border patrol
I have a question that has been asked me by a couple of american friends. They wonder why I worry about the 182 day limit. I try to explain that their uncle sam would then want to tax me as a resident...
Forum Discussion
almcc wrote:
I'm not sure if the OP knows that the number of days isn't 182 but 120 that's calculated by a IRS formula, if you exceed that number filling in a form (an 8840) indicates you have a closer connection that may avoid taxation.
Yes, data is shared and every time I go through one of those border checks in the south west US the vehicle (and I) get photographed!
Yep. Very good point. Our accountant reminds us every year to fill out the 8840 although we are usually only around 120 days in the US anyway. This is however an IRS issue. Immigration is 182 days.
There are essentially three time periods to be aware of.
* IRS time limit of 120 days (after which you need to fill out the 8840
* US Immigration of 182 days after which yo will be deported and receive a 5 year ban from coming back in.
* Your province or territory health care restrictions. This can be as short as 180 days to 364 days per year depending on your province or territory. Canada places no restrictions on how long you can be out of the country or province. However if you are gone longer than the limit your provincial limit your province prescribes you will have to pay for any health care you receive for the first 90 days upon your return. Not a big deal if you are young and healthy. Health care in Canada is relatively cheap anyway and its worth it for some to roll the dice. This situations pops up for people who travel out of the country a lot in a year. It happened to us once when we were in the US for 4 1/2 months and Europe for 3 months one year. For those in that situation who feel they need insurance you can buy a 3 month plan at an insurance agent to cover you till your 90 day waiting period in the province is up. Immigrants are encouraged to do this. We don't bother.
