Personal Finance Bank accounts

Keeping Things Simple When You Regularly Use Multiple Currencies

Wise

22.09.15 (updated more than 1 year ago)

Read time 2 minutes

The working world has never been as flexible as it is today. Technology allows us to speak to clients and colleagues on the other side of the world, or use any coffee shop with a plug point as a temporary office. If you're working in one country (either remotely or physically) while living in another, we've got some pointers on how to keep control over your finances. So you can make sure that you're not needlessly overpaying, and also playing by the rules.

Looking After Your UK Account From Overseas

Speak to your UK bank so that they know you're not physically in the UK. Ensure you've got online and telephone banking set up. For more comprehensive advice, read our guide to managing your UK bank account from abroad.

Minimise The Pain Of Fluctuating Exchange Rates

If you're getting paid in one currency but operating in another, the exchange rate can be a real headache sometimes. If you're transferring money from the UK to your local bank account, then a sizeable drop in the rate could make a real difference to how much you see on the other side. Always shop around for the best deal; it might not be from your own bank. And make sure you have an account with Wise so you are not paying large bank fees to transfer your money.

Consider Opening A Multi-Currency Account

Especially useful if you're a freelancer, and travelling a lot, these accounts allow you to operate in more than one currency - but with the ease of only having one account number. You also save money on transfers, as the transfer is happening within the bank itself - but there might be a charge for the account itself or for transfers outside the bank. Speak to your bank to find out more.

Make Sure You Understand The Tax Implications

If you're regularly getting income from in another country or currency, even if it is going into a different bank account, it's possible that you will be liable for the tax in both the country you are earning it and the country in which you are resident. Luckily, if you're within the EU you are probably exempt from this through the EU’s double taxation relief scheme. It is definitely something you will need to look into, however.

Two Bank Accounts Or Just One?

If you are staying long-term in another country, then you will definitely want to open a local bank account - just the ATM fees alone when withdrawing money from your UK account when abroad can be crippling. Make sure you choose one that has good English language support if your local language skills aren’t up to deciphering the small print on financial papers yet. If you're looking into retiring abroad, then make sure you take a look at our guides on the pension, taxand the financial matters you will need to think about.

Getting paid from another country?

If you have international clients, you can use Request Money to maximise the amount you receive per invoice. You'll save on fees plus get the real exchange rate.

*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.

This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.

We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.