Interactive Investor SIPP Transfers for Non-UK Residents — What You Need to Know
Why You Can No Longer Open or Transfer an ii SIPP from Overseas
Interactive Investor (ii), one of the UK’s largest investment platforms, has now closed its doors to non-UK residents for new SIPP accounts and pension transfers.
If you already hold an ii SIPP and later move abroad, you can keep your existing account, but you’ll face an additional monthly overseas service charge.
However, new SIPP applications and inbound pension transfers are no longer permitted if your tax residency is outside the UK, including in the EU, US, Middle East, or Asia.
This move aligns with similar restrictions introduced by AJ Bell, Fidelity, and Hargreaves Lansdown, marking a significant shift in how UK platforms treat international clients.
🔍 Key Points at a Glance
| Situation | Can You Open or Transfer to ii SIPP? | Your Next Step |
| Already abroad (non-UK resident) | ❌ No | Explore an International SIPP or QROPS |
| Moving abroad soon | ❌ Transfers blocked once non-resident | Transfer before departure or to an International SIPP |
| Already with ii | ✅ Yes | Retain your SIPP but pay the Overseas Service Fee |
| Returning to the UK | 🚫 Wait until UK tax resident again | Resume contributions once back in the UK |
Why Platforms Like ii Restrict Overseas Clients
Post-Brexit, UK investment platforms lost their MiFID II and IDD passporting rights, preventing them from legally servicing or marketing to EEA-based clients.
To reduce regulatory and liability risk, most UK platforms, including ii, have tightened their residency requirements, effectively limiting access to UK residents only.
For expatriates, this signals the end of the “DIY SIPP” era. If you live abroad, you now need a compliant International SIPP structure that allows you to remain under FCA oversight while receiving advice regulated in your country of residence.
International SIPP — The Compliant Alternative
An International SIPP lets you maintain your pension under UK regulation while living overseas. It offers flexibility, cross-border compliance, and global investment access, without the restrictions UK retail platforms impose on non-residents.
| Feature | Interactive Investor (ii) SIPP | International SIPP (via Cameron James) |
| Accepts non-UK residents | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Platform fee | From £12.99 | 0.10 – 0.35 % (or fixed fee options) |
| Overseas client charge | £4.99 / month | Included within trustee/admin fee |
| Trustee / admin fee | Included | £150 – £250 p.a. typical |
| Investment range | Broad, but UK-only servicing | Global — including US & EEA markets |
| Non-UK beneficiary options | Lump Sum or Transfer Out | Full survivors’ drawdown & lump-sum access |
| FX & currency | GBP only | Multi-currency investing & withdrawals |
| Bank account options | UK accounts only | Global bank withdrawals allowed |
| Adviser support | DIY only | Regulated advice in your country of residence |
How Cameron James Helps (Step-by-Step)
- Residency & Regulatory Review
We confirm your tax residency and assess which UK & international trustees will accept your case. - Platform & Trustee Selection
We identify the most cost-efficient International SIPP providers suitable for your jurisdiction. - Portfolio Construction
Our ETF-based, globally diversified portfolios follow the Cameron James Investment Philosophy, focused on cost, transparency, and long-term growth. - Transfer & Paperwork Management
We handle transfer forms, LOAs, and HMRC notifications directly with your current and new providers. - Ongoing Oversight
Continuous, fee-based financial planning including rebalancing, IHT planning,cash flow modelling, and currency risk management.
Next Steps — Secure a Compliant Pension Solution
If you’ve been rejected by Interactive Investor, AJ Bell, or Hargreaves Lansdown for being non-resident, we can help you transition smoothly to a compliant structure.
✅ Review your existing ii or UK pensions
✅ Select a fully compliant International SIPP provider
✅ Build a low-cost, globally diversified ETF portfolio
✅ Stay compliant with FCA and local regulations
Book a free consultation today to discuss your transfer options and secure your retirement strategy, wherever you live.
👉 Schedule your free consultation
📥 Prefer to start with email? Reach us at info@cjfinance.co.uk
FAQs — ii SIPP and Non-UK Residents
Can I keep my ii SIPP if I move abroad?
Yes, but you’ll pay an extra overseas fee and cannot make new contributions or transfers in.
Can I transfer a UK pension into ii from abroad?
No. ii no longer accepts transfers from non-UK residents.
What are my alternatives?
A UK-regulated International SIPP lets you consolidate and manage your pensions globally under FCA oversight.
Will I be taxed when transferring?
No. Transfers between UK-registered schemes are tax-free, though withdrawal taxation depends on your country’s Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) with the UK.