’re a fan of Korean films, music, and dramas — or just looking for a safe, beautiful, and relatively affordable place to live in Asia — it’s worth looking into the South Korea digital nomad visa. As of January 1st, 2024, the South Korean digital nomad visa (also known as the “Workation” or F-1-D […]