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Tax filing for newcomers to Canada
Your first return unlocks benefits. We make sure it is right, in English or French.
In short In your first year you are taxed in Canada only from the day you became a resident. Filing, even with little income, is what starts your access to benefits such as the GST/HST credit, the Canada Child Benefit and the Quebec solidarity credit.
Newcomers to Canada: tax benefits you may qualify for
- GST/HST credit: a quarterly payment for low and moderate incomes. Newcomers generally apply using Form RC151.
- Canada Child Benefit: monthly payments for children under 18, applied for separately (Form RC66).
- Quebec solidarity tax credit and family allowance from the Quebec government.
Most benefits are based on your tax return, so filing every year, even with low income, keeps them coming.
Your first return
- Report your date of entry, which sets when Canadian residency started.
- Report your world income before arrival; it is used to calculate credits, not taxed in Canada.
- Declare foreign property over $100,000 on Form T1135 in later years, when required.
- Claim moving expenses where you qualify.
What to bring
- Immigration documents showing your date of entry.
- SIN, T4/RL-1 slips and any other Canadian slips.
- Information on income earned abroad before and after arrival.
- Lease or rent details for the Quebec solidarity credit.
Price
Priced per file, quoted before we start. Request a quote.
Full guide: newcomers’ first tax return.
FAQ
Do I need to file taxes in my first year in Canada?
Generally yes if you owe tax, and it is strongly recommended even with low income because benefits such as the GST/HST credit depend on it.
Is my income from before I arrived taxed in Canada?
No. It is reported to calculate credits and benefits, but Canada taxes you only from the date you became resident.
Can you help in French or English?
Yes, in either language.