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MyExpatSIPP Review

MyExpatSIPP is an online SIPP or Self-Invested Personal Pension provider aimed at expatriates and non-UK residents.

It is a low-cost, fully online option that targets a simple way for expats to manage or consolidate UK pensions from abroad.

However, some concerns have been raised about its past business links and limitations in certain jurisdictions, meaning it suits cost-conscious, DIY expat investors but may not be ideal for those wanting full-service financial advice.

In this MyExpatSIPP review, we’ll look at how the platform works, its login and account features, fees, pension safety measures, common complaints, and the main pros and cons.

My contact details are hello@adamfayed.com and WhatsApp +44-7393-450-837 if you have any questions.

The information in this article is for general guidance only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice, and is not a recommendation or solicitation to invest. Some facts may have changed since the time of writing.

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What is MyExpatSIPP?

MyExpatSIPP was founded in 2017 to help people who built up UK pensions before moving abroad manage those pensions online.

Their online platform gives clients a digital dashboard showing pension balances, contributions, withdrawals, and investment performance.

For example, users can view the current value of the SIPP and see a chart of value vs. net amount invested over time.

The interface also allows placing trade instructions and viewing transaction history.

Key MES features include:

  • The ability to transfer pensions into a single online SIPP account, giving full control over how the pension is invested.
  • Access to pension funds from age 55 with flexible withdrawal options including lump sums, regular income, or a combination, with payments possible to non-UK bank accounts.
  • A broad selection of investment options such as Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), Investment Trusts, Unit Trusts & OEICs (mutual funds), and ready-made portfolios, allowing for diversified investment management.
  • Choice of base currency for the account, investment currencies, and pension payments.
  • Offering guidance on pension management and residency implications for expats.

MyExpatSIPP login

MyExpatSIPP provides an online login portal for clients. The website splits users into two groups: those who joined after 31 July 2024 and those who joined before 1 August 2024.

New clients post‑July 2024 are directed to a new MyExpatSIPP platform, while legacy clients use the older portal.

In addition, there is a separate MyExpatSIPP login link for accounts held on the Fundment platform.

Each portal requires the client’s credentials. In practice, an expat user logs in through the appropriate link on the MyExpatSIPP site, which then opens the secure dashboard for that client’s SIPP account.

MyExpatSIPP fees

MyExpatSIPP charges a fixed annual fee of at least £360 per year plus a percentage of assets. There are two plans:

  • MES Essentials SIPP: £360 per year, plus 0.30% per annum of the total balance. This plan requires a minimum SIPP value of £35,000 and invests in a single default fund (the Vanguard 60–70% Equity Fund).
  • MES SIPP (full SIPP): £435 per year, plus 0.35% on balances up to £1 million, and 0.20% on any portion above £1 million. This plan requires a £50,000 minimum and allows a full range of investments (ETFs, trusts, mutual funds, multi-currency investments, cash, etc.).

The company said that these fees are simple and transparent with no hidden commissions.

Is My SIPP pension safe?

MyExpatSIPP highlights several safety features. It is directly authorised and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Because of this UK regulation, UK-resident clients are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

Client assets are held in ring-fenced accounts. The platform uses an independent custodian to hold all money and investments.

MyExpatSIPP complaints

User reviews of MyExpatSIPP are generally positive but note a few issues.

Overall, the positive feedback highlights simplicity of the process, ongoing support, and good communication.

On the other hand, complaints are mostly concentrated in operational areas (timing, third-party admin, platform migration and communication).

Most negative reviews describe frustration at delayed timelines rather than allegations of mishandled client assets or fraud.  

Aside from that one Trustpilot complaint about slow payout, most reviewers report smooth transfers and helpful support.

The company frequently responds publicly to explain delays and remediation, which suggests many problems stem from complex back-office or third-party failures rather than systemic custody or regulatory issues.

Pros and cons of MyExpatSIPP

Pros

  • UK-regulated. FCA-regulated platform and published fee schedule.
  • Custody segregation & established custodians. Client assets are held by an independent custodian.
  • Transparent, published fees. Clear annual + percentage fee schedules make pricing easy to model.
  • Expat focus. Make it easy for non-UK residents to onboard and track pensions.
  • Positive customer service reports. Generally positive customer service on transfers and account management in public reviews.

Cons

  • Processing delays possible. Withdrawals, transfers or admin tasks can be delayed, particularly when third-party administrators or legacy providers are involved.
  • Fees relative to very small accounts. The fixed annual fee means the effective % cost is higher for small balances; better for medium-to-large SIPPs.
  • Investment risk remains. Platform safety ≠ investment performance; clients bear market risk.
  • Jurisdictional complexity. Expats must still consider their tax/residency rules at home; the SIPP does not automatically simplify foreign tax treatment.
  • Third-party referral risk. The alleged historical introductions to Hartley Pensions (now in administration) highlight that even a regulated front-end can be harmed by third-party failings. That risk must be probed for each historical transfer.
  • Reputational questions. Links, even historical, to a scandal will increase scrutiny from clients and regulators and could slow future transfers or payouts if legacy cases remain unresolved.
  • Not a personal financial adviser. While they provide platform and admin support, complex tax or cross-border planning often requires an adviser in the client’s country of residence.

FAQS

Can I open a SIPP if I live abroad?

Yes, usually, but with conditions.

Most SIPP providers will let you open one while abroad, if you have UK earnings or you’re still considered UK-resident for tax purposes.

If you are non-UK resident and have no UK relevant earnings, your ability to open a new SIPP is limited. Some providers may accept you for transfers of existing UK pensions.

Can I keep my SIPP if I move abroad?

Yes. You do not need to close or transfer your SIPP if you move overseas. Your SIPP remains a UK-registered pension, and you can leave it invested.

Is the SIPP pension worth it?

Yes, if you want control and have enough assets to justify the admin and investment risks.

For expats, SIPPs are often attractive because they can consolidate scattered UK pensions into one account, keep control over investment choices, and still potentially benefit from tax efficiency.

Is my money safe in a SIPP?

SIPPs are regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority. Cash and investments held in a SIPP are usually protected up to £85,000 per provider under FSCS if the provider fails.

Your capital is invested, so market risk remains.

What are the downsides of a SIPP?

The downsides of a SIPP are that it can be costly due to platform and trading fees, complex to manage since you make your own investment decisions, risky if you choose unsuitable or unregulated investments, and limited in tax relief if you live abroad.

Added potential issues are currency exchange and cross-border taxation.

What is the safe withdrawal rate for SIPP?

The safe withdrawal rate (SWR) is the % you can sustainably withdraw each year without depleting your pot too quickly.

For many expats, planning around 3%–3.5% is prudent, with flexibility for market downturns.

Your personal safe rate depends on investment mix, longevity, taxes, etc.

Pained by financial indecision?

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Adam is an internationally recognised author on financial matters with over 830million answer views on Quora, a widely sold book on Amazon, and a contributor on Forbes.

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