West Virginia Guide for Canadians

Quick Facts

State Income Tax	3% to 6.5% on income over $10,000
Sales Tax	6% state + local (average 7.0%)
Driver's License Grace Period	30 days for residents
Residency Requirement for Tax	West Virginia 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 West Virginia mailing address

Week 3-4: Official Registration

• Apply for West Virginia driver's license (within 30 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 West Virginia 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 West Virginia 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 - West Virginia 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 West Virginia
• Passport required for international travel

Important Notes:

• 30-day limit to get West Virginia 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 West Virginia title before registration
• Registration fees based on vehicle age and value
• West Virginia insurance required for registration
• Annual registration renewal required

Tax & Residency Considerations

West Virginia State Tax Structure

• **Income tax rates** 3% to 6.5% (no tax on first $10,000 for married filing jointly)
• **Retirement income** partially taxed - Social Security exempt, pensions taxed
• **Property taxes** among lowest in nation (average effective rate around 0.6%)
• **Sales tax** 6% state + local (average 7.0%)
• **No inheritance tax** on estates

Establishing West Virginia Tax Residency

West Virginia residency is based on domicile or physical presence:

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

Documentation to Establish Residency

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

Tax Benefits

West Virginia offers very low property taxes (among lowest in nation) and moderate income tax rates. The first $10,000 of income is tax-free for married couples, and there's no inheritance tax, making it very attractive for retirees and middle-income residents.

Economic Challenges

West Virginia has faced economic challenges with declining coal industry. While this creates opportunities for affordable living, it also means fewer employment opportunities and slower economic growth compared to other states.

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

• West Virginia expanded Medicaid (limited eligibility for non-citizens)
• Travel insurance strongly recommended
• Consider US health insurance if staying permanently
• Quality medical facilities in Charleston, Morgantown, and Martinsburg

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
• West Virginia's permanent place of abode rule requires careful planning

Property Considerations

• Very affordable property values throughout the state
• Extremely low property tax rates (lowest in nation)
• Various local tax exemptions available for seniors
• Impact on Canada's principal residence exemption

Climate & Lifestyle Factors

• Four-season climate with mild summers, moderate winters
• Mountainous terrain with beautiful scenery but challenging winter driving
• Very low cost of living - among lowest in U.S.
• Rural lifestyle with outdoor recreation opportunities

Border Proximity Considerations

• No direct border with Canada - nearest crossing in Pennsylvania
• Enhanced Driver's License not available in West Virginia
• 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 West Virginia
• I-94 registration now required for 30+ day stays

Mountain Living Benefits

West Virginia offers stunning mountain scenery, extremely affordable living costs, and the lowest property taxes in the nation. Perfect for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with access to outdoor recreation.

Rural Challenges

Limited public transportation, fewer urban amenities, and mountainous terrain can make winter travel challenging. Internet connectivity may be limited in remote areas.

Key Contacts & Resources