QROPS - Pension Transfer Scheme ( UK)

What is QROPS?
A QROPS (Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme) is a pension transfer scheme that is recognised by HMRC and meets certain conditions and standards equivalent to a UK pension. Therefore, any UK pension can be readily transferred into an overseas scheme, provided that the overseas scheme is registered with HMRC as a QROPS. The rising profile of this scheme is a consequence of UK pension rules introduced by HMRC on 6th April 2006. The scheme must also meet the requirements of the jurisdiction in which it is domiciled.

Is a QROPS suitable for me?
A pension transfer is suitable for you if you have a UK pension, have left the UK, plan to leave, or are a resident but not UK domiciled. Obtaining professional financial advice is vital to ensure that you do comply with the rules.

Why should I choose a QROPS?
Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme is an overseas pension scheme into which UK pension rights can be transferred. However, QROPS also provides control over where your pension fund is invested. The scheme also allows you to consolidate a number of pensions into one QROPS and does not require you to buy into an annuity.More importantly, it allows you to leave the remaining fund to your beneficiaries without any deduction of UK tax upon death.

What are the key benefits of a QROPS?

• Annuity: A QROPS does not force you to buy an annuity
• Funds passed to beneficiaries in full after death: after completing 5 full tax years of non UK Tax residency, your pension will no longer be liable to UK income tax or death charges of up to 55%
• Flexible currency choice: your assets within your QROPS can be paid to you in a currency other than sterling, thus mitigating FX costs
• Up to 30% pension commencement lump sum
• Your pension income can be paid gross, depending on the jurisdiction used
• Secure jurisdictions
• Investment flexibility
• Transparent charges
• Greater investment freedom
• Inheritance benefits
• Pensions can be consolidated in one
• Free from UK lump sum death benefit charge

Transfer your UK Pension to QROPS.

Anyone who has worked in the UK and now have moved to India or any other country can transfer their UK Pension funds to QROPS (Qualifying Recognized Overseas Pension Scheme).

You can transfer Civil Services Pension / NHS Pensions / Private Pension Schemes to QROPS.

What are the advantages of doing a QROPS.
Ø No UK Tax liability.
Ø Early retirement i.e. before 60 years.
Ø Full Pension for Spouse and Capital Refund for Children/Nominee.
Ø No inheritance tax/death tax of 55%.
Ø Transparency on your investment and charges.

QROPS options for Indians who have worked in the UK and for British Expats :-

Overseas QROPS :-
QROPS Jurisdictions : Gibraltar, Malta, Isle of Man.
Trustee Options : STM, Sovereign, Castle, Momentum.
Investment Options : Skandia International, Royal London 360, Cornhill Management.

Indian QROPS :-
SBI Life – Annuity Plus.
HDFC Life – Pension Plans.
ING Vysya – Golden Years Retirement Plan.