Expat Tax Tip #10 – Don’t Forget About Exit Taxes

Some countries impose an “exit tax” when you leave and give up tax residency. This is essentially a capital gains tax on your unrealised gains at the time of departure.

• Canada calls this a “departure tax” — it deems you to have sold most of your assets at fair market value on the day before you become a non-resident.
• Australia doesn’t have a formal “exit tax,” but if you hold taxable Australian property when you cease residency, special rules apply (you may defer or pay upfront).

📗 Learn the strategies to manage these in my Canada Expat Tax Guide and Australia Expat Tax Guide.

🔗 External references: CRA Departure Tax | ATO Capital Gains for Foreign Residents

👉 Tip: Before moving, review your investment portfolio — selling or restructuring assets before exit can sometimes save big tax bills.