Is Messi American by Birth or Citizenship
Lionel Messi was born in Rosario, Argentina, on June 24, 1987, and he holds Argentine nationality by birth Forbes. He has never held U.S. citizenship or a U.S. passport, and he does not meet the standard definition of an American citizen USCIS.
Messi became a Spanish citizen in 2005 while playing for FC Barcelona, and he has maintained that status alongside his Argentine nationality Forbes. He does not currently hold citizenship in the United States or any other country beyond Argentina and Spain.
Messi's U.S. Residency and Work Authorization
Does Messi Live in the United States
Messi moved to Miami, Florida, in 2023 to play for Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer Forbes. He resides in the U.S. under a valid work visa and does not hold a green card or permanent residency.
Visa and Immigration Status
His U.S. immigration status is tied to his employment contract with Inter Miami CF, and he is authorized to work in the country through a temporary visa USCIS. He does not have U.S. tax residency based on the standard permanent resident or substantial presence tests.
Messi's Tax Residency and Global Obligations
Where Does Messi Pay Taxes
Messi's primary tax residency has historically been in Spain and later in Argentina, and he has faced tax proceedings in both countries Forbes. He is not classified as a U.S. tax resident for federal income tax purposes under current IRS rules.
U.S. Tax Filing and Compliance
As a non-resident alien for U.S. tax purposes, Messi files U.S. tax returns only on U.S.-source income such as wages from Inter Miami CF IRS. His global earnings from endorsements and non-U.S. contracts are generally not subject to U.S. federal income tax.