UK non-dom is gone - where crypto money is going

The UK abolished the centuries-old non-domicile regime in April 2025, replacing remittance-basis treatment with a residence-based system. For internationally mobile crypto and trading wealth, the calculus changed overnight. Here is what happened and where people are relocating.

What actually changed

From 6 April 2025 the remittance basis ended. Long-term UK residents are now taxed on worldwide income and gains, with a time-limited "Foreign Income and Gains" relief for new arrivals (the first four years of UK residence) replacing the old domicile test. The protected-settlement regime for offshore trusts was also curtailed. Net effect: staying in the UK long-term now means worldwide tax exposure, including on crypto.

Why crypto holders feel it most

Crypto wealth is mobile and often large relative to income. Under the old regime some structured around remittance; that lever is gone. Combined with the cut to the capital-gains allowance and higher CGT rates, a UK-resident holder now faces a clear bill whenever they realise - and HMRC receives exchange data.

Where people are going

The common destinations for crypto/trading wealth are the UAE (Dubai), and to a lesser extent Portugal, Singapore, Italy and Switzerland. The UAE stands out for a flat 0% personal and capital-gains tax, residency you can earn by buying property, and a market that openly accepts crypto. See our side-by-side comparison.

Doing it properly

Leaving the UK tax net is not a paper move - you must genuinely become non-UK resident under the Statutory Residence Test and watch the temporary non-residence rules. Read leaving the UK before selling crypto and the UK tax + Dubai guide. Take specialist advice.

FAQ

Informational only - not financial, tax, or legal advice. Tax and residency outcomes depend on your personal circumstances and current country of residence. Take qualified professional advice before acting. socialtickers may earn a referral fee from property enquiries.