One Simple Way to Increase Your Salary (That No One Talks About)

When people think about increasing their salary, they usually focus on two options: asking for a raise or switching to a higher-paying job. But there’s a third lever that’s often overlooked, and it can dramatically change your take-home pay without negotiating a single euro more.

It’s not about earning more. It’s about keeping more of what you already earn.

And that’s where expat tax regimes come in.

Salary Isn’t Just Gross — It’s Net

Two people can earn the same salary and live very different financial realities.

Why?

Because taxes and social contributions can quietly take 30–50% of your income, or much less, depending on where and how you work.

Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful this can be:

• Working in Dubai

• Living and working in Zurich

• Benefiting from Italy’s Impatriates Regime

Each move significantly increased my net income, even when the gross salary stayed similar.

EU Expat Tax Regimes You Should Know

Many European countries actively compete for international talent by offering special tax regimes for newcomers. These programs are legal, structured, and often valid for 5–10 years.

Below are some of the most impactful ones.

Italy — Impatriates Regime (Rientro dei Cervelli)

Italy offers one of the most generous expat tax programs in Europe.

• Only 30% of your salary is taxed (70% exempt)

• In certain southern regions: only 10% is taxed

• Duration: 5 years (extendable in some cases)

🔗 Official details: https://lnkd.in/dU23_94g

Spain — Beckham Law

Designed for professionals relocating to Spain for work.

• Flat 24% tax on Spanish income

• Applies up to ~€600,000

• Valid for up to 6 years

🔗 Official details: https://lnkd.in/d-dsJ7Ze

Portugal — NHR (Non-Habitual Resident)

A long-standing favorite among international professionals.

• 20% flat tax on qualifying local professional income

• Many types of foreign income can be tax-free

• Valid for 10 years

🔗 Official details: https://lnkd.in/d8rVc4D7

Netherlands — 30/20/10 Ruling

Instead of lowering the tax rate, the Netherlands exempts part of your salary.

• 30% tax-free initially

• Then 20%, then 10%

• Total duration: 5 years

🔗 Official details: https://lnkd.in/dn9UFS9b 

Switzerland — Canton-Based Tax Advantage

Switzerland doesn’t have a single expat regime, but location matters a lot.

• Total deductions usually range from 24% to 35%

• Strongly dependent on canton and pension setup

• Often results in higher net pay despite high gross taxes

🔗 Official details: https://lnkd.in/dt_8hvH2

Malta — Expat Flat Tax Regime

A niche but powerful option for the right profile.

• 15% tax on qualifying foreign income remitted to Malta

• Minimum tax threshold applies

• Popular among senior professionals and entrepreneurs

🔗 Official details: https://lnkd.in/deG_zyVN 

What to Consider Before Moving

These regimes can be life-changing but they’re not plug-and-play.

Before relocating, always evaluate:

• Eligibility requirements

• Residency rules

• Duration and exit conditions

• Social security and pension implications

• Family and lifestyle factors

Always consult a local tax advisor before making a decision.

The Bottom Line

You don’t always need a higher salary to improve your financial life. Sometimes, the smartest move is simply: earning the same, and keeping more.

For internationally mobile professionals, expat tax regimes can be one of the most powerful (and underestimated) career decisions you’ll ever make.