It might seem counterintuitive to a US citizen or permanent resident (i.e., green card holder) who has just taken a new international job, that they may still be required to file a US federal income tax return after relocating. In addition, these international mobile employees may have other filing obligations including estate or gift tax returns, estimated tax payments, and foreign bank account reports.
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Author Alina Hagness
Alina Hagness is a Senior Manager at GTN with over a decade of experience providing expatriate tax services. She supports international assignees, remote workers, and business travelers in minimizing double taxation and maintaining global tax compliance. Alina’s work spans assignment administration, international payroll compliance, remote work structuring, and complex foreign financial asset reporting. Known for her responsiveness and attention to detail, she helps make complex tax concepts clear and actionable. She is a member of both the Minnesota Society of CPAs and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
Navigating the complex landscape of US tax regulations can be daunting, especially for individuals who may have inadvertently found themselves delinquent in their tax filings. Many Americans living abroad, including "accidental Americans"—those who hold US citizenship by birth but have never lived or worked in the US—are often unaware of their obligation to file US tax returns. And this lack of awareness can lead to unfiled returns and substantial penalties.
Navigating US Tax Reporting for Foreign Assets
on June 12, 2025
| By Alina Hagness
|
Global Mobility,
Mobility Tax,
FBAR,
Foreign Financial Investments,
Streamlined Compliance
Whether you're a US citizen or green card holder living abroad—or supporting employees who are—the US tax system presents unique challenges. Unlike most countries, the United States taxes individuals based on citizenship rather than residency. As a result, US citizens and green card holders must file annual US income tax returns and report worldwide income and gains, no matter where they live or work.
Reporting Obligations of US Taxpayers with Foreign Financial Investments
on February 22, 2024
| By Alina Hagness
|
Foreign Bank Account Reporting,
Foreign Financial Investments,
International Information Returns
Navigating the complexities of global mobility demands meticulous attention to various factors. One critical, yet often overlooked factor, is the evolving landscape of reporting obligations for US taxpayers with international financial investments. The success of employee transitions across borders requires not only seamless relocation but also adhering to intricate compliance requirements in an ever-changing regulatory environment.
