UK Pension Options for Residents in France
If you live in France and still hold UK pensions, understanding your options is essential. Whether you keep your pension where it is, transfer to a SIPP, or explore a QROPS, the right decision depends on your residency status, tax position and long-term plans.
Download the Free Guide
Moving to France from the UK? Access our guide to the tax, pension and financial planning considerations for UK nationals moving to or living in France.
Living in France with a UK pension?
Most UK nationals living in France generally need to review three broad options: keeping their existing UK pension, transferring to a SIPP, or considering a QROPS.
Retain Your UK Scheme
You may be able to keep your existing pension where it is. This can be straightforward, but access, flexibility and provider restrictions may vary, especially after Brexit.
Transfer to a SIPP
A SIPP can offer flexible drawdown, wide investment choice, multi-currency options and UK regulation. It may also avoid the Overseas Transfer Charge.
Transfer to a QROPS
QROPS can offer flexibility in some cases, but costs, transfer restrictions and the 25% Overseas Transfer Charge must be reviewed carefully.
Why pension planning matters in France
Moving to France does not remove the importance of your UK pension decisions. Pension withdrawals, taxation, inheritance considerations and reporting requirements can all be affected by your French residency status.
UK pensions are generally taxable in France for French residents, and the UK–France Double Taxation Agreement may help prevent the same income being taxed twice when handled correctly.
Moving to France from the UK
A practical guide to the tax, pension and financial planning considerations for UK nationals moving to or living in France.
Download the Free GuideUnderstanding French tax rates
French taxation can affect pension withdrawals, investment income, capital gains and inheritance planning. Understanding how the French tax system works is an important part of planning a successful move.
View French Tax GuideSpeak with a cross-border pension specialist
Whether you are considering a SIPP, evaluating a QROPS or simply want to understand how your UK pensions may be treated in France, our advisers can help you review your options.