Looking for the best International SIPP providers 2025? For UK expats and international investors looking to take control of their pension planning, the Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) continues to stand out as a powerful and flexible option.
Selecting the best SIPP provider is crucial for ensuring compliance with UK and EU regulations, optimizing tax efficiency, and meeting your individual needs, especially when managing international pension schemes as part of your retirement planning.
International pension schemes are a key consideration for expats, offering flexibility and a range of investment options for those living abroad.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know for effective retirement planning, from how SIPPs work abroad to the top options available this year, and help you compare different pension schemes.
What is an International Self Invested Personal Pension (SIPP)?
An international SIPP is essentially a UK-registered personal pension that accommodates British citizens living overseas (and is a type of self invested personal pension). International SIPPs are part of the broader category of personal pensions and pension schemes available to UK residents and expats. It allows individuals to invest in a wide range of investment options, from stocks and ETFs to property funds, all while enjoying the tax efficiency and regulatory oversight of the UK’s pension framework.
Unlike a QROPS, which involves transferring your pension outside the UK, an international SIPP keeps your pension within the UK but with expat-friendly features. International SIPPs are offered through regulated investment platforms, which provide a wide range of investment options for retirement planning. This often includes multi-currency options, flexible drawdown, and online access from abroad.
Benefits of SIPPs
A Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) offers a host of advantages for those looking to take control of their retirement savings. One of the standout benefits is the ability to receive tax relief on contributions, which can significantly boost the value of your pension pot over time. With a SIPP, your investments grow tax free, allowing your retirement funds to compound without the drag of capital gains tax or income tax on growth within the pension.
SIPPs also provide unparalleled flexibility in investment options. You can choose from a wide range of assets, including mutual funds, stocks, bonds, commercial property, and more, tailoring your investment strategy to your personal goals and risk appetite. This level of control is ideal for those who want to actively manage their own investments or consolidate multiple pension pots into a single, easy-to-manage invested personal pension SIPP.
Another key advantage is the ability to take up to 25% of your pension pot as a tax free lump sum when you reach retirement age, giving you immediate access to a portion of your savings. The remaining funds can be used to generate retirement income through drawdown or annuities, offering flexibility in how you access your pension funds. Additionally, SIPPs are generally free from inheritance tax, making them an efficient way to pass on your pension savings to beneficiaries. For anyone seeking tax efficiency, investment choice, and control over their retirement funds, a self invested personal pension is a compelling solution.
Can I Pay Into a UK SIPP and Receive Tax Relief If I Live Abroad?
Yes, you can contribute to a UK SIPP even if you live overseas, but there are limits and conditions. Contributions are usually eligible for UK tax relief if you have UK-relevant earnings. However, even without earnings, you can still contribute up to £3,600 gross annually. The annual allowance sets a maximum on pension contributions each tax year, and this limit applies to both personal and workplace pensions, including SIPPs. For UK expats, the annual allowance determines how much can be contributed with tax advantages, and factors such as income level and employer contributions can affect this limit.
Expat-friendly SIPP providers understand these nuances for UK expats and their pension contributions. They support transfers, allow flexible investment choices, and offer expert guidance for British expats in France, Australia, the UAE and beyond.
What to Look For in the Best International SIPP Providers
When evaluating international SIPP providers, consider the following:
- Best SIPP providers for 2025: The best SIPP providers are evaluated based on fees, investment options, and service, ensuring you maximize your retirement savings with a provider that offers a wide range of features.
- FCA regulation: The provider should be fully authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK.
- Global reach: Can you access your pension abroad? Do they understand local tax regimes and reporting obligations?
- Platform flexibility: A broad range of investment options is key, including investment trusts, investment funds, exchange traded funds (ETFs), and actively managed funds. Fund management is also important for those seeking professional oversight of their investments.
- Fee transparency: Look for clear information on annual fees, platform fees, annual administration fees, and fund management fees. Understanding these charges is crucial, as seeking a lower fee structure can significantly impact your long-term returns.
- Customer support: Expat-specific support teams are a huge plus.
Understanding SIPP Fees
When it comes to maximizing your retirement savings, understanding SIPP fees is essential. SIPP providers can vary significantly in how they charge for their services, so it’s important to know what to look for. Common fees include platform fees (charged for using the investment platform), dealing fees (for buying and selling investments), and annual administration fees. Some providers, like interactive investor, offer a flat fee or flat monthly fee, which can be especially cost effective for those with larger pension pots.
Other SIPP providers may charge a percentage of your pension pot, which can add up as your retirement funds grow. It’s crucial to compare these fee structures, as lower fees can make a substantial difference to your long-term pension savings. Look for SIPP providers that are transparent about their charges and offer competitive fees, whether that’s through a flat fee, tiered pricing, or lower fees for higher balances. By carefully considering the cost structure, you can ensure more of your money stays invested and working towards your retirement goals.
Tax Implications for International SIPP Holders
For international SIPP holders, understanding the tax implications is key to making the most of your retirement savings. While SIPPs are governed by UK tax rules, the tax treatment of your pension income and withdrawals can vary depending on your country of residence. In many cases, contributions to your SIPP may qualify for UK tax relief, boosting your pension pot with basic rate tax relief or more, depending on your circumstances.
One of the main tax benefits of a SIPP is tax-free growth on your investments, meaning you won’t pay UK capital gains tax or income tax on money invested within your pension. Additionally, you may be able to take a tax-free lump sum of up to 25% of your pension pot when you retire. However, the way your pension income is taxed when you start drawing it will depend on local tax laws and any double taxation agreements between the UK and your country of residence.
Given the complexity of international tax rules, it’s wise to consult a financial adviser who understands both UK and local tax implications. This will help you optimize your retirement savings, take advantage of available tax benefits, and avoid unexpected tax liabilities on your pension income.
Best International SIPP Providers in 2025
Based on client feedback, reputation, and international servicing capabilities, here are some of the top international SIPP providers this year. Choosing a reputable pension provider is crucial, as they play a key role in managing your SIPP and ensuring your retirement savings are secure. Leading investment platforms offered by these providers allow you to manage your funds efficiently, compare fee structures, and access a wide range of investment options. Many providers also support the transfer of your existing pension, such as an old workplace pension, making it easier to consolidate your retirement savings. Additionally, some providers offer access to offshore investments, giving you more opportunities for diversification and potential cost savings.
1. Novia Global
Novia Global continues to lead the pack for international investors. With a broad investment platform, multi-currency capability, and a slick online interface, it is ideal for tech-savvy expats. Investors should be aware of any foreign exchange fee that may apply when converting currencies or trading non-UK assets, as this can impact overall trading costs. The administration fees are competitive, and they offer access to thousands of global funds.
2. iPensions Group
Known for its flexible approach and low-cost fee structure, iPensions Group provides tailored solutions for expats. Their platform fee is competitive compared to other providers, helping investors minimize the overall cost of investing. Their international SIPP has become increasingly popular for those looking to hold UK pensions abroad without the high cost of a QROPS.
3. IFGL (Sovereign Group)
IFGL (previously Sovereign) has been in the expat pension space for years and provides SIPPs designed for clients with complex cross-border requirements. Their SIPP is often used in conjunction with wider estate and tax planning services. They work closely with financial advisers to provide comprehensive cross-border pension solutions.
4. Invinitive
Invinitive is gaining strong recognition in 2025 for its efficient service and expat-focused pension solutions. Their SIPP is particularly well-suited for clients seeking a modern, digitally accessible platform combined with transparent pricing. With a strong emphasis on client support and international pension expertise, Invinitive is quickly becoming a go-to choice for UK expats.
SIPP Regulation: What Expats Need to Know
For expats, the security of your retirement savings is paramount. SIPPs are regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which ensures that SIPP providers adhere to strict standards of transparency, customer service, and financial stability. This regulatory oversight means your invested personal pension SIPP is managed in a safe and secure environment, giving you peace of mind wherever you are in the world.
In addition to FCA regulation, the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) offers an extra layer of protection. If your SIPP provider were to become insolvent, the FSCS may compensate you up to certain limits, safeguarding your pension funds. As an expat, it’s also important to stay informed about the tax implications of holding a SIPP and to ensure you comply with all relevant UK pension rules and regulations.
By choosing reputable, FCA-regulated SIPP providers and understanding the protections in place, you can confidently manage your retirement savings from abroad, knowing your pension pot is in good hands.
Can I Transfer a UK Pension to Another Country?
While you cannot directly transfer a UK pension into a foreign scheme unless it is a QROPS, many people consider transferring their existing pension—such as an old workplace pension or other pension schemes—into an international SIPP or similar pension schemes. An international SIPP allows you to retain your UK pension but manage your UK pension plan globally. This avoids exit fees, maintains UK tax efficiency, and ensures full FCA protection.
What Happens to My SIPP If I Move?
An international SIPP is portable. You can take it with you if you move to France, Australia, Spain or anywhere else in the world. However, local tax laws will affect how you draw income. For example, in France, your SIPP pension income may be subject to French income tax and social charges.
Moving between countries may also expose your pension to currency risk, as fluctuations in exchange rates can impact the value of your retirement savings. Some SIPPs offer currency-hedged options to help manage this risk.
This is where expert advice comes in. Speak to a financial adviser at Harrison Brook to ensure your pension strategy aligns with your current or future location.
Is My Expat SIPP Safe?
SIPPs are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, and your funds are typically held with well-established custodians. But safety also depends on your provider. Check their financial stability, client reviews, and the platform they use.
Avoid any providers offering guaranteed returns or promising unrealistic investment growth. A good SIPP should offer transparency, flexibility and FCA protection.
FAQs – Best International SIPP Providers 2025
Can a non-UK resident open a SIPP? Yes, as long as you have a UK pension to transfer or relevant earnings, you can open a SIPP as a non-resident.
Do SIPPs have international support? Some do. The best international SIPP providers offer client servicing, platform access and drawdown flexibility abroad.
Can I pay tax-free into a SIPP while living abroad? You can pay into a SIPP, but tax relief is generally only available if you have UK-relevant earnings.
What is the difference between a SIPP and a QROPS? A SIPP is UK-based and FCA regulated. A QROPS is based offshore and may be subject to additional HMRC charges, especially post-Brexit.
Are SIPPs safe for expats? Yes, if you use a regulated provider and receive professional advice, SIPPs are a safe and tax-efficient way to manage your pension.
What happens to my UK pension if I move to Australia? Your SIPP remains intact, but income drawn may be taxed locally. Australia does not have a QROPS option, so SIPPs are often the preferred route.
Can I invest in foreign shares in a SIPP? Yes, most SIPPs allow investment in global equities, funds and ETFs.
Can I transfer my UK pension to a SIPP? Yes, you can transfer most UK pensions to a SIPP. However, if you have a final salary or defined benefit pension, there are additional considerations and regulatory requirements before transferring to a SIPP, as these schemes provide a guaranteed income in retirement.
What is a final salary scheme and how does it differ from a SIPP? A final salary scheme is a type of defined benefit pension that provides a guaranteed income in retirement, usually based on your salary at or near the end of your career and your years of service. These schemes, also known as defined benefit pensions, have become less common and are being phased out. In contrast, a SIPP is a defined contribution scheme, where your retirement income depends on the amount contributed and investment performance, rather than a guaranteed amount.
Final Thoughts
The best international SIPP providers in 2025 offer a powerful combination of flexibility, tax efficiency and global access. For British expats, a well-managed SIPP can serve as the cornerstone of a robust retirement strategy, no matter where in the world you call home.
If you are unsure which SIPP is right for you, or how to manage your UK pension from abroad, our experts are here to help.
Take control of your UK pension today
Speak to a Harrison Brook adviser and discover how an international SIPP can work for your expat lifestyle.
