A domicile once established continues until the individual moves to a new location with the bona fide intention of making his fixed and permanent home there.
A person can have only one domicile. If he has two or more places of abode, his domicile is the one which he regards and uses as his permanent home.
The determination of bona fide intention to change one's domicile is a factual matter which must be resolved on an individual case basis. In making this determination consideration is given to a number of factors, including, but not limited to the following: sites of real and tangible property, location of savings and checking accounts, motor vehicle registration and licensing, motor vehicle operator's license, voter registration, membership in clubs and civic groups, place of business, profession or employment, charitable contributions, location of schools attended by children, length of time of residence, place of birth and marriage, residence of family, reason for abandoning or acquiring domicile, and, in the case of a minor or married person, domicile of parents, husband, or wife and/or children. No single factor is dispositive in determining domicile; rather the factors are examined collectively to determine if the intent to acquire or abandon Virginia domicile exists. A simple declaration of intent to abandon domicile, or physical presence elsewhere is insufficient to abrogate Virginia domicile.
Additionally, the fact that an individual may have sold or disposed of his former home is not conclusive. Further, the fact that a person who has changed his place of abode to a location outside of Virginia but within six months of doing so again resides in Virginia constitutes prima facie evidence that no intent to abandon Virginia domicile existed. Where a question arises regarding an individual's domicile, the department may request such person to complete a questionnaire providing factual information relevant to the determination of intent to abandon Virginia domicile. Thus a change in domicile requires two concurrent actions--residence in a new locale and the intention to remain there indefinitely. The burden of proof that an individual has abandoned or failed to establish domicile in Virginia rests with the individual. For military personnel, see 23VAC10-110-130.
23 Va. Admin. Code § 10-110-30
Statutory Authority
§§ 58.1-203 and 58.1-302 of the Code of Virginia.