There is a common belief that if you live between two countries or earn income abroad, you will end up paying taxes twice on the same income. In reality, the tax situation is very different.
Most countries have signed double taxation agreements (DTAs) specifically designed to prevent the same income from being taxed twice. These agreements determine which country has the right to tax each type of income—such as employment income, dividends, rental income, or pensions—and how double taxation is eliminated.
In practice, your country of tax residence will usually allow you to credit or deduct the tax paid in the other country, in accordance with the applicable tax treaty. As a result, even if you have tax obligations in more than one jurisdiction, the overall tax burden is generally neutralized.
Living between countries can certainly add complexity. Correctly determining tax residence, applying the right treaty, and filing tax returns properly and on time are essential. When done correctly, double taxation is the exception, not the rule.
In short, having international income does not automatically mean paying more tax—it means understanding the rules and applying tax treaties correctly.