Consider...
Hawaii
“Hawaii is not a state of mind but a state of grace.”
Paul Theroux
Hawaii
A unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, make this one of the most attractive destinations on the planet. This U.S. state comprises a chain of islands, each with its own distinct character, from the bustling urban center of Honolulu on Oahu to the lush, untamed landscapes of Kauai.
Hawaii provides a familiar legal and business environment for many in North America, with the added benefit of a laid back island lifestyle. The state boasts reliable high speed internet, particularly in urban areas and a growing number of coworking spaces, especially in Honolulu and Maui. This infrastructure supports a burgeoning community of remote workers seeking to balance productivity with island living.
The cost of living is higher than many mainland U.S. locations, with monthly expenses for a modest lifestyle starting around $4,000-$5,000, the trade off is access to a breathtaking location and all it’s modern amenities without having to learn another language.
Hawaii offers diverse experiences for those looking to combine remote work with a truly enviable, tropical lifestyle.
| 🌎 CONTINENT | NORTH AMERICA |
|---|---|
| 📌COUNTRY | HAWAII |
| 👫🏻POPULATION | 1,435,000 |
| 🙏RELIGION | MIXED |
| 💵CURRENCY | US DOLLAR (USD) |
| 💉C19 VAX REQUIRED | NO |
| 🔌POWER | 120V - 60Hz |
| 💰GDP PER CAPITA | $78,400 PER YEAR |
| ✈️AIRPORT | HONOLULU - HNL |
|---|---|
| 🪪UK VISA FREE | 90 DAYS UNDER VWP |
| 🏝️LAND OWNERSHIP | ALLOWED |
| 🛜AVG INTERNET SPEED | 115 MBPS |
| 💧TAP WATER | SAFE TO DRINK |
| 🏧ATM LIMIT | VARIES BY BANK |
| 💳CASHLESS | WIDELY ACCEPTED |
| 💸TIPPING | 15 - 20 PERCENT |
TAX FRIENDLINESS
Digital Nomad Tax Friendliness: 60/100
-
- Hawaii doesn’t have a specific digital nomad visa program.
- Remote workers are subject to Hawaii’s high income tax rates if they establish residency.
- Non residents working remotely while visiting Hawaii may be subject to state income tax on income earned while in the state.
Expat Tax Friendliness: 55/100
-
- Hawaii has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 1.4% to 11%.
- The top rate of 11% applies to taxable income over $200,000 for single filers.
- Hawaii taxes worldwide income of its residents.
Investor Tax Friendliness: 65/100
-
- Corporate income tax rates range from 4.4% to 6.4%.
- Capital gains are taxed at 7.25% for both short-term and long-term gains.
- There are some tax credits available for certain types of investments.
Crypto Tax Friendliness: 70/100
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- Hawaii follows federal guidelines for cryptocurrency taxation.
- Crypto is treated as property for tax purposes.
- Capital gains from crypto transactions are subject to the state’s 7.25% capital gains tax.
PRICE REFERENCE
HOLIDAY LETS
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Hawaii Tourist Visa
- Visa-Free Entry (ESTA): Since Hawaii is part of the United States, visitors from countries under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), including the UK, EU countries, Australia, and Japan, can visit visa-free for up to 90 days using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
- B1/B2 Visa: For visitors not eligible for ESTA, a B1/B2 tourist visa must be obtained from a U.S. embassy before traveling.
- Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the U.S.
Important Links:
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) – for visa and entry requirements.
Hawaii Digital Nomad Visa
- No Specific Digital Nomad Visa: The U.S., including Hawaii, does not currently have a specific digital nomad visa. However, remote workers can live and work in Hawaii under the standard ESTA or B1/B2 visa for up to 90 days.
- Taxation: Digital nomads working in Hawaii may be subject to U.S. taxes, depending on their length of stay and income.
Important Links:
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) – for visa options and working remotely.
Hawaii Retirement Visa
- No Retirement-Specific Visa: The U.S. does not have a retirement-specific visa for foreigners. Retirees typically enter the U.S. on a B2 tourist visa and can stay up to 6 months at a time, although a long-term stay would require residency or citizenship.
- Residency: Retirees looking for long-term residency in Hawaii usually apply for permanent residency through family sponsorship, investment, or other residency options.
Important Links:
- USCIS – for details on long-term residency options.
OTHER NOTES
ARE ID CARDS REQUIRED
Are ID Cards Required in Hawaii for Everyday Interactions and Transactions?
- ID for Citizens and Residents: U.S. citizens and residents generally carry a state-issued driver’s license or an official Hawaii state ID card for identification.
- For Foreign Visitors: Foreign visitors should carry their passport or a photocopy of it for identification purposes. For activities such as purchasing alcohol, checking into hotels, or driving, a passport or a foreign driver’s license may be required.
Important Links:
- Hawaii DMV – for Hawaii driver’s licenses and ID card requirements.
ARE GM FOODS ALLOWED
Are GM Foods Allowed in Hawaii?
- GM Food Production: Hawaii has been a hub for research on genetically modified (GM) crops, particularly for seed companies. While there has been significant controversy surrounding GM crop trials, GM foods are not banned.
- Public Opinion: Opposition to GM crops has been strong in Hawaii, leading to local regulations in some counties, but GM products are still legally available in the state. Labeling of GM products is not mandatory.
- Organic Movement: There’s a growing organic farming movement in Hawaii, driven by concerns about the environmental impact of GM crops.
Important Links:
- Hawaii Department of Agriculture – for regulations on agriculture and GM crops.
TRESPASSING - RIGHT TO ROAM
Trespassing, Right to Roam, and Wild Camping in Hawaii
- Trespassing: Hawaii has strict trespassing laws, and entering private property without permission is illegal. Landowners can take legal action against trespassers, and some areas are clearly marked with “no trespassing” signs.
- Right to Roam: There is no “right to roam” law in Hawaii. Public lands, such as national parks and beaches, are open to the public, but private lands are restricted.
- Wild Camping: Wild camping is not permitted in most areas of Hawaii, especially on private lands. Designated camping sites are available in state and national parks, but camping permits are often required.
Important Links:
- Hawaii State Parks – for information on camping permits and regulations.
420 FRIENDLY?
420 Friendly?
- Cannabis Laws: While cannabis is illegal for recreational use under U.S. federal law, Hawaii has legalized the medical use of cannabis. Registered patients with a prescription can purchase and use medical marijuana.
- Recreational Use: Recreational cannabis use remains illegal. Possession of small amounts (under 3 grams) has been decriminalized in Hawaii and is punishable by a fine instead of jail time.
- Tourists: Tourists are not permitted to purchase or use cannabis, even for medical purposes. If caught using or possessing cannabis, they may face fines or other penalties.
Important Links:
- Hawaii Department of Health – for medical cannabis program details.