Tax Guide for Americans in Qatar
Qatar is a popular Middle Eastern choice among expatriates from all around the world. It is a country without income tax, but although Qatar does not have taxes, that doesn’t mean you don’t! As a US expat, you remain responsible for United States expat taxes. This article will help clarify your obligations.
US Expat Taxes - Qatar
US citizens, as well as permanent residents, are required to file expatriate tax returns with the federal government every year regardless of where they reside. Along with the typical tax return for income, many people are also required to submit a return disclosing assets which are held in bank accounts in foreign countries by using FinCEN Form 114 (FBAR).
The United States is among only a few governments who tax international income earned by their citizens, as well as permanent residents, residing overseas. There are, however, some provisions that help protect from possible double taxation. These include:
- The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion. This exclusion allows one to exclude USD 103,900 (this amount is for 2018 taxes) in earned income from foreign sources.
- A tax credit allowing tax on remaining income to be reduced based on the taxes paid to foreign governments.
- An exclusion on foreign housing that allows additional exclusions from their income for some amounts paid to cover household expenses due to living abroad.
Preparing a quality tax return following proper tax planning should allow one to use these, as well as other strategies, in minimizing or possibly eliminating tax liability. Note that in most cases the filing of a tax return is required, even if taxes are not owed.
Tax Rates for Qatar
One of the biggest reasons expats are drawn to Qatar is the lack of an income tax on employees. There isn’t a requirement to file tax returns with the PRTD (Public Revenues & Taxes Department) unless a person conducts business in Qatar. Businesses pay a 10% flat tax on any income from capital gains or activities.
Who Qualifies as a Qatari Resident?
To qualify as a resident in Qatar, a taxpayer must meet at least one of these requirements:
- Present physically in Qatar a minimum of 183 days (these need not be consecutive) during any twelve month period
- Have a home in the country of Qatar
- Have an interest in the country of Qatar
When Are Qatar Taxes Due?
Qatar has the same tax year as the United States - January 1st thru December 31st. But, since there is not an income tax levied on earnings received from employment, no obligation for filing tax returns exists. If a person has business income from Qatar, they must file their tax return no later than 4 months following the conclusion of the year. Business returns are not eligible for any extension of the filing deadline.
Qatar Social Security
Because of the small population in Qatar, and the significant GDP, there are very few financial obligations imposed on residents of the country for the social services they receive. Expatriates receive medical assistance, although they only get limited social services in other areas. With very few, or even no tax obligations, Americans do not have any reason to be concerned about any kind of double taxation caused by social security. There is not an agreement about social security between Qatar and the US.
Does Qatar Tax Foreign Income?
There isn’t a reason to be concerned with income from outside of Qatar since there is not an income tax.
Tax Treaty
There is not currently a tax treaty in place between the United States and Qatar. Still, double taxation isn’t a significant concern since Qatar does not have an income tax. The only time it would be a possibility is for Americans operating a business in Qatar. But, since an expat doesn’t pay income tax to Qatar, they may owe a larger amount on their United States expat taxes.
Qatar Taxes
There are not income taxes imposed on wages in Qatar, and even other kinds of taxes are limited. Unlike many other countries, Qatar does not impose capital gains taxes, estate taxes, wealth taxes, or gift taxes. There has been some talk about introducing a value added tax (VAT) in Qatar, but so far it has not happened.
How Should You Prepare Paperwork for your US Taxes?
We wrote the following article that explains how you should prepare to file US tax returns from Qatar:
Questions About Qatar Taxes?
There are many exciting opportunities in this part of the world that are hard to find anywhere else. The attractive tax system in Qatar means your taxes owed in Qatar will be minimal, but don’t forget that you may owe more on US expatriate taxes as a result. It is always a good idea to seek out expert tax advice.
Contact us! We have an expert team to provide tax advice to expats, and give you all the information you need to know to file your United States expat tax return while living outside the country.