GTN Mobility Tax Blog

The modern workforce is a mobile one and has expanded beyond the traditional short- or long-term assignment. Today, mobility includes a variety of work arrangements such as remote and hybrid work, as well as short-term business travel. This shift has provided greater flexibility in how and where employees work, allowing organizations to access a wider talent pool and operate more efficiently across different locations. However, with increased flexibility comes the challenge of navigating complex reporting and filing requirements to avoid financial, legal, and reputational risks.

On 30 October 2024, Chancelor Rachel Reeves presented the UK budget, which included significant changes to the tax regime for non-domiciled individuals. Specifically, the budget proposed the abolishment of non-domicile status and creation of a new residence-based test known as the Foreign Income and Gains Regime (FIG). As outlined, the new FIG regime will be effective 6 April 2025, greatly impacting the tax situations for individuals moving to or from the UK.

Global mobility programs are a win-win solution for both your company and your mobile employees.

In today’s rapidly evolving global economy, technology has made it easier to work across different time zones and borders. This connectivity allows seamless collaboration with colleagues worldwide. However, it also means that tax and immigration authorities can more effectively monitor and enforce compliance.

In our globalized business landscape, international assignments remain a cornerstone of talent management strategies. And the responsibility for HR and mobility program professionals to orchestrate seamless transitions for employees stepping into roles on foreign soil is pivotal. The success of these endeavors hinges on a multitude of factors, including strategic planning, resource allocation, and policy implementation.

As companies adjust to the new reality of work and reassess their mobility programs, there is an opportunity for them to examine the costs associated with running their mobility programs and explore innovative solutions. We are witnessing a renewed interest in mobility as companies seek to adopt the best structure for their business and employees. While non-traditional forms such as remote and hybrid work are becoming more prevalent, there is also renewed interest in both short and long-term assignments. 

Whether you manage business travelers, short-term international employees, or remote workers, you have no doubt heard about the “183-day rule.” Both globally and domestically, many tax jurisdictions expect an employer (as well as the employee) to track and report non-resident business travel. However, simply applying a “183-day” threshold does not always work to ensure tax compliance. Here we will take a deeper dive into the impact of income tax treaties on the tax cost of business travel, short-term assignments, and remote work scenarios.