The highly tax efficient share scheme for smaller companies is to be made available to foreign companies.
Background
EMI schemes are the most flexible of the UK’s tax favoured share
option plans and provide generous tax treatment to participating
employees of smaller companies (gross assets of £30 million or less).
Only companies which satisfy the qualifying criteria may grant EMI
options. One of the qualifying conditions is that the company which is
seeking to grant EMI options must carry out a qualifying trade wholly or
mainly in the UK. This prevents employees of foreign companies, which
would otherwise qualify, from benefitting.
It was originally intended to make an amendment to permit foreign
companies with a permanent establishment in the UK to grant EMI options
from 6 April 2010. However, due to the general election, this was
postponed.
The proposed amendment is contained within the Finance (No.3) Bill 2010-11 which is expected to become law on 16 December 2010.
Commentary
This is a welcome change to the EMI regime as it will enable
overseas companies with a permanent establishment in the UK to offer EMI
options to their UK tax-paying employees. In an uncertain economy EMI
options are a particularly tax effective cash-free method of
remunerating and incentivising employees.
Resources
UK Enterprise Management Incentives (“EMI”) schemes
For further information or to discuss the issues raised, please get in touch.
