How to File Taxes for the First Time as a Newcomer? Do I Need to File in the Year I Land?

How to File Taxes for the First Time as a Newcomer? Do I Need to File in the Year I Land?

Direct answer: If you become a Canadian resident for tax purposes in 2025, you are not required to file a 2025 tax return until April 30, 2026. However, you can apply for benefits like the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) as soon as you arrive.

Who is a newcomer?

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) considers you a newcomer for the first year you are a resident for tax purposes. You become a resident when you establish significant residential ties, such as a home, spouse, or dependants in Canada. Secondary ties include bank accounts, driver's license, health insurance, etc.

Filing timeline

• Tax year is calendar year (Jan 1 – Dec 31).
• Filing deadline is usually April 30 of the following year.
• Example: If you arrived in 2025, file by April 30, 2026.
• But newcomers are not required to file in their first year, unless they want to claim benefits or refunds.

What to prepare

• Social Insurance Number (SIN) or Temporary Tax Number (TTN)
• Tax slips (e.g., T4) from employers or payers
• Supporting documents (keep for at least 6 years)

If you can't get a SIN, apply for a TTN from CRA by completing a benefit application or tax return, attaching a letter explaining why, and providing certified identity documents.

How to apply for benefits

Even without filing, you can apply for CGEB:

• If no children: use the online form RC151.
• If you have children under 19: print and mail the RC151 form.

Only one application per household is needed.

Common pitfalls

• Not filing may miss benefits: Some benefits like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) require filing. Temporary residents become eligible for CCB after 19 months in Canada, provided they hold a valid permit.
• Unreported income: All income must be reported, even without a T4, including cash tips, self-employment, rental income, etc. Not reporting is part of the underground economy and may lead to CRA review.
• Residency changes: If you leave or return mid-year, your residency status may change. Notify CRA to avoid benefit disruptions.
• Protect your SIN: It's sensitive; loss or theft can lead to identity theft.

Official sources

• Newcomers to Canada and the CRA - Canada.ca