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UK
February 16, 2026

UK Taxes Explained: Residency, FIG, Self-Assessment & Real Risks

Moving to the United Kingdom is not just about getting a visa — it means entering a completely new tax reality. Following the abolition of the non-dom regime and the introduction of the FIG (Foreign Income and Gains) regime, the rules of the game have changed. Tax mistakes at the beginning can be costly — both financially and in terms of your immigration status.

In the latest episode of the Relogate podcast, co-founder Roman Tsuper speaks with UK tax adviser Lyudmila Binland to unpack how the British tax system now works for new residents, founders, freelancers, and holders of Global Talent and Innovator Founder visas.

Below are the key topics discussed in the conversation — practical issues that many new UK residents face during their very first year in the country.

Tax Residency: Not as Obvious as It Seems


The first major question after relocation is: when exactly do you become a UK tax resident?

The answer depends on the Statutory Residence Test (SRT), which takes into account the number of days spent in the UK, availability of accommodation, employment, family ties, and other “connections” to the country. A misunderstanding of the rules can unexpectedly trigger an obligation to declare worldwide income and pay tax on foreign assets.

The podcast explores common misconceptions and real-life cases faced by new residents navigating these rules.

FIG Instead of Non-Dom: Who Benefits from the New Regime?


The abolition of the non-dom regime marked a turning point for many expats. The new FIG (Foreign Income and Gains) regime changes the logic of income and asset planning.

The discussion covers:

  • who can genuinely benefit from FIG,
  • what limitations have been introduced,
  • how the new rules affect relocation strategy and asset structuring.

The key takeaway: your tax strategy should be planned before changing your residency — not after.

Self-Assessment: The Obligation Many Forget About


Even if you are employed under a standard contract, filing a tax return may still be mandatory.

Self-assessment is required if you have:

  • foreign income,
  • self-employment or your own business,
  • dividends or rental income,
  • capital gains from asset sales,
  • cryptocurrency transactions.

It is important to understand that filing a tax return is about declaring income — not about claiming a refund. HMRC actively identifies individuals who fail to submit required returns.

Overseas Business, Crypto & Real Risks


The episode also covers the tax implications of managing overseas businesses from the UK, the risks of corporate control from within Britain, and the growing scrutiny of cryptocurrency transactions and international information exchange.

The UK tax system is becoming increasingly transparent and technologically advanced — relying on income “invisibility” is no longer a viable strategy.

Relogate supports high-skilled professionals and startup founders in obtaining UK visas, including Global Talent and Innovator Founder. We also assist with other aspects of relocation — from tax planning to banking, healthcare, education, and business structuring. In addition, we work with professional and entrepreneurial visas for France and the United States.

📩 Book your first free consultation.

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