It is no secret that the U.S. tax code is complicated. Compliance with U.S. tax laws is particularly onerous for foreign persons, especially when considering that different rules apply for income and estate tax purposes, and neither depends on an individual’s immigration status.
For income tax purposes, the U.S. presumes foreign persons to be nonresident aliens (NRAs) who must pay taxes only on income they derive from U.S. sources. Once NRAs apply for green cards or spend a specific and substantial number of days in the U.S., they are considered resident aliens (RAs) who, like U.S. citizens, must pay U.S. income tax on their worldwide income.
In contrast, foreign persons’ exposure to U.S. gift and estate tax depends on their “domicile” at the time of death or the country they call home. Unlike the facts-based tests for determining income tax residency, U.S. domicile considers the more esoteric evidence of a person’s “intent” to remain in the country based on such factors as the location of a primary residence, business, or personal belongings. Nonresident domiciliaries are subject to U.S. gift and estate tax only on assets situated in the U.S. at the time of death. In contrast, U.S. resident domiciliaries must pay estate and transfer taxes on their worldwide assets.
U.S. domiciled residents who pass away must file U.S. estate tax returns only when the fair market value of their worldwide assets at the time of death exceeds the individual estate tax unified credit exemption of $13.99 in 2025. Married couples filing joint tax returns in 2025 can shield up to $27.98 million. While these generous estate tax exemptions are scheduled to be cut in half in 2026, the new administration will likely extend them further.
When nonresident U.S. domiciliaries pass away, their estates must file U.S. estate tax returns if the fair market value of the decedent’s U.S.-situated assets at death exceeds $60,000. Estate taxes are due on U.S. situated assets that include tangible personal property, interest in and holdings of U.S. real estate, and securities of U.S. companies. Excluded from estate tax are investments that generate portfolio interest, bank accounts that are not connected with a U.S. trade or business, and insurance proceeds.
Foreign persons who have a physical presence in the U.S. or who hold interest in or title to assets situated in the country must work with experienced financial advisors and tax accountants before stepping foot on U.S. soil to mitigate unnecessary exposure to income and estate taxes both in their home country and the U.S.
About the Author: Melvin Perez, CFP®, is a financial planner with Provenance Wealth Advisors (PWA), an Independent Registered Investment advisor affiliated with Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors + CPAs and a registered representative with PWA Securities, LLC. He can be reached at the firm’s Miami office at (800) 737-8804 or at info@provwealth.com.
Provenance Wealth Advisors (PWA), 200 S. Biscayne Blvd., Miami FL 33131 (800) 737-8804.
Melvin Perez, CFP® is a registered representative of and offers securities through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC.
This material is being provided for information purposes only and is not a complete description, nor is it a recommendation. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct.
Any opinions are those of the advisors of PWA and not necessarily those of PWA Securities, LLC. While we are familiar with the tax provisions of the issues presented herein, as Financial Advisors of PWAS, we are not qualified to render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. Prior to making any investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation.
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Updated on July 14, 2025