u/DrVonNostren

I'm a US citizen living in Germany, relocating to Spain mid-2027. My partner is Italian. Our daughter was born this year in Berlin and holds both US and Italian citizenship.

I already manage my own portfolio (US-domiciled ETFs — QQQM/VOO/SCHG mix, at Schwab) and want to start investing for her the same way, self-directed, no ongoing advisor relationship. Before I just open an account and start funding it, I want to know how much of this I can actually figure out myself vs. where I genuinely need a professional.

What I think I know, happy to be corrected:

• PFIC rules mean EU-domiciled funds are off the table for her given her US citizenship — has to be US-domiciled ETFs
• Not sure if her Italian citizenship adds any real complexity here, or if it's mostly irrelevant investment-wise since we won't be Italy-resident
• Seems like my only option here is to invest State-side for her?

Questions:

1. Is this actually a DIY-able situation once I know the right account type and brokerage, or is there a real reason to loop in a professional (tax treatment, reporting obligations, something I'm not seeing)?
2. If a pro is warranted, has anyone found someone who'll do a single paid hourly session — not sell a full financial plan or want an AUM relationship — for a question this narrow? Names/recommendations appreciated.

Thanks in advance.