Tax Filing for Non-Residents
We assist non-resident aliens in correctly filing Form 1040-NR covering U.S.-source income, treaty benefits, deductions, and ensuring compliance while minimizing unnecessary taxes.
Non-Resident Alien Tax Filing
As a non-resident alien, US tax obligations can often feel like trying to solve a puzzle. Whether you're working in the US on a visa, earning US-source income from abroad, or trying to determine your tax status, understanding your obligations is essential. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything non-resident aliens need to know about Form 1040-NR and avoiding common pitfalls that could cost thousands in unnecessary taxes.
Am I a non-resident alien or resident alien for tax purposes?
This is the most critical question you must answer before filing any US tax return. Your tax residency status determines which form you file, what income is taxable, what deductions you can claim, and whether you can use tax treaties. Getting this wrong can cost thousands in taxes and trigger IRS compliance issues.
Important: Tax residency is completely separate from immigration status. You can be a resident alien for tax purposes while on a non-immigrant visa, or a non-resident alien despite having a green card application pending.
The Two Tests for Tax Residency
You are a resident alien for tax purposes if you meet either:
1. The Green Card Test
You are a resident alien if you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) at any time during the calendar year. This applies even if:
- You received your green card on December 31st
- You live outside the United States
- You haven't yet moved to the US
- Your green card is expiring (but not formally abandoned)
2. The Substantial Presence Test
You meet this test if you were physically present in the US for:
- At least 31 days during the current year, AND
- At least 183 days during the 3-year period including current and 2 prior years, calculated as:
- All days present in the current year, plus
- 1/3 of days present in the prior year, plus
- 1/6 of days present in the year before that
Substantial Presence Test Calculator
This calculator helps determine if you meet the Substantial Presence Test for U.S. tax residency based on days present in the U.S. Enter the number of days you were present in each year (0 if none).
Note: This is for illustrative purposes. Consult with a licensed Tax Professional for official advice.
Exempt Individuals - Days That Don't Count
Certain individuals are "exempt" from counting days for the substantial presence test. You're an exempt individual if you're:
| Category | Visa Types | Exempt Period | Form Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Students | F-1, F-2, J-1, J-2, M-1, M-2, Q-1, Q-2 | 5 calendar years | Form 8843 |
| Teachers/Researchers | J-1, Q-1 | 2 of prior 6 years | Form 8843 |
| Foreign Government | A-1, A-2, G-1 through G-5 | Unlimited | Form 8843 |
| Professional Athletes | Various | Days for charitable events | Form 8843 |
| Medical Condition | Any | Days unable to leave | Form 8843 |
Critical Note for Students: After 5 calendar years as a student (F/J/M/Q), your days start counting toward the substantial presence test. Many international students become resident aliens in their 6th year without realizing it, missing out on treaty benefits and facing unexpected tax obligations.
The Closer Connection Exception
Even if you meet the substantial presence test, you might still be treated as a non-resident alien if you:
- Were present in the US for fewer than 183 days in the current year
- Maintain a tax home in a foreign country
- Have a closer connection to that foreign country
- File Form 8840 by the tax deadline
Evidence of closer connection includes: foreign voter registration, driver's license, home ownership, family location, bank accounts, business activities, and where you file tax returns claiming residency.
When do I need to file Form 1040-NR?
Non-resident aliens must file Form 1040-NR if they have:
US-Source Income Subject to Tax
- Wages from US employment (any amount if taxes weren't fully withheld)
- US business income through a partnership, LLC, or sole proprietorship
- Scholarship or fellowship grants exceeding qualified education expenses
- Self-employment income of $400 or more
Situations Requiring Filing Regardless of Income
- You want to claim a refund of overwithheld taxes
- You're claiming tax treaty benefits requiring disclosure
- You received wages from a tax-exempt organization
- You're subject to the individual mandate penalty (pre-2019)
Filing Deadlines for Non-Resident Aliens
| Situation | Deadline | Extension Available? |
|---|---|---|
| Wages subject to withholding | April 15 | Yes, to October 15 (Form 4868) |
| No wages subject to withholding | June 15 | Yes, to October 15 (automatic) |
| Form 8843 only (no income) | June 15 | No extension available |
| Partnership K-1 recipient | April 15 | Yes, to October 15 |
Pro Tip: If you're not sure whether you need to file a tax return, it's best to file one anyway. The penalties for failing to file when required are severe, whereas there is no penalty for filing an unnecessary return. Filing also starts the statute of limitations, which limits the IRS's window for an audit to three years (or six years in cases of substantial understatement).
What income is taxable for non-resident aliens?
Non-resident aliens are taxed only on US-source income, which falls into two distinct categories with completely different tax treatment:
Two Types of Taxable Income
Effectively Connected Income (ECI)
Taxed at graduated rates (10%-37%)
Deductions allowed
Includes: Wages, business income
Fixed/Determinable Income (FDAP)
Flat 30% tax (or treaty rate)
No deductions allowed
Includes: Dividends, interest, royalties
Effectively Connected Income (ECI)
ECI includes income from active US business activities or personal services:
- Wages and salaries: From US employers or for services performed in the US
- Self-employment income: From US trade or business activities
- Business income: Through partnerships, LLCs, or sole proprietorships
- Certain scholarships: Amounts exceeding qualified education expenses
ECI is reported on page 1 of Form 1040-NR and taxed at the same graduated rates as US citizens, with most itemized deductions available.
Fixed, Determinable, Annual, or Periodic Income (FDAP)
FDAP income is passive income from US sources:
- Interest: From US banks, bonds, or loans (but see portfolio interest exception)
- Dividends: From US corporations
- Royalties: For use of property in the US
- Pensions and annuities: From US sources
- Social Security: 85% taxable at 30% rate (unless treaty applies)
FDAP income is reported on page 5 of Form 1040-NR (Schedule NEC) and taxed at a flat 30% rate unless reduced by treaty.
What Income is NOT Taxable?
Non-resident aliens are generally not required to pay U.S. tax on certain types of income. Key exemptions include:
- Foreign-Source Income: This is income from sources outside the United States. For example, wages for services you perform in another country are not subject to U.S. tax.
- Most Capital Gains: Gains from selling personal property, such as stocks and bonds from U.S. companies, are tax-exempt as long as you are physically present in the U.S. for less than 183 days in the tax year. However, gains from selling U.S. real estate are a major exception and are taxable.
- Portfolio Interest: This is a significant exemption for interest you earn on U.S. bonds, notes, and other debt instruments, provided it is not connected to a U.S. trade or business.
- U.S. Bank Deposit Interest: Interest earned on standard deposits with U.S. banks, savings and loan associations, and some insurance companies is not taxable.
- Certain Gambling Winnings: Winnings from games like bingo, keno, and slot machines are exempt from U.S. tax.
Additional Resources: For comprehensive information on specific topics related to non-resident alien taxation, please see our detailed guides on:
What about state taxes for non-resident aliens?
State taxation of non-resident aliens varies dramatically. Some states aggressively tax any US-source income, while others follow federal treaties. Understanding your state obligations is crucial—state taxes can exceed federal taxes in high-tax jurisdictions.
State Tax Considerations
| State Category | States | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| No Income Tax | AK, FL, NV, SD, TN, TX, WA, WY | Only federal filing required |
| Treaty Followers | Most states | Honor federal treaty positions |
| Treaty Non-Followers | AL, AR, CA, CT, HI, KY, MD, MS, MT, NJ, ND, PA | May tax treaty-exempt income |
| Aggressive States | CA, NY | Source income broadly, complex rules |
California's Unique Rules
California is particularly aggressive with non-residents:
- Doesn't follow most federal tax treaties
- Sources income based on where benefit received
- Taxes stock options based on work location during vesting
- Requires withholding on payments to non-residents
- 1.5% penalty for underwithholding by employers
Multi-State Complications
If you work in multiple states:
- May need to file in each state where you earned income
- Allocate income based on days worked in each state
- Can't use federal treaty benefits in non-following states
- May face double state taxation without credit mechanisms
Professional Athletes and Entertainers: Subject to "jock tax" in every state where you perform. Some cities (NYC, Philadelphia) also impose local taxes. A single game or concert can trigger filing requirements in multiple jurisdictions.
How do I handle wages and withholding (W-2, 1042-S)?
Understanding withholding is crucial for non-resident aliens. Incorrect withholding can lead to large tax bills or delayed refunds. Different types of income have different withholding rules and forms.
Employment Income Withholding
Form W-4 Restrictions for Non-Resident Aliens
When completing Form W-4, non-resident aliens must:
- Check the box for Single or Married Filing Separately (never MFJ)
- Claim only one personal allowance (unless treaty allows more)
- Write "NRA" at the top of the form
- Cannot claim standard deduction in withholding calculations
- Request additional withholding if needed
Year-End Forms You'll Receive
| Form | Issuer | Reports | Due Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| W-2 | US Employers | Wages, tips, withholding | January 31 |
| 1042-S | Withholding Agents | FDAP income, treaty benefits | March 15 |
| 1099-MISC | US Payers | Independent contractor income | January 31 |
| 1099-NEC | US Payers | Non-employee compensation | January 31 |
| 1098-T | Educational Institutions | Tuition and scholarships | January 31 |
Independent Contractor Withholding
As a non-resident alien independent contractor:
- Provide Form W-8BEN to avoid 30% backup withholding
- May still face 30% withholding on gross payments
- Can claim treaty benefits with Form 8233 if applicable
- Must pay estimated taxes quarterly if no withholding
- Subject to self-employment tax unless treaty exemption
Common Withholding Problems and Solutions
Problem: Employer withheld at 30% on wages
Solution: File Form 1040-NR to claim graduated rates and get refund
Problem: No treaty benefits applied to withholding
Solution: Claim treaty on return with Form 8833, get refund
Problem: Received both W-2 and 1042-S for same income
Solution: Report on 1040-NR, attach both forms, explain in statement
Can I claim deductions and credits on Form 1040-NR?
Non-resident aliens face significant restrictions on deductions and credits compared to US citizens and resident aliens. Understanding what you can and cannot claim is essential for accurate filing and maximizing legitimate tax benefits.
Deductions Available to Non-Resident Aliens
Above-the-Line Deductions (Available to All NRAs)
- Educator expenses: Up to $300 for qualified K-12 teachers
- Health Savings Account (HSA): If eligible for HSA contributions
- Moving expenses: Only for active military
- Self-employment deductions: Half of SE tax, retirement contributions
- Student loan interest: If loan qualifies and income limits met
- IRA contributions: If you have US earned income
Itemized Deductions (Limited for NRAs)
Non-resident aliens can ONLY itemize if they have ECI. Available itemized deductions:
- State and local taxes: Limited to $10,000
- Charitable contributions: Only to US charities
- Casualty and theft losses: From federally declared disasters
- Miscellaneous deductions: Eliminated for 2018-2025
No Standard Deduction: Non-resident aliens cannot claim the standard deduction ($15,000 for single filers in 2025) unless from India (treaty exception). This alone can cost thousands in additional taxes compared to resident aliens.
Deductions NOT Available to Non-Resident Aliens
- Standard deduction (except India treaty)
- Mortgage interest on non-business property
- Medical expense deductions
- Personal exemptions (eliminated for everyone 2018-2025)
- Most business deductions on FDAP income
Tax Credits for Non-Resident Aliens
| Credit | Available to NRAs? | Conditions/Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Child Tax Credit | No | Not available unless resident alien |
| Earned Income Credit | No | Specifically prohibited for NRAs |
| Education Credits | Limited | Generally no, unless treaty allows |
| Foreign Tax Credit | Yes | Only on foreign tax on US income |
| Child/Dependent Care | Yes | If qualifying person is US citizen/resident |
| Withholding Credit | Yes | For amounts on W-2, 1042-S, 1099 |
What if I'm a student or researcher (F-1, J-1, Q-1)?
International students and researchers enjoy special tax treatment but face unique compliance requirements. Your visa type, length of stay, and country of origin all affect your tax obligations.
The 5-Year Rule for Students
F-1, J-1, M-1, and Q-1 students are exempt from the substantial presence test for 5 calendar years. This means:
- Years don't have to be consecutive
- Partial years count as full years
- Includes any prior time in F/J/M/Q status
- Changes to H-1B or other status reset the count
- After 5 years, you become a resident alien unless treaty protection applies
Student Tax Timeline Example
Years 1-5
Non-resident alien
File Form 1040-NR
Claim treaty benefits
File Form 8843
Year 6+
Likely resident alien
File Form 1040
Worldwide income taxable
Standard deduction available
Taxable vs. Non-Taxable Income for Students
Generally NOT Taxable
- Qualified scholarships covering tuition and required fees
- Required books and supplies portion of scholarships
- Payments from foreign sources for education/maintenance
- On-campus employment up to 20 hours/week during school
- CPT wages if treaty exemption applies
Generally Taxable
- Scholarships for room, board, and living expenses
- Teaching or research assistantships
- OPT employment income
- Off-campus employment (if authorized)
- Summer internship wages
- Any wages exceeding treaty exemptions
Researchers and the 2-Year Rule
J-1 and Q-1 researchers/teachers are exempt from the substantial presence test for their first 2 calendar years out of the previous 6 years. Key points:
- Must be temporarily present for teaching/research
- Compensation must be from qualifying institution
- If you were exempt as student, that time doesn't count against 2 years
- If you were exempt as student, that time doesn't count against 2 years
- Many treaties provide 2-3 years of complete tax exemption
- Form 8233 required to claim exemption from withholding
How do I file if I changed status during the year?
Changing from non-resident to resident alien (or vice versa) during the year creates a "dual-status" tax year—one of the most complex filing situations. You'll need to follow special rules and potentially file multiple forms.
Common Status Changes
Becoming a Resident Alien
- Green card receipt: Resident from the day you receive card
- Meeting substantial presence: Resident from first day of presence in year you meet test
- Marriage to US citizen/resident: Can elect resident status from January 1
- First-year choice: Arrive late in year, elect resident status early
Ceasing to be Resident Alien
- Green card abandonment: Non-resident from date of surrender
- Treaty tie-breaker: Non-resident from date establishing foreign residence
- Failing substantial presence: Non-resident from last day of US presence
Dual-Status Filing Requirements
For a dual-status year, you must:
- File Form 1040 for the full year
- Write "Dual-Status Return" across the top
- Attach Form 1040-NR as a statement for non-resident portion
- Separate income and deductions by status period
- Cannot use standard deduction for any part of year
- Cannot file jointly (unless special election)
- Cannot claim personal exemptions for non-resident portion
Critical Timing: The date of status change affects everything—which income is taxable, available deductions, treaty benefits, and withholding requirements. Document the exact date with evidence (green card, I-94, passport stamps, lease agreements).
First-Year Choice Election
If you arrive late in the year and meet these conditions, you can elect resident status for part of the year:
- Don't meet substantial presence test in arrival year
- Would meet 183-day test in following year
- Present in US for 31+ consecutive days in arrival year
- Present for 75% of days from 31-day period through year-end
Benefits: Can file jointly, claim standard deduction, qualify for credits
Drawback: Worldwide income becomes taxable earlier
What are the penalties for incorrect filing?
The IRS imposes significant penalties for filing errors, late filing, and non-compliance. For non-resident aliens unfamiliar with US tax rules, these penalties can quickly escalate. Understanding the penalty structure helps you prioritize compliance and know when to seek professional help.
Common Penalties for Non-Resident Aliens
| Penalty Type | Amount | Maximum | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to File | 5% per month | 25% of tax due | Minimum $485 if 60+ days late |
| Failure to Pay | 0.5% per month | 25% of tax due | Increases to 1% after notice |
| Accuracy-Related | 20% of underpayment | No maximum | For substantial understatement |
| Form 8843 Late | $1,000 | $1,000 | Often waived for first offense |
| Form 8833 Missing | $1,000 | $10,000 | For treaty position disclosure |
| Form 8938 Late | $10,000 | $60,000 | Foreign asset reporting |
| FBAR Late | $14,489 per account | Greater of $144,886 or 50% balance | Non-willful vs. willful |
Interest on Late Payments
The IRS charges interest on unpaid taxes from the original due date:
- Current rate: ~7% annually (adjusted quarterly)
- Compounds daily
- Cannot be waived even if penalties are removed
- Applies even with filing extension
Reasonable Cause Relief
You may qualify for penalty relief if you can show reasonable cause:
- Ordinary business care: Despite exercising care, you couldn't comply
- Reliance on professional: Tax advisor gave incorrect advice
- Unfamiliarity with US tax: First-time filer from abroad
- Serious illness: Medical condition prevented filing
- Natural disaster: Unable to obtain records
First-Time Penalty Abatement: If you have a clean compliance history (no penalties in prior 3 years), the IRS often waives first-time penalties automatically. Call to request or write letter with return.
How do I get an ITIN if I don't have an SSN?
Non-resident aliens who need to file US tax returns but aren't eligible for a Social Security Number must obtain an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The process has become stricter in recent years, with specific documentation requirements and timing restrictions.
Who Needs an ITIN?
- Non-resident aliens with US tax filing requirements
- Spouses of US citizens/residents who file jointly
- Dependents claimed on US tax returns
- Foreign investors subject to FIRPTA withholding
- Foreign partners in US partnerships
- Recipients of US pensions or annuities
ITIN Application Application Process
Required Documents
- Form W-7: Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
- Federal tax return: Must be attached unless exception applies
- Identity documents: Passport (standalone) or combination of:
- National ID card (with photo)
- US driver's license
- Birth certificate (for dependents under 18)
- Foreign driver's license
- US state ID card
- Foreign voter registration card
- US or foreign military ID
- Visa
- USCIS photo ID
- Medical or school records (dependents only)
Submission Options
| Method | Processing Time | Document Requirement | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mail to IRS | 11-13 weeks | Original or certified copies | Free |
| IRS TAC Appointment | 11-13 weeks | Original (returned immediately) | Free |
| Acceptance Agent | 11-13 weeks | Original (certified by agent) | Agent fees vary |
| Certifying Acceptance Agent | 11-13 weeks | Original (returned immediately) | $50-$200 typical |
ITIN Renewal Requirements
ITINs must be renewed if:
- Not used on a tax return for 3 consecutive years
- Issued before 2013 (all expired)
- Middle digits are in expired range (check IRS website)
Common Rejection Reasons: Applying without a tax return (when no exception applies), submitting photocopies instead of certified copies, missing signatures, incorrect supporting documentation, applying for wrong tax year. One rejection can delay your refund by months.
Exceptions to Tax Return Requirement
You can apply for an ITIN without a tax return only if you meet one of these exceptions:
- Exception 1(a): Third-party withholding on passive income
- Exception 1(b): Claiming tax treaty benefits on wages
- Exception 1(c): Scholarship/fellowship/grant recipient
- Exception 1(d): FIRPTA withholding on real estate sale
- Exception 1(e): Partnership/LLC with ECI
- Exception 2: Home mortgage interest reporting
- Exception 3: Pension/annuity withholding
- Exception 4: Gaming winnings treaty claim
- Exception 5: T.D. 9363 rental income withholding
Pro Tip: As an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA), we can help you get your ITIN urgently. We certify your original documents, like your passport, so you don't have to mail them to the IRS. Let us help you get started today!
What about US gift and estate taxes for non-resident aliens?
Non-resident aliens face a dramatically different gift and estate tax regime than US citizens and residents. With a minimal estate tax exemption of only $60,000 (compared to $13.99 million for US citizens in 2025), proper planning is essential to avoid devastating tax consequences for your heirs.
US Gift Tax for Non-Resident Aliens
The gift tax rules for NRAs present both traps and significant planning opportunities. Understanding what's taxable versus what's exempt can save thousands in taxes and enable sophisticated wealth transfer strategies.
What Gifts Are Subject to US Gift Tax?
Taxable Gifts (Real and Tangible Property):
- US real estate (homes, land, commercial property)
- Tangible personal property physically in the US:
- Artwork and collectibles located in the US
- Jewelry stored in the US
- Vehicles registered in the US
- Physical cash in the US
- Furniture and personal effects in US homes
Non-Taxable Gifts (Intangible Property) - Major Planning Opportunity:
- US corporate stocks - Even Fortune 500 companies!
- US bonds and debt obligations
- Cash in US bank accounts
- US brokerage account balances
- Partnership and LLC interests (if not holding US real estate)
- Life insurance policies
- Intellectual property rights
Massive Planning Opportunity: An NRA can gift unlimited amounts of US stocks and securities to anyone without US gift tax! A $10 million portfolio of Apple stock? Tax-free gift. This is one of the most powerful planning tools for wealthy non-resident aliens.
Gift Tax Exclusions and Limits
| Type of Exclusion | 2024 Amount | 2025 Amount | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Exclusion | $18,000 per recipient | $19,000 per recipient | Unlimited number of recipients |
| Non-Citizen Spouse | $185,000 | $190,000 | Annual limit for non-citizen spouses |
| US Citizen Spouse | Unlimited | Unlimited | Marital deduction applies |
| Lifetime Exemption | N/A for gifts | N/A for gifts | $60,000 only applies at death |
US Estate Tax for Non-Resident Aliens
The US estate tax rules for NRAs are far more punitive than gift tax rules, with a broader definition of US-sited assets and a minimal exemption that hasn't been updated since 1976.
What's Subject to US Estate Tax?
Critical Difference from Gift Tax: While US stocks can be gifted tax-free during life, they ARE subject to estate tax at death. This creates a "use it or lose it" scenario for lifetime planning.
US-Sited Assets (Taxable):
- US real estate
- US corporate stocks (even if held through foreign broker)
- Tangible personal property in the US
- US partnership interests conducting US business
- Certain debt obligations of US persons
- US business assets
- Some US mutual funds and ETFs
Non-US Sited Assets (Not Taxable):
- US bank deposits (statutory exemption)
- US portfolio debt obligations (if qualify)
- Life insurance proceeds (if properly structured)
- Foreign corporate stocks
- Foreign real estate
- Assets in foreign accounts
The $60,000 Exemption Problem
NRA Estate Tax Comparison
US Citizens/Residents
2024 Exemption: $13.61 million
2025 Exemption: $13.99 million
Top Tax Rate: 40%
Unlimited marital deduction
Non-Resident Aliens
2024 Exemption: $60,000
2025 Exemption: $60,000
Top Tax Rate: 40%
No marital deduction*
*Unless spouse is US citizen or special trust (QDOT) is used
Planning Strategies for NRAs
Lifetime Gift Planning
- Gift US stocks before death: Tax-free during life, taxable at death
- Annual exclusion gifts: $19,000/year to unlimited recipients
- Spousal gifts: Up to $190,000/year to non-citizen spouse
- Generation-skipping: Gift directly to grandchildren
Estate Tax Reduction Strategies
- Life insurance: Hold through foreign corporation or trust
- Foreign corporation ownership: Hold US assets through foreign entity
- Sell before death: Convert US stocks to cash or foreign assets
- Qualified Domestic Trust (QDOT): Defer tax on transfers to non-citizen spouse
Compliance and Reporting
Form 706-NA: Estate Tax Return for NRAs
Required when gross US estate plus adjusted taxable gifts exceed $60,000:
- Due 9 months after death (6-month extension available)
- Must include inventory of all US assets
- Requires valuation documentation
- Executor personally liable if not filed
Form 709: Gift Tax Return
Required for taxable gifts of US real/tangible property:
- Due April 15 following year of gift
- Must report all gifts exceeding annual exclusion
- Spouse must consent for gift splitting
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late: Estate planning for NRAs requires action during lifetime. Once death occurs, most planning opportunities disappear. The combination of the $60,000 exemption and 40% tax rate can devastate family wealth without proper planning.
Disclaimer: The information in this page is provided for general reference only and should not be considered professional tax advice. Before making any decisions or taking action based on this information, you should seek appropriate professional guidance. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and completeness, no guarantee is provided, and we accept no responsibility or liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information provided on this page.