Ohio Guide for Canadians

Quick Facts

State Income Tax	0%, 2.75%, and 3.5% progressive rates (2025)
Sales Tax	5.75% state + local (average 7.24% total)
Driver's License Grace Period	30 days for residents
Residency Requirement for Tax	Domiciled in Ohio or resident for more than 183 days
Vehicle Registration Deadline	30 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 Ohio driver's license (within 30 days)
• Register vehicle if brought from Canada (within 30 days)
• Register to vote

Month 2-3: Establishing Residency

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

Driver's License & Vehicle Requirements

For Canadian Citizens

Required Documents:

• Original valid Canadian passport
• Proof of Social Security Number or ITIN (if applicable)
• Two proofs of Ohio residential address

Testing Requirements:

• Written test required for Canadian citizens
• Road test required - Ohio does not recognize foreign licenses
• Vision screening required (minimum 20/40 vision)

Important Notes:

• 30-day limit to get Ohio license after residency
• REAL ID required by May 7, 2025 for air travel
• Both written and road tests required for Canadians
• Temporary license plates available for up to 1 year for tourists

Vehicle Registration

• Register within 30 days of establishing residency
• Vehicle inspection not required for registration
• Emissions testing required in certain counties
• Ohio insurance required for registration

Tax & Residency Considerations

Ohio State Tax Benefits

• **Low progressive income tax** 0% to 3.5% with three brackets
• **No inheritance tax**
• **Moderate property taxes** (1.31% effective rate)
• **Reasonable sales tax** 5.75% state rate

Establishing Ohio Tax Residency

Ohio residency is based on domicile or physical presence:

• Domiciled in Ohio at any time during tax year, OR
• Resident for more than 183 days during tax year
• Intent to make Ohio your permanent home

Documentation to Establish Residency

• Ohio driver's license and voter registration
• Bank accounts and utility bills in Ohio
• Employment or business activities in Ohio
• 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

• Ohio has no public health insurance for non-citizens
• Travel insurance strongly recommended
• Consider US health insurance if staying permanently
• Quality medical facilities in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus

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 (183-day rule)
• Maintain Canadian insurance & banking relationships
• Ohio's domicile-based residency requires careful planning

Property Considerations

• Affordable property values in most areas
• Homestead exemption available (up to $27,200 for seniors)
• Impact on Canada's principal residence exemption
• Generally stable real estate market

Climate & Lifestyle Benefits

• Four distinct seasons with moderate temperatures
• Lower cost of living than coastal states
• Rich cultural attractions and sports teams
• Growing Canadian expat community in major cities

Travel Documentation

• Ensure passport validity (6+ months remaining)
• Consider Global Entry/NEXUS for easier border crossings
• Track domicile establishment and 183-day rule carefully
• No Enhanced Driver's License available in Ohio

Midwest Value

Ohio offers excellent value with its low progressive income tax system, affordable cost of living, and friendly Midwest culture. The state provides easy access to major metropolitan areas while maintaining reasonable living costs.

Key Contacts & Resources