Newcomers to Canada
Start your Canadian financial life on the right foot.
Filing your first Canadian tax return is more complex than it looks — especially when you have foreign income, offshore assets, or partial-year residency to deal with. We specialize in first-year Canadian returns and help newcomers understand their rights, benefits, and obligations under the Canadian tax system.
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What We Offer
Who Is This For?
Why Choose Synergy
Residency Determination
Your Canadian tax obligations begin the day you establish residency. We determine your residency status correctly and report your entry date accurately — this affects your entire first-year return.
Foreign Income Reporting
Income earned outside Canada before (and sometimes after) your arrival date must be reported correctly. We convert foreign income using CRA-accepted exchange rates and apply treaty protections where applicable.
Access Your Benefits
Many newcomers don't realize they qualify for the Canada Child Benefit, GST/HST credit, and other programs. We apply for every benefit you're entitled to — often worth thousands of dollars.
Foreign Asset Compliance
If you have foreign assets exceeding $100,000 CAD, you must file a T1135. The penalties for non-filing are severe. We ensure you're compliant from your first year.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I become a Canadian tax resident?
You become a Canadian tax resident when you establish 'significant residential ties' in Canada — typically the date you arrive and settle. From that date, you're taxable on your worldwide income. For your first year, you file a part-year return covering only the period from your arrival date to December 31. We determine your exact residency start date and structure your return accordingly.
Do I have to report my foreign bank accounts and assets?
Yes. If you own foreign property (bank accounts, investments, real estate) with a total cost of more than $100,000 CAD at any point during the year, you must file a T1135 Foreign Income Verification Statement. The penalty for failure to file is $25/day up to $2,500, with additional penalties for gross negligence. We handle this filing as part of your return.
I earned income in my home country before moving. Do I report that?
Generally, income earned before your Canadian residency date is not taxable in Canada. However, you must still disclose certain foreign assets you owned at the time of arrival (using a 'deemed acquisition' rule). If you have ongoing income from your home country after moving (rental income, pension, investments), that must be reported. Canada has tax treaties with most countries that prevent double taxation.
How do I apply for the Canada Child Benefit?
You can apply for the CCB when you file your first tax return, or earlier through CRA My Account or by mailing Form RC66. The CCB is based on your family income and the number of children under 18. As a newcomer, your benefit may initially be estimated based on limited Canadian income data. We apply for the CCB and ensure your application reflects your full entitlement.
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