One advantage of QROPS is that they increase the tax efficiency of the pension holder. This is because, it may be possible for you to receive income from your retirement fund at lower tax rates than would normally apply in the UK. This of course being subject to the particular laws of the country that you are resident. In addition, QROPS eliminate the need to buy an annuity which enables you to retain control of your pension savings capital as well as hold assets such as residential property which are not typically allowed in UK pension funds.
QROPS also allow for the easier transfer of wealth from one generation to the next. Through QROPS you may pass a portion of your pension savings that you don't spend to your heirs. Depending on the tax laws of the country in which you choose to become resident, your offshore pension may incur lower Inheritance Tax rates or even no local equivalent of this tax as is the case in Cyprus.
One disadvantage of QROPS is the costs involved in setting up and maintenance such as legal and administration fees. Therefore, when selecting your QROPS, be sure to take into consideration the initial and annual fees involved. QROPS may also pose a significant investment risk. This is because by opting not to buy an annuity and keeping your QROPS invested in stock market based assets or any other assets whose value cannot be guaranteed, you are putting your capital and income at risk of falling without getting back as much as you had initially invested.
The regulation gap involved in QROPS is yet another con. This is because countries offering lower tax rates than in the UK are also likely to provide less investor protection with regards to the regulation of financial services, nor would they provide a statutory compensation scheme. It is therefore important to only seek the advice of professionals who are fully licensed in the UK as well as in the particular overseas jurisdiction in which you wish to reside, retire or enjoy your expatriate pension.