Do I need to file taxes as an international student in Canada? (finances -taxes)

Generally speaking, if you have no income to report or were not asked by the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) to file a tax return, you are not required to complete tax forms, but you may be still eligible for certain payments or credits. By filing a tax return, you may be eligible to receive a tax refund or future tax credits for:

• GST/HST credit (goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax)
• Tuition payment tax credit carry-forward for future use
• Canada Child Tax Benefit payments
• Provincial or territorial tax credits

Taxes are beyond the scope of International Student Advisors. If you have questions about how to file a tax return, please contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) directly. During the tax season (February - April), our office will also organize information sessions by colloboarting with the CRA, so watch out for those sessions. You may also seek assistance from free income tax clinics.