UK taxpayers with income from overseas may not always be aware of the tax rules that apply. Foreign income is defined as any income from outside England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are classed as foreign. Different rules may apply if you’re eligible for Foreign Income and Gains relief.
Foreign income can include wages from working abroad, overseas dividends and savings interest, rental income from foreign property, and pensions held outside the UK.
Whether UK tax is due depends mainly on your UK residence status. If you are not UK resident, you will not usually pay UK tax on your foreign income. However, UK residents will generally need to pay tax on worldwide income unless a specific exemption or relief applies.
Since 6 April 2025, changes to the rules affecting individuals who previously relied on their overseas domicile status mean that some people may need to review how their foreign income and gains are taxed. Eligible individuals may be able to claim Foreign Income and Gains (FIG) relief, depending on their circumstances.
Foreign income that is taxable in the UK is normally reported through a self-assessment tax return, although some types of income have different rules.
If the same income is taxed in both the UK and another country, you may be able to claim relief to prevent double taxation. In some cases, you may need a certificate of residence from HMRC to confirm your entitlement to relief.