This calculator provides an estimation for illustrative purposes only. Actual pension outcomes can vary significantly due to market performance, specific pension scheme rules, tax law changes, and annuity rates at the time of retirement.
Pension Origin & Tax-Free Lump Sum Rules:
- Irish Pensions: The maximum tax-free lump sum is generally 25% of the fund value, capped at โฌ200,000 as per Irish law.
- UK Pensions: While typically 25% of the fund value can be taken tax-free as a Pension Commencement Lump Sum (PCLS), in the UK, the total tax-free cash an individual can take across all their pensions is subject to a lifetime allowance called the Lump Sum Allowance (LSA). For most people, this is ยฃ268,275 (approximately โฌ315,000-โฌ320,000, depending on exchange rates). This calculator's UK option does not apply this LSA cap to the 25% calculation, assuming you are modeling a single pension pot where 25% is applicable without hitting your overall lifetime allowance. Always consult a UK financial advisor for definitive advice on UK pension rules and allowances.
- Other Region Pensions: For pensions originating from other regions, the minimum age to start withdrawing, and the rules regarding tax-free lump sums, will be governed by the laws of that specific country or the rules of your pension scheme. It is crucial to consult a local financial advisor or tax specialist in the country where your pension originated for accurate information on these rules.
Fund Growth & Longevity Warning: The "Estimated Annual Fund Growth Rate" is an assumption. The "Years Fund Could Last" calculation assumes that you withdraw a fixed amount each year (calculated either by percentage of initial fund or direct amount) and that the remaining fund continues to grow at the specified annual growth rate. This is a simplification; actual investment performance, inflation, and varying withdrawal needs will significantly impact how long your fund lasts. For more detailed projections, professional advice is essential.
Tax Calculation Warning: Tax calculations are based on current known rules for foreign pensions in Cyprus and include GESY. However, tax laws are complex and subject to change. This calculator does not account for personal tax credits, other income sources, or specific nuances of double taxation treaties. The actual tax you pay will likely be different.
Always consult a qualified financial advisor or tax specialist in Ireland, the UK, or Cyprus for personalized and accurate pension and tax advice based on your individual circumstances.
When you become a tax resident in Cyprus, you have two main options for how your foreign pension income is taxed:
- Flat Rate Tax (5%):
- Your entire foreign pension income is taxed at a flat rate of 5%.
- The first โฌ3,420 of your annual pension income is tax-exempt. Tax applies only to the amount exceeding this threshold.
- This option is generally beneficial if your annual foreign pension income is high, as it caps your tax rate at 5%.
- Normal Income Tax Rates (Progressive):
- Your foreign pension income is added to your other taxable income (if any) and is subject to Cyprus's progressive personal income tax rates.
- The first โฌ19,500 of your total annual income is tax-exempt.
- Rates then progress from 20% to 35% for higher income brackets (as shown in the progressive tax info section above).
- This option might be more favorable if your total annual pension income (and other income) is relatively low, specifically if it falls largely within the โฌ0-โฌ19,500 tax-free bracket or the lower progressive brackets.
Which to Choose?
- You can elect to apply either of these two options each tax year. This flexibility allows you to choose the most beneficial method based on your total income for that year.
- Generally, if your annual foreign pension income (combined with other income) is below approximately โฌ28,000 - โฌ30,000, the progressive tax rates might result in a lower overall tax burden due to the higher initial tax-free threshold (โฌ19,500).
- If your annual foreign pension income is significantly above โฌ30,000, the 5% flat rate (above โฌ3,420) often becomes more advantageous.
- GESY Contribution: Regardless of which income tax option you choose, a General Healthcare System (GESY) contribution of 2.65% is applied to your foreign pension income, up to an annual cap of โฌ180,000.
For official and up-to-date information, please refer to the Cyprus Tax Department website or consult with a local tax professional: