If you are an international student in Canada, you likely need to file a Canadian tax return — and doing so can put money back in your pocket through the tuition tax credit and GST/HST credit. Here is everything you need to know.
If you lived in Canada for more than 183 days in a calendar year, you are generally considered a Canadian resident for tax purposes and should file a tax return. This applies to most international students. Even if you had no income, filing is worthwhile because it makes you eligible for the GST/HST credit and builds your RRSP contribution room for future years.
As an international student paying tuition to a Canadian post-secondary institution, you can claim the tuition tax credit. Your school provides a T2202 form each year showing your eligible tuition fees. This credit directly reduces the amount of federal tax you owe. If the credit exceeds your tax owing, you can carry the unused amount forward to future years or transfer up to $5,000 to a parent, grandparent, or spouse who is a Canadian resident.
If you worked part-time or full-time while studying in Canada, your employer issues a T4 slip by the end of February showing your income and deductions. You must include this income in your tax return. Many students who worked throughout the year receive a refund because their employer withheld more tax than necessary.
International students who are Canadian residents for tax purposes are eligible for the GST/HST credit. Even if you had no employment income, filing your return makes you eligible for this quarterly payment. The amount depends on your income — lower income means higher credit.
The Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) offers free tax filing help for students with simple tax situations. Many universities and colleges host CVITP clinics on campus during tax season — typically from February to April. Check your school's student services office for dates and locations.
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