Green Card Holder Tax
A practical starting point
What should a green card holder review before or after a move?
Moving abroad or spending time outside the United States can raise questions about tax residence, income reporting, and prior filings. Immigration status, physical location, and tax treatment are related facts, but they should not be used interchangeably.
We review the relevant dates, income sources, residence history, and filing position. A proposed treaty position, status change, or surrender of permanent residence needs individualized analysis and may require coordination with an immigration attorney. Do not base a major status decision on a general website example.
What to agree before work begins
Clarify the tax questions raised by the move and which advisers must be involved. Document assumptions and outstanding information before choosing a filing position.
What we handle
- Worldwide income reporting for residents
- Dual-status and first-year residency returns
- Foreign income and asset reporting
- Expatriation and exit-tax planning
- Treaty tie-breaker analysis
Common questions
I have a green card but live abroad, do I file U.S. taxes?
Yes. Green card holders are U.S. tax residents on worldwide income regardless of where they live, until the card is formally abandoned.
What happens to my taxes if I give up my green card?
Depending on how long you held it and your net worth, you may face an exit tax. We help long-term residents plan for this before surrendering the card.
Related u.s. expat tax services
Let's discuss the work you need.
Tell us about your situation, the records you have, and any deadlines. We will discuss the right scope and next steps before an engagement begins.