Wyoming Guide for Canadians

Quick Facts

State Income Tax	No state income tax
Sales Tax	4% state + local (average 5.4%)
Driver's License Grace Period	120 days for residents
Residency Requirement for Tax	Wyoming 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 Wyoming mailing address

Week 3-4: Official Registration

• Apply for Wyoming driver's license (within 120 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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming 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 - Wyoming 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 Wyoming
• Passport required for international travel

Important Notes:

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

Tax & Residency Considerations

Wyoming State Tax Structure

• **No state income tax** - major advantage for residents
• **Sales tax** 4% state + local (average 5.4%)
• **Property taxes** among lowest in nation (average effective rate around 0.6%)
• **No inheritance tax** on estates
• **Business-friendly** environment with minimal corporate taxes

Establishing Wyoming Tax Residency

Wyoming residency is based on domicile or physical presence:

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

Documentation to Establish Residency

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

Tax Benefits

Wyoming offers exceptional tax advantages with no state income tax, low sales tax, and very low property taxes. The business-friendly environment makes it attractive for entrepreneurs and retirees seeking tax efficiency.

Limited Services

Wyoming's low tax burden comes with trade-offs including limited public services, fewer cultural amenities, and a sparse population. The state relies heavily on energy industry revenues which can be volatile.

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

• Wyoming has not expanded Medicaid (limited eligibility for non-citizens)
• Travel insurance strongly recommended
• Consider US health insurance if staying permanently
• Quality medical facilities in Cheyenne, Casper, and Jackson

Prescription Medications

• Bring adequate supply from Canada
• Understand prescription transfer requirements
• US prices often higher than Canadian prices
• Limited pharmacy options in rural areas

Rural Healthcare Challenges

• Limited healthcare facilities in rural areas
• Long distances to specialized medical care
• Consider medical evacuation insurance for remote areas
• Emergency services may have longer response times

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
• Wyoming's permanent place of abode rule requires careful planning

Property Considerations

• Property values vary dramatically by location (Jackson Hole vs. rural areas)
• Very low property tax rates throughout the state
• Various local tax exemptions available
• Impact on Canada's principal residence exemption

Climate & Lifestyle Factors

• High altitude and continental climate with harsh winters
• Strong winds and extreme weather conditions
• Short growing season and limited fresh food availability
• Rural lifestyle with outdoor recreation opportunities

Border Proximity Considerations

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

Western Lifestyle Benefits

Wyoming offers stunning mountain and prairie landscapes, exceptional tax advantages, and a true Western lifestyle. Perfect for those seeking wide open spaces, outdoor recreation, and minimal government interference.

Rural Living Challenges

Harsh winters, high altitude, strong winds, and sparse population create challenges. Limited services, long distances to amenities, and extreme weather require preparation and self-sufficiency.

Key Contacts & Resources