Sark, in the Channel Islands, is located close to Jersey, Guernsey and Alderney and is a unique and unspoiled island with no airport or cars.

It is a quiet tourist destination with little other industry to detract from the island's stunning natural beauty, with a small population enjoying an exceptional rural quality of life.

Tax Residency Confirmation

With growing moves toward international tax transparency and an increasing change of domicile by many people, a tax residency confirmation is often now requested as a formal document by banks and other bodies as part of their 'know your client' procedures. 

In some of the smaller jurisdictions this often requires an explanation with regards to the taxation obligations of residents.

Sark Government Explanatory Statement

Sark, which is part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, is probably the smallest self-governing state in the world with a population of approximately 560 people, and clearly a community which cannot fund resources for all of the normal governmental administration and regulation procedures.

It is therefore interesting that this charming and beautiful island has felt it appropriate to confirm a support for transparency on issues of taxation.

The Government has issued an explanatory statement regarding Sark's support for international tax transparency which also provides an interesting overview of the island.  This can be viewed on the Sark Government website at:

http://www.gov.sark.gg/Downloads/Press_Releases/2016_press_releases/160408_sark_transparency_policy_statement.pdf

Historically in Sark, a letter has been provided, addressed to the taxpayer, confirming the  amount of tax paid by that individual in Sark during the relevant year.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.