Expat Tax Case Studies & Client Success Stories

On this page, we provide you with some real-life tax issues many of our expat clients are facing. The summaries presented are based on real cases where we have assisted our clients to answer their individual questions and provided tailored solutions in their tax declarations. Our clients have experienced tax compliance, great and fast customer service combined with optimal tax savings.

Real-World International Tax Challenges We Solve

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Case 1 – Moving to Germany During the Tax Year

International relocation tax planning

Expat Tax Challenge

“I’m planning to move to Germany this year, how will my income be taxed?”

How to Apply German and International Tax Rules

Most of our clients move to Germany during the calendar year and earn a portion of their income in their home country before starting work in Germany. If a double taxation agreement exists, Germany will not tax income earned abroad. However, Germany applies income tax progression, meaning the tax rate is determined based on worldwide income.

Our Tailored Tax Planning Solution

We carefully review our client’s situation, allocate income correctly under the relevant tax treaty, and handle proper reporting and communication with the German tax office.

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Case 2 – Rental Income from a Family Home Abroad

International property taxation

Expat Tax Challenge

“I will stay in Germany temporarily and want to rent out my house in my home country during my assignment. What are the tax implications?”

How to Apply German and International Tax Rules

Rental income must be reported in the German tax return due to the worldwide income principle. The income must be calculated according to German tax rules.

Our Tailored Tax Planning Solution

We analyze how foreign rental income must be reported and whether adjustments are required to comply with German tax regulations.

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Case 3 – Taxation of RSUs / Stock Options

Equity compensation taxation

Expat Tax Challenge

“How does the taxation of RSU / stock options work in Germany if I received the award while working abroad?”

How to Apply German and International Tax Rules

RSUs and stock options are generally taxed as employment income during the vesting period. If part of the vesting period falls in Germany, income is allocated based on working days.

Our Tailored Tax Planning Solution

We review plan documents, vesting schedules, and allocate income correctly between jurisdictions to ensure compliant and optimized taxation.

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Case 4 – German-US Cross-Border Income Taxation

German–US cross-border taxation

Expat Tax Challenge

As an American citizen living and working in Germany, I have employment income from both German and American employers. How does the German tax office interpret the German-American tax treaty?

How to Apply German and International Tax Rules

Once tax resident in Germany, worldwide income is taxable. Certain exemptions may apply under the Germany-US Double Taxation Agreement. Proof of taxation in the US is required.

Our Tailored Tax Planning Solution

We assess whether Article 15(2) of the DTA applies, review employer structure, presence in Germany, and days of physical presence to exclude income from German taxation where possible.

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