Bright!Tax US Expat Tax Blog

So, you’ve set your sights on a slice of the Great White North—maybe a Toronto condo, a Vancouver townhouse, or a lakeside cottage near Montreal. Real estate in Canada still feels like a safe bet, even when prices make your eyes water and your wallet flinch. But before you start daydreaming about your future Canadian […]

Congratulations. You’ve made it across the border, survived Canadian immigration, and learned to spell “neighbourhood” with an extra “u.” Now you’re staring down your first real Canadian winter—a rite of passage best tackled with layers, a sense of humor, and a sturdy pair of boots. But paperwork and parka-shopping are just the start. Real life […]

Thinking of swapping Florida sunshine for English gardens and endless cups of tea? You’re not alone. More Americans are weighing what it takes to retire in the UK, tempted by world-class healthcare, a gentler pace, and finally getting to say “cheers” unironically. Post-Brexit, it’s no longer as simple as showing up with a suitcase and […]

Planning a quick UK getaway, a long-overdue family reunion, or just craving some proper British chips? Good news: for most short trips, U.S. citizens still don’t need a visa to visit the UK. But, in classic British fashion, there’s a twist—thanks to the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, you’ll want to double-check the latest […]

Thinking about swapping Trader Joe’s for Tesco? The cost of living in the UK can be a pleasant surprise—or a minor shock—depending on where you unpack your suitcases. While London rent makes New York look like a bargain bin, a flat in Leeds or a cottage in Cornwall might leave you with enough leftover for […]

From chasing career dreams in London to enrolling at a centuries-old university—or maybe just following your heart across the pond—there are plenty of reasons Americans are packing up and moving to the UK from the USA. Unlike hopping to Canada or heading somewhere with year-round sun, moving to the United Kingdom comes with its own […]

Imagine walking into a doctor’s office and leaving without opening your wallet, arguing with your insurer, or deciphering mysterious “Explanation of Benefits” statements. That’s your first taste of UK healthcare—and it’s both a relief and a bit of a shock for most Americans abroad. Swapping U.S. private healthcare for the NHS comes with its own […]

In Canada, your taxable income isn’t just your salary—it’s everything the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) can spot, sniff out, or imagine showing up on your T4, bank statement, or rental agreement. Side hustle? That’s income. Cash from a freelance gig? Definitely income. Your Airbnb payout or crypto win? The CRA’s already taking notes. Getting it […]