Tax Filing for Digital Nomads Living Abroad
US tax obligations follow you wherever you work. FileAbroad helps digital nomads navigate FEIE qualification across multiple countries, self-employment tax, and the filing path that fits a borderless lifestyle.
Common Challenges
You move between countries and aren't sure which country counts for FEIE qualification.
You work remotely for a US company and wonder if your income qualifies for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion.
You are self-employed and unsure how SE tax applies when you are outside the US.
You have no fixed tax home and worry about state tax obligations chasing you.
You have never filed from abroad and don't know where to start.
How FileAbroad Helps
Review your travel history to determine whether you meet the Physical Presence Test (330 days) or can establish a Bona Fide Residence.
Calculate whether the FEIE or the Foreign Tax Credit saves you more, based on the countries where you pay tax.
Prepare Schedule C and quarterly estimated tax payments for self-employed nomads.
Screen catch-up filing options if you are behind on returns or FBARs.
Provide a written scope and exact quote before any work begins.
Resources for Digital Nomads
Pricing
Digital nomad returns vary based on countries visited, income sources, and whether you need catch-up filings. Straightforward annual returns start at $575. Complex or multi-year cases receive a custom quote after the free intake review.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do digital nomads have to file US taxes?
Yes. US citizens and green card holders must file a federal tax return on worldwide income regardless of where they live or work. The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion and Foreign Tax Credit can reduce or eliminate your US tax liability, but the filing obligation remains.
Can I claim the FEIE if I move between countries?
Yes. The Physical Presence Test only requires 330 full days in foreign countries during any 12-month period—the days do not need to be in the same country. You can qualify while moving between multiple countries. The Bona Fide Residence Test requires establishing residence in one specific foreign country for an uninterrupted period that includes a full calendar year.
Do I owe self-employment tax as a digital nomad?
Yes, unless a Totalization Agreement applies. The FEIE excludes your income from income tax but does not reduce self-employment tax (Social Security and Medicare). If you are self-employed abroad, you generally still owe SE tax at 15.3% on your net self-employment income. A Totalization Agreement between the US and your country of residence may exempt you if you are paying into that country's social security system.
Which state taxes apply to digital nomads?
State tax obligations depend on your domicile and residency rules, not where you temporarily work. Some states (California, Virginia, South Carolina) aggressively tax former residents until domicile is formally terminated. Others (Texas, Florida, Nevada) have no income tax. FileAbroad reviews your state ties and recommends a domicile strategy when appropriate.
What if I haven't filed taxes since becoming a nomad?
The Streamlined Filing Compliance Procedures may be an option if your failure to file was non-willful and you meet the foreign residency requirements. Streamlined Foreign Offshore allows qualifying expats to file 3 years of tax returns and 6 years of FBARs with specified penalty treatment. FileAbroad screens these cases after a paid scope call.
Questions About Digital Nomads Taxes?
Every situation is different. The fastest way to clarity is the free intake.