Maple News reports that the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will host a free webinar on November 27, 2024, aimed at helping international students understand their tax obligations and uncover potential benefits they may be eligible for while studying in Canada.
The 45-minute virtual session is scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) and will offer clear guidance on how international students can file taxes, determine their residency status for tax purposes, and access valuable government credits. Attendees will also have the opportunity to interact with CRA officials and ask questions directly during the session.
Filing taxes is a critical step for international students, not only for legal compliance but also because many are entitled to financial credits and benefits totaling hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Moreover, tax filing is often a key requirement in transitioning to Canadian permanent residence (PR).
Topics covered will include an overview of the Canadian tax system, common tax forms, and how to recognize and avoid tax scams. The CRA will also present information on the tools and resources available to students online and in person.
International students attending the webinar can expect answers to frequently asked questions such as: Do I need to file taxes if I have no income? How can I verify if I’m considered a resident for tax purposes? Am I eligible to work while studying? And do I need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to file?
According to the CRA, students who meet the criteria for tax residency in Canada may qualify for programs such as the GST/HST credit, the disability tax credit, the child disability benefit, the Canada Carbon Rebate, and the tuition tax credit. Families with children may also be eligible for the Canada Child Benefit.
To help newcomers navigate eligibility, the CRA provides a benefits finder tool that helps identify which tax credits and programs individuals may qualify for based on their circumstances.
A follow-up webinar targeting a broader newcomer audience will be held on March 12, 2025, expanding on the benefits and credits available to recent arrivals in Canada.
International students can register for the November 27 event on the official Canada.ca website.
Maple News encourages all international students in Canada to take advantage of this opportunity to better understand the financial resources and support available through the Canadian tax system.