New Hampshire Guide for Canadians

Quick Facts

State Income Tax	0% on wages and salaries (Interest & Dividends tax eliminated 2025)
Sales Tax	0% - No state or local sales tax
Driver's License Grace Period	60 days for residents
Residency Requirement for Tax	Domiciled in New Hampshire
Vehicle Registration Deadline	60 days for residents
REAL ID Deadline	May 7, 2025 for domestic flights

First 90 Days Checklist

Week 1-2: Essential Documents

• Gather required documents for driver's license
• Open US bank account
• Set up temporary mailing address

Week 3-4: Official Registration

• Apply for New Hampshire driver's license (within 60 days)
• Register vehicle if brought from Canada (within 60 days)
• Register to vote

Month 2-3: Establishing Residency

• Update address with Canadian financial institutions
• Establish New Hampshire ties
• Consider New Hampshire vehicle insurance

Driver's License & Vehicle Requirements

For Canadian Citizens

Required Documents:

• Original valid Canadian passport
• Proof of Social Security Number or ineligibility letter
• Two proofs of New Hampshire residential address

Testing Requirements:

• Canadian licenses MAY transfer without testing if valid or expired less than 1 year
• Knowledge test required if license transfer not accepted
• Road test may be required based on license history
• Vision screening required

Important Notes:

• 60-day limit to get New Hampshire license after residency
• REAL ID required by May 7, 2025 for air travel
• Canadian licenses from some provinces may transfer without testing

Vehicle Registration

• Register within 60 days of establishing residency
• VIN verification required for out-of-state vehicles
• Annual safety inspection required
• New Hampshire insurance required for registration

Tax & Residency Considerations

New Hampshire State Tax Benefits

• **No state income tax** on wages and salaries
• **No sales tax** - One of only 5 states with no general sales tax
• **No inheritance tax**
• **Higher property taxes** (1.61% effective rate) to fund state services

Establishing New Hampshire Tax Residency

New Hampshire residency is based on domicile:

• Domiciled in New Hampshire
• Intent to make New Hampshire your permanent home
• Physical presence supporting domicile intent

Documentation to Establish Residency

• New Hampshire driver's license and voter registration
• Bank accounts and utility bills in New Hampshire
• Employment or business activities in New Hampshire
• Professional licenses, club memberships

US Federal Tax Implications for Canadians

Important: Under the Substantial Presence Test, you may be considered a U.S. resident for tax purposes.
Recommendation: Consult a cross-border tax professional.

Healthcare Considerations

Insurance Options

• New Hampshire has no public health insurance for non-citizens
• Travel insurance strongly recommended
• Consider US health insurance if staying permanently
• Quality medical facilities in Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth

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

Maintaining Canadian Ties

• Keep principal residence in Canada
• Monitor days in U.S. for tax reasons
• Maintain Canadian insurance & banking relationships
• New Hampshire's domicile-based residency requires careful planning

Property Considerations

• Higher property values, especially near Boston
• No state income tax offset by higher property taxes
• Impact on Canada's principal residence exemption
• Consider proximity to Massachusetts for services

Climate & Lifestyle Benefits

• Four distinct seasons with harsh winters
• Beautiful White Mountains and lakes region
• Close proximity to Boston and coastal areas
• Active Canadian expat community in southern regions

Travel Documentation

• Ensure passport validity (6+ months remaining)
• Consider Global Entry/NEXUS for easier border crossings
• Track domicile establishment carefully
• No Enhanced Driver's License available in New Hampshire

Tax Haven Status

New Hampshire's motto 'Live Free or Die' reflects its tax-friendly approach. With no income or sales tax, it's one of the most tax-advantaged states for retirees, though property taxes are higher to compensate.

Key Contacts & Resources