Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about our process, tax strategy, destinations, and engagement terms.
Process
From initial consultation to execution, most engagements span 6 to 18 months depending on complexity. The strategy phase typically takes 6 to 10 weeks, and execution support continues for 6 to 12 months after that.
We start with a comprehensive financial questionnaire covering income sources, entity structures, asset allocation, family demographics, and lifestyle preferences. All information is treated as strictly confidential.
We are strategic advisors, not a law firm. We design the strategy and coordinate with qualified legal and tax professionals in each jurisdiction to execute it. We manage the process; they handle the legal documentation.
Most advisors sell a specific jurisdiction or program. We are jurisdiction-agnostic. Our models evaluate 40+ countries objectively, and our recommendations are based entirely on your profile, not on referral fees or partnerships.
Tax and Legal
Yes. International tax planning through strategic relocation is entirely legal. We work within the laws of every jurisdiction involved and coordinate with qualified legal professionals to ensure full compliance.
US citizens and long-term residents face a mark-to-market exit tax on unrealized gains above an exemption threshold. We plan for this specifically, often structuring the exit over multiple years to minimize the impact.
US citizens are taxed on worldwide income regardless of residence. If you renounce citizenship, exit tax applies. If you maintain citizenship but establish foreign residency, you may qualify for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion and Foreign Tax Credit.
Controlled Foreign Corporation rules require US shareholders of foreign corporations to report and potentially pay tax on certain types of foreign income. We structure entities to minimize CFC exposure while maintaining compliance.
Destinations
We evaluate your specific financial profile, family situation, and lifestyle preferences against 40+ jurisdictions using our proprietary nine-factor model. The recommendation is data-driven and personalized.
We strongly encourage reconnaissance trips. We can arrange introductions to local contacts, help plan your visit, and provide a structured evaluation framework so you can assess each destination objectively.
Many of our clients maintain property, business interests, and social connections in their home country. We structure the strategy to account for this, ensuring you meet the residency and substance requirements of your new jurisdiction without severing all ties.
Engagement
Engagement fees vary based on complexity. A straightforward single-jurisdiction strategy starts at a different level than a multi-generational, multi-jurisdiction family office engagement. We provide a detailed scope and fee proposal after the initial consultation.
While we do not enforce a strict minimum, our services are designed for individuals and families with $500K+ in annual income or $2M+ in liquid assets. Below these thresholds, the cost of engagement may not justify the tax savings.
Book a confidential strategy session through our contact page. We will discuss your situation at a high level, answer your initial questions, and determine whether Geofire is the right fit for your needs.
Still Have Questions?
Book a confidential strategy session and get answers tailored to your specific situation.