Leaving the UK is a big milestone. For many South Asians it marks the end of studies. the completion of a work contract. or a major life change. Amid the packing. farewell dinners. and last minute errands. one essential step often gets overlooked. telling HMRC that you are leaving.

This single action can protect your money. secure any refund you are owed. and ensure your tax record remains clean. Since UK tax paperwork can feel intimidating. this walkthrough explains each form slowly and clearly so beginners can follow it without stress.

Why Informing HMRC Is Important Before You Leave

Every person who earns money in the UK pays tax based on the assumption that they will continue to live and work here for the full tax year. Once you leave early. your tax calculation changes. This means one key thing. you may have overpaid tax and could be owed money back.

Not completing the correct forms can lead to problems later.

• You could miss out on a refund
• HMRC may continue asking for information
• Your tax residency status may remain incorrect
• Your National Insurance record may not be updated

For international students and skilled workers. this can also impact future visa applications and employment background checks in other countries.

Understanding the Essential Forms Before Departure

Below is a detailed breakdown of each form. why it matters. who needs it. and how to get it.

1. P45. Your Employment Exit Certificate

Your P45 is issued by your employer when you stop working. It is one of the most important pieces of paperwork for leaving the UK.

What the P45 shows

• Your total earnings for that tax year
• The tax you have already paid
• Your tax code

Why it matters

The P45 allows HMRC to accurately calculate your refund. It also helps your future employer abroad understand your income history if required.

Who needs it

Everyone leaving a job. whether you are a student working part time. a full time employee. or a Skilled Worker visa holder.

Common issues

Many employers forget to give it. Always request it before your final day. You can receive it digitally or as a printed document.

2. P60. A Summary of Your Full Tax Year

You only receive a P60 if you were still employed on 5 April (the last day of the tax year). Not everyone leaving will have one.

What the P60 shows

• Your total annual earnings
• Total tax paid
• Confirmation of your employment status on 5 April

Why it matters

A P60 is helpful for proof of income back home. especially for visa applications. loan applications. or foreign tax filings.

Tip

If you lost your P60. your employer can reissue it.

3. P85. The Main Form for Anyone Leaving the UK

This is the most important form for anyone who is leaving permanently or for a long period.

Completing HMRC forms before leaving the UK ensures your tax record closes correctly and that HMRC can release any refund you are owed.

What the P85 does

• Tells HMRC you are leaving the UK
• Updates your tax residency status
• Helps HMRC check if you overpaid tax
• Initiates your tax refund

What you need to complete it

• Your P45
• National Insurance number
• UK address
• New overseas address
• Bank details

Where to complete it

You can submit the P85 online through the HMRC website. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes if you have your documents ready.

Typical refund scenarios

• Students who worked part time and leave mid year
• Skilled workers whose sponsorship ends early
• People switching visas and leaving the UK between jobs
• Seasonal workers

4. Self Assessment. Only for Certain Individuals

Most people leaving the UK do not need to do a Self Assessment return. You only need it if you meet specific requirements.

You must file a Self Assessment if

• You were self employed
• You had rental income from a UK property
• You earned over £100,000
• You were a company director
• You received untaxed income

If any apply. you must file your last return before departure. You may also need to deregister. which is quick and can be done online.

5. National Insurance Considerations Before Leaving

NI contributions work differently from income tax.

To download and check your NI history you can log in directly through HMRC Personal Tax Account using GOV.UK verification

Can you get an NI refund

Usually no. NI is not refunded for Indians or most international residents. However. NI contributions stay on your record for life and may help you qualify for a partial UK State Pension if you return one day.

What you should do

• Download your NI record from your HMRC account
• Keep proof of contributions if you ever need it abroad

6. U1 Form. Important for EU Moves

If you are moving to an EU or EEA country next. request the U1 form. It summarises your UK employment history.

Why it matters

It helps you transfer your employment rights to the new country. This is especially helpful for unemployment benefits or social security credits in Europe.

Practical Tips Before You Fly Out

Keep digital backups

Upload copies of your P45. P60. P85. and NI documents to Google Drive or another cloud service.

Do not close your UK bank account immediately

HMRC often sends refunds to your UK bank. Keep it open for at least three to four months.

Share details with a trusted contact in the UK

If HMRC sends a cheque. your contact can forward it to you.

Keep your NI number safe

You will need it throughout life. even if you return to the UK years later.

How Long Does a Tax Refund Take

HMRC normally takes between four and twelve weeks to process refunds. Sometimes longer during busy periods. You will receive an email or letter confirming the final amount.

Refund can be issued through

• Your UK bank
• A cheque
• A nominated representative

Many travellers are unaware that HMRC forms before leaving the UK can directly impact refunds, pension records, bank account closures and future visa paperwork, which makes early filing essential. For more details. GOV.UK has a complete guide titled Tax if you leave the UK which covers residency status. split year rules. and refund procedures for departing workers.

Need UK-based support services (accountants, tax advisors, etc.) before you leave? Explore our Business & Professional Services directory.

Leaving the UK involves more than packing your suitcase. Completing your HMRC forms ensures that your financial record is clean. your tax residency is accurate. and your hard earned money is returned to you if you overpaid. This process is not complicated. and with the right guidance. you can finish it confidently.