Épisodes

  • Ep 62: Mind The Gaps - 5 Top Cross-Border Pitfalls To Avoid!

    Ep 62: Mind The Gaps - 5 Top Cross-Border Pitfalls To Avoid!
    Jan 28 2026
    We discuss the top five blind spots that foreign nationals often encounter in their cross-border finances.We cover misunderstandings of your individual financial situation, the risks of false economies, the need to report foreign assets, and more. We also touch on cultural adjustment and the importance of being prepared for potential changes in residency/immigration status.TakeawaysDon't assume your financial situation is the same as othersFalse economy - Pay for professional servicesYour cultural background significantly influences financial decisions.Comparing financial systems between countries is just badForeign assets must be reported to avoid severe penalties.Estate planning is essential, regardless of wealth.Understanding U.S. tax obligations is crucial for foreign nationalsPreparation for potential changes in residency is vital. A comprehensive checklist can help plan for cross-border transitions.Chapters 00:00 Identifying Blind Spots in Cross-Border Finances03:00 Understanding False Economies in Financial Decisions05:51 Cultural Adjustments and Financial Planning09:05 The Importance of Reporting Foreign Assets11:55 Estate Planning Essentials for Foreign Nationals15:11 Preparing for Potential Changes in Residency (immigration status)Episode Links and ResourcesEp 45: What Is English For "Streamlined Filing ProceduresEp 34: What Is English For "FBAR"Top 5 Things To Know About FBAR FilingIRS FATCA Thresholds-----------------------------------------------------------------------------The IM Café Finance / Tax Roastery (Store) Is LiveGrab "the Comprehensive Checklist for Foreign Nationals on Work Visas Leaving the U.S." currently on sale, to celebrate our 50th episode.If you'd like to work with us on your finances or taxes, check out the process ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------Be sure to join the conversation by visiting our page: The International Money CafeOr by following us on social media:- LinkedIn; Instagram; Twitter (X); Facebook.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The speakers' views and opinions discussed in this episode should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult your advisor for any legal, cross-border tax, and financial advice.
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    20 min
  • Ep 61: What Is English For "FATCA & FBAR Reporting"?

    Ep 61: What Is English For "FATCA & FBAR Reporting"?
    Jan 14 2026
    We discuss the complexities surrounding FBAR and FATCA, two acronyms that often cause confusion and concern for foreign-born individuals.We explain the importance of compliance with these regulations, the filing requirements for U.S. citizens and U.S. tax residents (includes foreign nationals on work visas), and the potential penalties for non-compliance.And yes, the IRS knows about your overseas assets. We also cover the amnesty programs available for those who have missed reporting their foreign accounts.Takeaways FBAR and FATCA are crucial for foreign-born individuals.Filing the FBAR form is mandatory if accounts exceed $10K.FATCA requires reporting of foreign accounts to the IRS.Banks report account information to the IRS under FATCA.Non-compliance can lead to significant penalties.Amnesty programs exist for those who missed filings.IRS is aware of foreign accounts through intergovernmental agreements.Rectifying non-compliance is possible and essential (But don't DIY)Chapters 00:00 Understanding FBAR and FATCA03:16 The Importance of Compliance07:57 Filing Requirements for U.S. Citizens Abroad12:25 Amnesty Programs and Penalties14:56 Rectifying Non-ComplianceEpisode Links and ResourcesEp 45: What Is English For "Streamlined Filing Procedures"?Ep 34: What Is English For "FBAR"?Top 5 Things To Know About FBAR FilingIRS FATCA Thresholds-----------------------------------------------------------------------------The IM Café Finance / Tax Roastery (Store) Is LiveGrab "the Comprehensive Checklist for Foreign Nationals on Work Visas Leaving the U.S." currently on sale, to celebrate our 50th episode.If you'd like to work with us on your finances or taxes, check out the process ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------Be sure to join the conversation by visiting our page: The International Money CafeOr by following us on social media:- LinkedIn; Instagram; Twitter (X); Facebook.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The speakers' views and opinions discussed in this episode should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult your advisor for any legal, cross-border tax, and financial advice.
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    17 min
  • Ep 60: Trump Accounts: US Expats And Visa Holders?

    Ep 60: Trump Accounts: US Expats And Visa Holders?
    Dec 31 2025
    Trump Accounts. You are a foreign national on a work visa in the U.S., or you're a U.S. expat outside the U.S. Can you use the Trump account?

    We discuss the newly introduced Trump accounts, designed to provide financial support for children born after December 2024. We explore the account's features, including the initial government contribution, investment options, and withdrawal restrictions.

    We also compare them to other investment vehicles, address potential concerns, and highlight the importance of understanding the implications for financial aid and long-term planning, especially when you are here on a non-immigrant visa.

    Chapters
    • 00:00 Introduction to Trump Accounts
    • 02:47 Understanding the Basics of Trump Accounts
    • 06:03 Investment Options and Restrictions
    • 08:57 Distribution Rules and College Savings
    • 12:13 Comparing Trump Accounts with Other Investment Options
    • 15:07 Attractions and Concerns of Trump Accounts
    • 18:04 Final Thoughts and Conclusion
    Episode Links and Resources

    • Ep 20: What Is English For "Custodial Accounts?
    • Ep 17: Busting College Funding Myths For First Gen Kids
    • Trump Accounts Give The Next Gen A Jump Start

    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The IM Café Finance / Tax Roastery (Store) Is Live


    Grab "the Comprehensive Checklist for Foreign Nationals on Work Visas Leaving the U.S." currently on sale, to celebrate our 50th episode.

    If you'd like to work with us on your finances or taxes, check out the process

    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Be sure to join the conversation by visiting our page: The International Money Cafe

    Or by following us on social media:- LinkedIn; Instagram; Twitter (X); Facebook.

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    The speakers' views and opinions discussed in this episode should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult your advisor for any legal, cross-border tax, and financial advice.
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    21 min
  • Ep 59: What is English for "Expired Green Card?"

    Ep 59: What is English for "Expired Green Card?"
    Dec 17 2025
    What are the implications of having an expired green card?. Tax obligations continue to exist for green card holders even after their status has lapsed.

    We discuss the importance of understanding both IRS and USCIS regulations, the process of officially surrendering a green card, and the challenges associated with renewing it while living outside the U.S.

    Takeaways
    • Your green card may have expired, but you remain a green card holder until officially surrendered.
    • You could be subject to exit taxes if you surrender your green card after being a resident for a certain period.
    • If you lose your green card, you must replace it before surrendering it.
    • You cannot renew an expired green card while outside the U.S.
    • An expired green card does not equate to a surrendered green card; there is an official process to follow.
    Chapters
    • 00:00 Understanding Expired Green Cards and Tax Obligations
    • 04:03 The Process of Surrendering a Green Card
    • 07:47 Renewal Challenges and Immigration Considerations


    Episode Links and Resources
    • Ep 30: What Is English For A "Green Card?"
    • USCIS: Replace A Green Card



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    The IM Café Finance / Tax Roastery (Store) Is Live


    Grab "the Comprehensive Checklist for Foreign Nationals on Work Visas Leaving the U.S." currently on sale.

    If you'd like to work with us on your finances or taxes, check out the process


    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Be sure to join the conversation by visiting our page: The International Money Cafe

    Or by following us on social media:- LinkedIn; Instagram; Twitter (X); Facebook.

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    The speakers' views and opinions discussed in this episode should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult your advisor for any legal, cross-border tax, and financial advice.
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    12 min
  • Ep 58: Amazon Visa Holder Laid Off? - Your Financial Game Plan

    Ep 58: Amazon Visa Holder Laid Off? - Your Financial Game Plan
    Dec 3 2025
    This episode addresses the challenges faced by foreign nationals on work visas who have been laid off, particularly from tech companies like Amazon. The hosts provide actionable steps to navigate the emotional and practical aspects of job loss, including immigration considerations, financial assessments, and health insurance options. They emphasize the importance of quick action, networking, and maintaining a positive mindset during this difficult time. Takeaways Dealing with a layoff is emotionally challenging, especially for foreign nationals.It's crucial to act quickly to manage your immigration status after a layoff.Consulting with an immigration lawyer is essential for understanding your options.Consider switching to a B-2 visitor visa to spend more time in the U.S. Financial assessment is critical during the first few weeks after a layoff.Health insurance options like COBRA should be explored immediately.Networking and updating your resume should be immediate priorities.Family support can be vital during a job search.Maintaining a positive mindset is key to overcoming challenges.Explore job opportunities in other countries if returning home isn't an option.Chapters 00:00 Navigating Layoffs for Foreign Nationals10:27 Emergency Mode: Financial Assessment and Job Search13:17 Practical Steps for Job Search16:57 Health Insurance and Immigration Considerations20:51 Empowerment and Moving ForwardEpisode Links & ResourcesAmazon Employees Impacted By the 30K Job Cuts - An Immediate Game PlanRestricted Stock Units On Work VisasEp 54: Challenges Of "Temporary Permance" - Leaving The US On A work VisaEp 19: Mitigating The Threat Of A Work Visa on Your Financial PlanInvesting For Non-Immigrant Visa Holders: Challenges & Tax Implications---------------------------------------------------------------------------------The IM Café Finance / Tax Roastery (Store) Is LiveGrab "the Comprehensive Checklist for Foreign Nationals on Work Visas Leaving the U.S." currently on sale.If you'd like to work with us on your finances or taxes, check out the process ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------Be sure to join the conversation by visiting our page: The International Money CafeOr by following us on social media:- LinkedIn; Instagram; Twitter (X); Facebook.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The speakers' views and opinions discussed in this episode should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult your advisor for any legal, cross-border tax, and financial advice.
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    22 min
  • Ep 57: What Is English For "The New Remittance Tax"?

    Ep 57: What Is English For "The New Remittance Tax"?
    Nov 19 2025
    This conversation discusses the implications of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which introduces a 1% excise tax on remittance transfers starting January 1, 2026. The goal is to raise approximately $10 billion over the next decade.

    We explain how this tax will affect American families sending money abroad, the collection process, and planning strategies to mitigate the impact of this new tax.

    We emphasize the importance of understanding the tax's application and exploring alternative methods for sending money to avoid additional fees.

    We have a new checklist to help you plan for the new tax and hopefully avoid it.

    Takeaways
    • A 1% tax on international money transfers will take effect in 2026.
    • The tax applies to all remittance transfers by US citizens, residents, and foreign nationals on work visas – (Everyone)
    • Providers will collect the tax on behalf of the IRS.
    • Planning for the tax is essential to managing costs effectively.
    • Some transfers may be exempt, based on the institutions used or the methodology.
    • A checklist is available to help plan for the new tax.

    Grab the Remittance Checklist here

    Chapters
    • 00:00 Introduction to the New Tax on Remittances
    • 02:45 Understanding the Impact of the Tax
    • 05:56 Planning for the New Remittance Tax

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    The IM Café Finance / Tax Roastery (Store) Is Live


    Grab "the Comprehensive Checklist for Foreign Nationals on Work Visas Leaving the U.S." currently on sale, to celebrate our 50th episode.

    If you'd like to work with us on your finances or taxes, check out the process


    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Be sure to join the conversation by visiting our page: The International Money Cafe

    Or by following us on social media:- LinkedIn; Instagram; Twitter (X); Facebook.

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    The speakers' views and opinions discussed in this episode should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult your advisor for any legal, cross-border tax, and financial advice.
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    8 min
  • Ep 56: Financial Planning Challenges In The Cross-border Space

    Ep 56: Financial Planning Challenges In The Cross-border Space
    Nov 5 2025
    I was a guest on the Smarter Planner Podcast hosted by Belle. The conversation was so engaging that, with her permission, we're sharing it with you, our audience.

    In this guest episode, Belle Osvath, CFP, and I discuss the financial challenges immigrants and foreign nationals on work visas face in the U.S., including navigating different financial systems, tax implications, and retirement planning.

    I share insights on the importance of early financial education for immigrants and the need for collaboration among financial advisors.

    The conversation also touches on the impact of recent policy changes on immigrants.

    Takeaways
    • Financial planning for immigrants requires understanding their cultural backgrounds.
    • Many immigrants and planners are unaware of the complexities of the U.S. financial system.
    • Early financial education can greatly benefit immigrants before they arrive in the U.S.
    • Collaboration among financial advisors is crucial for effective cross-border planning.
    • ax implications can vary significantly based on the client's home country.
    • Retirement accounts in the U.S. may not align with foreign tax codes.
    • Policy changes can create anxiety and uncertainty for immigrant clients - be prepared to deal with it.


    Chapters
    • 00:00 Understanding the Immigrant Financial Landscape
    • 06:02 Navigating Financial Planning for Non-Immigrants
    • 12:04 Cross-Border Financial Challenges
    • 17:52 Retirement Planning and Tax Implications
    • 23:49 The Impact of Policy Changes on Immigrants
    • 25:59 The International Money Cafe Podcast

    Episode Links and Resources

    • Michael Kitces - Navigating Challenges When Investing For Work visa Holders
    • Ep 43: How To Find A Great Cross-border Financial Planner

    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The IM Café Finance / Tax Roastery (Store) Is Live


    Grab "the Comprehensive Checklist for Foreign Nationals on Work Visas Leaving the U.S." currently on sale, to celebrate our 50th episode.

    If you'd like to work with us on your finances or taxes, check out the process


    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Be sure to join the conversation by visiting our page: The International Money Cafe

    Or by following us on social media:- LinkedIn; Instagram; Twitter (X); Facebook.

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    The speakers' views and opinions discussed in this episode should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult your advisor for any legal, cross-border tax, and financial advice.
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    28 min
  • Ep 55: What Is English For "Is It A PFIC Or Not?"

    Ep 55: What Is English For "Is It A PFIC Or Not?"
    Oct 22 2025
    In this conversation, we discuss the complexities of Passive Foreign Investment Companies (PFICs) and their implications for U.S. tax residents with overseas investments.

    We explain what PFICs are, the tax burdens associated with them, and provide practical steps for identifying whether a foreign fund qualifies as a PFIC.

    The discussion emphasizes the importance of consulting tax professionals and understanding the tax implications of foreign investments.

    Takeaways
    • PFIC stands for Passive Foreign Investment Company.
    • PFICs are legally permissible for investment, but they come with tax burdens.
    • Growth in foreign mutual funds is taxed at income tax rates.
    • IRS Form 8621 can take up to 25 hours to complete.
    • Foreign mutual funds and retirement accounts can be PFICs.
    • Three ways of identifying if a foreign fund is a PFIC or not.

    Chapters
    • 00:00 Understanding PFICs: The Basics
    • 02:59 The Tax Implications of PFICs
    • 05:28 Identifying PFICs: Practical Steps

    Episode Links and Resources

    • Ep 26: What Is English For "PFIC?"
    • Ep 42: What is English For "Gift & Estate Taxes?"


    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The IM Café Finance / Tax Roastery (Store) Is Live


    Grab "the Comprehensive Checklist for Foreign Nationals on Work Visas Leaving the U.S." currently on sale, to celebrate our 50th episode.

    If you'd like to work with us on your finances or taxes, check out the process


    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Be sure to join the conversation by visiting our page: The International Money Cafe

    Or by following us on social media:- LinkedIn; Instagram; Twitter (X); Facebook.

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    The speakers' views and opinions discussed in this episode should not be considered financial, tax, or legal advice. Consult your advisor for any legal, cross-border tax, and financial advice.
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    9 min