Best Brokers for Expats 2026: eToro Interactive Brokers Saxo Compared

Quick Answer

The best brokers for expat investors in 2026 are eToro (140 countries, FCA/CySEC/ASIC regulated, social trading), Interactive Brokers (most comprehensive international coverage, professional-grade tools), and Saxo Bank (premium service, broad asset selection). The right choice depends on your country of residence, investment amount, and required asset classes.

eToro for Expats

eToro serves expat investors in 140+ countries and is regulated by the FCA (UK), CySEC (EU), and ASIC (Australia). For expats, the multi-jurisdiction regulation means protection under one of the three frameworks depending on your residence. The copy trading feature is particularly useful for time-poor expats who want exposure to markets without constant active management. eToro offers stocks, ETFs, commodities, cryptocurrencies, and currencies. Minimum deposit varies by country — typically $200-$500 for most expat locations.

Interactive Brokers for Expats

Interactive Brokers is the benchmark for professional-grade expat investing. It holds regulation in the US (SEC, FINRA), UK (FCA), EU (MiFID II via IBCE), Australia (ASIC), and many other jurisdictions. Access to 135+ markets in 33 countries makes it the broadest international platform available. IBKR Pro offers institutional-grade tools; IBKR Lite is more beginner-friendly. Minimum account: $0 (no minimum). Best for: high-net-worth expats, active traders, those needing multi-currency accounts.

Saxo Bank for Expats

Saxo Bank is the premium choice — higher minimums ($2,000-$10,000 depending on account type) but superior service and asset coverage. Regulated by the FSA (Denmark), FCA (UK), MAS (Singapore), and FINMA (Switzerland). Strong in bonds, options, and FX — asset classes where eToro and Interactive Brokers have limitations. Best for: affluent expats, fixed income investors, FX-focused portfolios.

Tax Considerations for Expat Investors

Tax obligations depend on your residency status. US expats face FBAR filing requirements (FinCEN 114) for foreign accounts exceeding $10,000 and FATCA disclosure. UK expats may retain HMRC obligations. Israeli olim receive a 10-year tax exemption on foreign-source income. Always consult a qualified tax advisor in your country of residence before selecting a broker — account structures and reporting requirements vary significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which broker is best for expats in 2026?

eToro is best for beginners and social traders — available in 140 countries, FCA/CySEC/ASIC regulated, low minimums, copy trading feature. Interactive Brokers is best for active traders and professionals — broadest market access, 135+ markets, institutional tools. Saxo Bank is best for high-net-worth expats wanting premium service. Your country of residence determines which platforms are available to you.

Is eToro available for expats worldwide?

eToro operates in 140+ countries with regulatory coverage across three major jurisdictions (FCA/CySEC/ASIC). However, some countries are excluded — check eToro's website for your specific country of residence. US residents have a separate eToro US entity with restricted features. Israeli olim can use the EU or UK regulated entity depending on their prior residence.

How do I handle taxes as an expat investor?

Tax obligations depend on your specific residency situation. Key frameworks: US expats must file FBAR (accounts over $10,000) and FATCA (Form 8938) — applies regardless of broker location. UK non-doms have specific rules on foreign income. Israeli olim receive a 10-year exemption on foreign-source income under the 2008 tax reform. Consult a qualified tax advisor or yoetz mas (Israeli tax advisor) for your specific situation.

Can I open a broker account as an expat without a local address?

Yes — eToro, Interactive Brokers, and Saxo Bank all accept expat clients and can verify identity using passport plus utility bill or bank statement from your country of residence. A local address in the country of registration is not required. Some platforms will ask for proof of address from wherever you currently reside. Online KYC processes make opening accounts from abroad straightforward in 2026.