ARTICLE · 28 MAY 2013

I Need A Green Card, Or Do I?

Crowe Soberman LLP

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When an athlete signs with a US team, one of the most common questions I hear is: "How do I get a green card?"

CanadaTax

Jeffrey Steinberg

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When an athlete signs with a US team, one of the most common questions I hear is: "How do I get a green card?" In most cases, the athlete does not know why he wants it, or is unaware of the obligations that come with holding a green card. Let us take a closer look.

Filing requirements

As a green card holder, you are considered a US resident and are required to file a US tax return, irrespective of where you live. This means you report your worldwide income and may have to pay US tax on that income. For example, a hockey player living in Canada possessing a green card would be subject to taxation in both Canada and the United States and he would effectively pay the higher of the two rates.

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