99. [Re-Release] Moving to Europe as an American: The Tax Mistakes That Can Cost You Dearly

This week's episode is a re-release of one of our most popular episodes, covering the US tax obligations, investment traps, and estate planning issues that catch American expats off guard when moving to Europe.

For Americans moving abroad, the dream of a new life in Europe can quickly become complicated by US tax rules, foreign reporting requirements, estate planning mismatches, and costly investment mistakes. From buying property in France, to opening a business in Spain, to holding foreign mutual funds or trusts that no longer work overseas, the consequences of poor planning can be severe and expensive to unwind.

For those considering moving to America or moving to the US in the future, many of these same cross-border challenges apply in reverse, making early planning essential regardless of direction.

Richard Taylor – dual UK/US citizen and Chartered Financial Planner – is

joined by Christine Alexis Concepcion – international tax attorney and Managing Partner at Concepcion Global PLLC – to discuss what US citizens and green card holders need to know before relocating abroad, especially to Europe. They explore ongoing US tax obligations, the risks of investing or

structuring assets incorrectly, and why trying to “figure it out later” often

leads to significantly higher costs.

Drawing on real client scenarios, they highlight how decisions around foreign investments, business advise, and international wealth structuring can create long-term tax exposure if not handled correctly. They also explain why working with a qualified wealth advisor and US tax help specialists is critical for navigating cross border complexity.

In this episode of Expat Wealth, Richard and Christine discuss:

How Americans and green card holders remain subject to US tax filing obligations on worldwide income and assets, even after moving abroad.

Why forming a foreign company, investing in a foreign business, or buying non-US mutual funds without planning can trigger punitive tax treatment and complex reporting requirements.

How trusts, foreign property purchases, and cross-border estate planning can create major problems in Europe if not reviewed before a move.