Kansas Guide for Canadians

Quick Facts

State Income Tax	3.1% to 5.7% on income over $15,000
Sales Tax	6.5% state + local (average 8.7%)
Driver's License Grace Period	90 days for residents
Residency Requirement for Tax	Kansas domicile or 183+ days with permanent place of abode
Vehicle Registration Deadline	30 days after establishing residency
REAL ID Deadline	May 7, 2025 for domestic flights
Enhanced Driver's License	Not available

First 90 Days Checklist

Week 1-2: Essential Documents & Registration

• Register with USCIS if staying 30+ days (required by April 11, 2025)
• Gather required documents for driver's license
• Open US bank account
• Set up Kansas mailing address

Week 3-4: Official Registration

• Apply for Kansas driver's license (within 90 days)
• Complete knowledge test, vision screening, and road test
• Begin vehicle registration process (within 30 days)
• Register to vote (if eligible)

Month 2-3: Establishing Residency

• Update address with Canadian financial institutions
• Complete vehicle registration and titling
• Establish Kansas ties and connections
• Research healthcare options and insurance

Driver's License & Vehicle Requirements

For Canadian Citizens

Required Documents:

• Valid unexpired foreign passport with valid U.S. entry marking (List B)
• Social Security Number document or proof of non-work status exemption (List D)
• Two proofs of Kansas residency (List C)
• Out-of-state credential if applicable (List G)

Testing Requirements:

• Knowledge test required for all new applicants
• Vision screening required
• Road skills test required - Kansas does not accept foreign licenses
• SAVE verification required for all non-U.S. citizens (may require additional visit)

REAL ID Option:

• Available for qualifying non-citizens with proper documentation
• Required for domestic air travel after May 7, 2025
• Enhanced Driver's License not available in Kansas
• Passport required for international travel

Important Notes:

• 90-day limit to get Kansas license after establishing residency
• SAVE verification process may delay issuance
• Must present original documents - no copies accepted
• Additional documentation may be required for certain visa classifications

Vehicle Registration

• Register within 30 days of establishing residency
• Must obtain Kansas title before registration
• Registration fees based on vehicle age and value
• Kansas insurance required for registration
• Annual registration renewal required

Tax & Residency Considerations

Kansas State Tax Structure

• **Income tax rates** 3.1% to 5.7% (no tax on first $15,000 for married filing jointly)
• **Retirement income** partially taxed - Social Security exempt, pensions taxed
• **Property taxes** vary by county (average effective rate around 1.4%)
• **Sales tax** 6.5% state + local (average 8.7%)
• **No inheritance tax** on estates

Establishing Kansas Tax Residency

Kansas residency is based on domicile or physical presence:

• Domiciled in Kansas (intent to make permanent home)
• Present in Kansas for 183+ days with permanent place of abode
• Maintaining a permanent place of abode for entire tax year makes you resident
• Kansas driver's license and voter registration help establish domicile

Documentation to Establish Residency

• Kansas driver's license and voter registration
• Bank accounts and utility bills in Kansas
• Employment or business activities in Kansas
• Property ownership or long-term lease agreements
• Professional licenses and club memberships

Tax Benefits

Kansas offers moderate tax rates with the first $15,000 of income tax-free for married couples. Property taxes are reasonable, and there's no inheritance tax, making it attractive for middle-income residents.

High Sales Tax

Kansas has one of the higher combined state and local sales tax rates in the nation at 8.7% average. This can significantly impact your cost of living, especially for major purchases.

US Federal Tax Implications for Canadians

Important: Under the Substantial Presence Test, you may be considered a U.S. resident for tax purposes.
New Requirement: Canadians staying 30+ days must register with USCIS by April 11, 2025.
Recommendation: Consult a cross-border tax professional.

Healthcare Considerations

Insurance Options

• Kansas has not expanded Medicaid (limited eligibility for non-citizens)
• Travel insurance strongly recommended
• Consider US health insurance if staying permanently
• Quality medical facilities in Kansas City, Wichita, and Topeka

Prescription Medications

• Bring adequate supply from Canada
• Understand prescription transfer requirements
• US prices often higher than Canadian prices
• Research pharmacy options and discount programs

Special Considerations for Snowbirds

New US Registration Requirements (2025)

• Canadians staying 30+ days must register with USCIS
• Registration required by April 11, 2025
• Print and carry latest I-94 as proof of legal entry
• Failure to register may affect future US travel

Maintaining Canadian Ties

• Keep principal residence in Canada
• Monitor days in U.S. for tax reasons (183-day rule)
• Maintain Canadian insurance & banking relationships
• Kansas's permanent place of abode rule requires careful planning

Property Considerations

• Very affordable property values throughout most of the state
• Property tax rates vary by county but generally reasonable
• Various local tax exemptions available
• Impact on Canada's principal residence exemption

Climate & Lifestyle Factors

• Continental climate with hot summers, cold winters
• Tornado season (spring/early summer) requires awareness and preparation
• Low cost of living compared to most U.S. states
• Strong agricultural economy with growing technology sector

Border Proximity Considerations

• No direct border with Canada - nearest crossing in North Dakota
• Enhanced Driver's License not available in Kansas
• NEXUS/Global Entry beneficial for border crossings
• Consider travel distance to Canadian services when choosing location

Travel Documentation

• Ensure passport validity (6+ months remaining)
• Consider Global Entry/NEXUS for easier border crossings
• Enhanced Driver's License not available in Kansas
• I-94 registration now required for 30+ day stays

Central Location Benefits

Kansas offers a central U.S. location with easy access to major cities like Kansas City, Denver, and Dallas. The state provides affordable living with moderate taxes and a stable economy.

Key Contacts & Resources