Nonresidents

Nonresident is a term used in law and policy to describe a person who does not meet the residency requirements of a jurisdiction. The designation appears in taxation, immigration, education, real estate, and voting. Rules vary by country and purpose, so nonresidents are not a single, uniform category.

Residency tests are defined by each jurisdiction and may rely on physical presence, intent, and ties such as employment, housing, or family. Some systems use days-based tests; others use a mix of criteria. Thresholds may change for tax, immigration, or social programs, so status can shift with time.

Taxation: Residents are often taxed on worldwide income, while nonresidents are taxed on income sourced within the country, typically with different rates and withholding. Nonresidents may file returns, claim treaty benefits, or have fewer deductions. Tax rules depend on the jurisdiction and on source and residency definitions.

Immigration and civil rights: Nonresidents are usually in a country on temporary purposes and have restricted access to benefits. They typically cannot vote in national elections and may have limited public services. Some jurisdictions allow long-term nonresidents to acquire resident status after meeting conditions.

Other contexts: Nonresidence can affect property ownership, business activity, and education costs. For example, some places limit land ownership by nonresidents or charge higher tuition to nonresident students.

Because definitions of nonresidence vary, it is important to consult jurisdiction-specific rules to determine rights, obligations, and eligibility in any given context.