Newcomers to Canada file their first tax return for the year they became a resident, using their date of entry. You report world income from that date, and state income from before it so the CRA can calculate your credits. Filing is how you get benefits such as the GST/HST credit and the Canada Child Benefit, even if you had little or no income.
What's included
- Your first Canadian tax return with your date of entry
- Reporting world income before and after arrival correctly
- Applying for benefits such as the GST/HST credit and Canada Child Benefit
- Foreign property reporting (T1135) where it applies
- Explaining Canadian tax basics in your language
- Help with returns for international students
Who it's for
- New permanent residents
- Work permit holders
- International students
- Families with children
- Newcomers starting a business
Newcomers to Canada: frequently asked questions
What documents do I need for my first Canadian tax return?
Bring your Social Insurance Number (SIN), your date of entry to Canada and immigration documents, any Canadian slips such as T4s, information about income earned outside Canada during the year, rent receipts, tuition slips if you studied, and details of any foreign bank accounts or property.
Do I need to file if I had no income?
Yes, it's worth it. Filing a return is how the CRA decides your eligibility for benefits like the GST/HST credit and the Canada Child Benefit, and BC credits such as the renter's tax credit.
Do I report income from my home country?
You report your world income from the date you became a resident of Canada. Income from before that date isn't taxed in Canada, but you state it on your return so the CRA can calculate your credits and benefits.
What if I own property or bank accounts outside Canada?
If the total cost of your foreign property was more than $100,000 at any time in the year, you may need to file Form T1135. Your first year as a resident has special rules, so ask us before you file.
Why TaxCorner
TaxCorner is led by Atique Raza, a Chartered Professional Accountant, and has served Vancouver for 15+ years from 6483 Fraser St in South Vancouver. We review every file before it's filed, explain everything in plain language, and speak English, Urdu, Punjabi and Hindi.