The UK Government announced major changes to Qrops schemes as from the above date (note this does not affect those who already have a Qrops). In essence, anyone who is resident outside of the EU/EEA or not living in the country where their Qrops is based (limited options here) will be taxed at 25% of the value of their pension, if this occurs within 5 years of starting a Qrops (i.e. becoming non UK resident).
So for example, Chris Burke moves his pension from the UK into a Qrops on the 30th March 2017 to a scheme based in Malta (one of the most popular places to hold your Qrops due to its strict regulation). In 2021 (4 years time) Chris decides he is moving to Dubai. He would be taxed 25% on the value of his Qrops.
Why is the UK doing this?
Well, there are many reasons and you would think Brexit is one (many people leaving the UK and perhaps taking their pensions with them). Qrops is also very popular due to its potentially tax efficient and security aspect of securing your UK pension (this is not the case for everybody so good advice is needed). You would also have to look at the potential taxes the Government would raise from this, there are many Qrops based schemes around the world and by limiting where you can hold your pension greatly affects those that can move it.
So to clarify, UK pension transfers to QROPS requested on or after the 9th March 2017 will be subject to a 25% tax charge, unless;
1. The QROPS is in the EEA and the Member is also resident in an EEA country.
2. The QROPS and Member are in the same country or territory. This is a limited if negligible part of the market.
3. The QROPS is an employer sponsored occupational scheme, overseas public service pension scheme or a pension scheme established by an international organisation.
Draft Guidance confirms that for the purposes of these measures, the EEA includes Gibraltar, which is considered part of the EU as a part of the UK.