Banking, taxes & getting paid abroad

Build a three-card system

• A multi-currency account (Wise or Revolut) to hold and convert money at real exchange rates.
• A home-country card with no foreign transaction fees for big purchases and travel protections.
• A debit card that refunds ATM fees (Charles Schwab is a favorite for Americans).
• Keep one backup card in a separate bag at all times.

Getting paid

Freelancers: invoice in your clients' currency and receive it into local account details in Wise. Employees: ask HR whether your company uses an employer of record such as Deel or Remote before you move. Some employers can't legally pay you in certain countries.

Taxes (the part nobody tells you)

• US citizens file US taxes every year, wherever they live. The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion can exclude a large chunk of earned income if you qualify.
• If your foreign accounts total more than $10,000 at any point, you likely need to file an FBAR.
• Spending 183+ days in one country often makes you a tax resident there.
• Get a professional. One hour with an expat tax specialist saves thousands.