PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - Current JAA pilot marrying an American and moving to the States
Old 20th March 2009 | 23:58
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BelArgUSA
 
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,420
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From: AEP
Moving to USA - Advice

Getting married and moving to USA (to be a pilot) should be no problem, under normal circumstances and employment. But no need to repeat again a description of today's situation in the number of pilot's job openings, either USA or the rest of the world.
xxx
Getting married, fine and dandy, easy way to get the "green card", and 3 years later, be eligible for USA citizenship. Then think about getting your FAA pilot certificates, maybe you have one already... but no job available. My first suggestion is that you keep your overseas employment until things get better.
xxx
Have you thought about US taxation laws (IRS)...? Probably not...
Once you obtain a green card ("USA Resident") you are subject to federal and state taxation. It may not be to your advantage. All of the couple's combined US and foreign income is subject to USA taxation. I would suggest you see a good tax accountant before getting married, and signing the piece of paper.
xxx
You should maybe consider staying "single" and keep that job overseas (and log more hours as a pilot), and when in the USA, visit with a tourist visa as often as you can, and not be subject to income tax.
xxx
As your tax advisor will tell you, there might be other solutions. As example, getting married overseas (no requirement to declare) and wait until a pilot job is obtained in USA for legal marriage, then apply for "green card". Some other suggestions might be separate income tax returns. I am not a tax advisor.
xxx
I know the above problems quite well, European born, I got a green card in USA, then became USA citizen, later moved again, to South America, got married there, got another citizenship, and became aware of very serous tax problems with the USA.
xxx
Did you know as an example, that a "green card" holder, or a USA citizen is always subject to USA taxation, even if he/she resides and works permanently overseas. Not many countries subject their citizens to such obligation. That green card might cost you, a few thousands of dollars every year. Is it worth it, while you have no job (yet) in the USA...?
xxx

Happy contrails
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