🎙️ Everything you need to know to avoid headaches with the IRS — PodSpeakers with Luciana Oliveira

🎙️ Everything you need to know to avoid headaches with the IRS — PodSpeakers with Luciana Oliveira

Are you a Brazilian living in Europe, providing services to companies in other countries, or have questions about international taxation? Then this episode of PodSpeakers is for you! We welcome expert accountant Luciana Oliveira , owner of Atrium Global Consulting , to debunk all the myths and provide valuable guidance on double taxation, tax agreements, social security contributions, and tax regularization between Brazil and Europe.

🚩 How does double taxation work?

One of the biggest worries for those living abroad is the fear of being taxed twice — in Brazil and in the country where they reside. Luciana explains it in a simple and practical way:

"The double taxation agreement serves to prevent the same income from being taxed both in Brazil and abroad. Each country has its own rules, and it is essential to understand where to declare and how to provide proof."

She warns that, without the agreement, the risk of paying tax twice is real — and can lead to headaches, fines, and financial losses. Therefore, knowing which countries have agreements in place is essential.

🌍 And what happens when there's no agreement?

When there is no double taxation agreement, taxpayers need to be even more vigilant. In these cases, it is common to be required to declare and pay taxes in both countries. Luciana advises:

"In these cases, it's worth seeking expert advice to avoid fines and future problems. Ignorance of the law does not exempt the taxpayer from their obligations."

📝 Declaration of Definitive Departure from Brazil: avoid future problems

One of the most important steps for Brazilians who decide to live abroad is filing a Final Departure Declaration with the Federal Revenue Service. Luciana warned that many immigrants skip this step—and end up facing headaches with tax assessments and notices.

"Without a final departure declaration, the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service considers you to still be a tax resident in Brazil and may require you to file an annual income tax return as usual, even if you are already living abroad."

How does it work?

• The declaration must be made as soon as you leave the country to live abroad permanently or for more than 12 consecutive months.

• You need to inform the bank, financial institutions, and official bodies about the change in status.

• This avoids double taxation and the collection of taxes on income you earned outside of Brazil.

Luciana's tip:

"Seek expert advice and don't delay! Regularizing your tax situation is an essential step to have peace of mind and avoid unpleasant surprises."

🔄 Difference between a double taxation agreement and a social security agreement

Another essential point addressed by Luciana is the difference between tax and social security agreements. Many people confuse them—but they have distinct objectives:

• Double taxation agreement: Avoids double taxation on income.

• Pension agreement: Ensures that contribution time in one country can be counted in another for retirement purposes.

"These are different benefits. One protects your finances now, the other guarantees rights for the future."

🚨 Precautions to avoid falling into the tax trap

The Brazilian Federal Revenue Service is becoming increasingly digital and integrated with international tax authorities. Therefore, Luciana highlights the importance of:

• Keep all documentation organized.

• File the declaration on time.

• Consult professionals who understand the subject.

"Don't wait for a headache to appear. Act preventively, seek information, and rely on specialists."

💡 Practical tips for immigrants and entrepreneurs

• Always consult the list of countries with double taxation agreements with Brazil.

• If you provide services in more than one country, seek personalized guidance.

• Find out about your tax and social security situation before moving to another country or expanding your business.

• Pay attention to the deadlines for filing and paying taxes in each country.

👩💼 Who is Luciana Oliveira?

Luciana is an international accountant and owner of Atrium Global Consulting, specializing in tax planning for Brazilians living and doing business abroad. With extensive experience and a strong teaching style, she stands out for translating complex topics into clear and practical guidance for Brazilians worldwide.

🎧 Watch now

This episode is an essential guide for anyone who wants peace of mind with the Internal Revenue Service, financial security, and clarity about their rights and responsibilities.

Watch it here on YouTube.

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