Stress-free tax filing for newcomers to Canada
Are you a new immigrant, a permanent resident, or an international student in Canada? Welcome! Bienvenue! There's a lot to navigate as a new Canadian, but luckily our experts can help you file your taxes accurately.
What do newcomers to Canada need to know about filing taxes?
Your first-year taxes
If you have a home, a spouse or common-law partner, or dependants in Canada, you’re considered a resident in Canada for tax purposes by the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA). This means you should file your taxes for the entire year or part of the tax year you’ve lived in Canada.
Income tax amount payable
The amount you have to pay on your Canadian personal income taxes depends on your total income, deductions, family situation, and the province or territory you live in. Use our personal income tax calculator to get a free tax estimate.
Tax filing deadlines
The tax filing deadline is April 30 of every year. If April 30 falls on a weekend, the CRA extends the deadline to the following business day. If you’re self-employed, the deadline is June 15. If you file late, you'll be liable for penalties and interest on the amount owing for that tax year.
First time filing taxes in Canada? Let us help—or do the work for you.
Assist & Review 
Prepare and file your income taxes, with unlimited expert help
Frequently asked questions
Your tax obligations depend on your residency status. If you stay in Canada for 183 days or more in one tax year, you're a deemed resident of Canada for tax purposes.
You are considered a factual resident of Canada for tax purposes when you’ve established significant residential ties such as:
1. establishing a home in Canada
2. a spouse or common-law partner in Canada
3. dependents in Canada
Most new Canadians can file their first return online with NETFILE. Temporary workers, international students, and anyone with a SIN that starts with 9 must file their first return through the mail.
As a new Canadian permanent resident, you will have to print and mail your first income tax return to the CRA.
A certified tax preparer can submit your tax return online on your behalf.
After the CRA has assessed your first return, you can register for CRA My Account to help keep track of your tax information in one convenient location.
Depending on your own tax situation and family structure, you may be eligible for a number of tax breaks.
Possible credits & benefits for newcomers to Canada include:
1. Canada child benefit
2. Goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax (GST/HST) credit
3. Provincial and territorial benefits and credits
