Wisconsin Guide for Canadians

Quick Facts

State Income Tax	Progressive 3.5% to 7.65%
Sales Tax	5% state + local (5.43% average)
Driver's License Grace Period	60 days for residents
Residency Requirement for Tax	183+ days or domicile in Wisconsin
Vehicle Registration Deadline	60 days for residents
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 Wisconsin mailing address

Week 3-4: Official Registration

• Apply for Wisconsin driver's license (within 60 days)
• Register vehicle if brought from Canada (within 60 days)
• Register to vote (if eligible)
• Update address with financial institutions

Month 2-3: Establishing Residency

• Establish Wisconsin ties and connections
• Research healthcare options and insurance
• Connect with local Canadian communities
• Consider property ownership or long-term lease

Driver's License & Vehicle Requirements

For Canadian Citizens

Required Documents:

• Original valid Canadian passport (proof of legal presence)
• Social Security Number documentation (if applicable)
• Two proofs of Wisconsin residential address
• Birth certificate or citizenship documents for identity

Testing Requirements:

• Written knowledge test required for Canadian citizens
• Road skills test required - Wisconsin does not recognize foreign licenses
• Vision screening required
• International Driving Permit recommended for first year

REAL ID Option:

• Available for qualifying Canadian residents
• Required for domestic air travel after May 7, 2025
• Additional documentation required
• Process at full-service DMV office

Important Notes:

• 60-day limit to get Wisconsin license after residency
• REAL ID required by May 7, 2025 for air travel
• After one year, must obtain Wisconsin license
• Keep International Driving Permit with foreign license

Vehicle Registration

• Register within 60 days of establishing residency
• No vehicle inspections required
• No vehicle sales tax
• Wisconsin insurance required for registration
• Non-residents can register without proof of residency

Tax & Residency Considerations

Wisconsin State Tax Structure

• **Progressive income tax** 3.5% to 7.65% based on income
• **No additional local income tax** in most areas
• **Estate tax** repealed - no state estate tax
• **Moderate property taxes** (1.85% effective rate)
• **Low sales tax** 5% state + local (5.43% average)

Establishing Wisconsin Tax Residency

Wisconsin residency is based on domicile and statutory residence:

• Domiciled in Wisconsin (intent to make permanent home)
• Statutory resident: 183+ days in tax year
• Maintaining permanent place of abode in Wisconsin

Documentation to Establish Residency

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

Moderate Tax Environment

Wisconsin has a moderate tax burden compared to other states. The top income tax rate of 7.65% is reasonable, and there are no additional local income taxes in most areas. Property taxes are moderate, and sales tax is among the lower rates nationally.

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

• Wisconsin has standard Medicaid with limited access for non-citizens
• Travel insurance strongly recommended
• Consider US health insurance if staying permanently
• Quality medical facilities in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay

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
• Wisconsin domicile-based residency requires careful planning

Property Considerations

• Moderate property values compared to coastal states
• Reasonable property tax rates (1.85% effective)
• Various local tax exemptions available
• Impact on Canada's principal residence exemption

Climate & Lifestyle Factors

• Four distinct seasons with cold, snowy winters
• Strong outdoor recreation culture (fishing, hunting, boating)
• Moderate cost of living compared to coastal states
• Strong Canadian communities, especially in border areas

Border Proximity Advantages

• Close to Minnesota/Ontario border crossing
• Easy access to Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area
• NEXUS/Global Entry beneficial for border crossings
• Relatively easy access to Canadian healthcare and services

Travel Documentation

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

Midwest Value Proposition

Wisconsin offers a good balance of moderate taxes, reasonable cost of living, and quality of life. The state is known for its friendly culture, outdoor recreation opportunities, and strong communities. Winter weather is significant but manageable with proper preparation.

Key Contacts & Resources