Should I file a tax return if I'm a resettled refugee?
Refugees who come to Canada through a resettlement program (Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program or Government-Assisted Refugees Program) become permanent residents when they arrive in Canada. Therefore, they have the same rights and duties as any other permanent resident of Canada.
As a permanent resident of Canada, you are responsible for paying taxes.
Once you have filed your first tax return, you may be eligible to receive more tax credits and benefits.
For more information
- What is the taxation system in Canada? - An article from Settlement.Org.
- Benefits, credits, and taxes for newcomers - Benefits and credits are payments from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), given directly to eligible families and individuals to help offset some of the living costs. From the CRA.
- Benefits and Credits for Newcomers to Canada - This video provides information to newcomers in Canada about the importance of tax filing, receiving the benefits and credits they are entitled to, and how to get tax help. From the CRA.
- How do I file my tax return? - An article from Settlement.Org that explains the different ways to file your tax return.