Richard189

I have been living for over six years in SA on various business permits and it will once again need renewing. Is there a limit to how many times I can renew my business permit and why would I want the Spanish inquisition by applying for permanent residency?

If one has a home (primary residence) and business in the UK, how would one's tax position be effected by the different permits, or is there no difference?

Pablo

Richard, the UK tax position is not clear cut. It is not in itself affected by the permit. On tax, there are so many questions specific to one's particular situation to go through that if I were you I'd get expert (paid-for) advice on your specific tax situation vis-a-vis UK tax - from a reputable tax accountancy firm.

ededed

I don't think so, but surely applying for PR is easier? Now you have been here for 5 years you can be naturalized - never need to go through the process again. I have done both and getting PR was much easier than the work/business permits...

Pablo

I agree Ed, but the OP should bear in mind that this change too may affect his worldwide tax position. I have not checked on the lastest SA tax rules so I don't intend to comment on specifics. But as I recall, once you had PR or had become naturalised and thus a SA citizen, you were then taxable on your worldwide income.

Same applies to the UK, of course. Hence the compliations that should be investigated thoroughly - eg, foreign property, rental income, investments and CGT etc.

ededed

Ah, makes sense. I only have debt in the UK (well, a greedy ex-wife) so it doesn't affect me...