foreignresident

A foreign resident is an individual who resides in a country other than their country of citizenship. The phrase is commonly used in immigration, taxation, and public policy to distinguish non-citizens who live in a country from native citizens and from temporary visitors. The precise meaning and rights attached to being a foreign resident vary by jurisdiction and by context.

In taxation, foreign residents are often treated differently from citizens or long-term residents. Some jurisdictions tax residents on worldwide income, while non-residents are taxed only on income sourced there. In the United States, the terms resident alien and nonresident alien describe tax status; a resident alien generally pays tax like a US citizen, based on worldwide income, while a nonresident alien is taxed only on certain US-sourced income. Residency can be established by visa status, permanent residence, or the amount of physical presence under a substantial presence test.

In immigration and social policy, being a foreign resident can affect work authorization, access to public benefits, and voting rights. Many countries require foreign residents to register with local authorities, obtain a residence permit, or renew visas. Public services, healthcare, and education access may be limited or subject to additional criteria for non-citizens.

Because the term lacks a single universal definition, the meaning of foreign resident must be understood relative to the specific country’s laws and policy framework.