August 31, 2023
Working in Canada
- If you’re a full-time international student, check with the International and Exchange Student Experience team to find out the number of hours you can work.
- You must have a work permit for internships and co-op programs.
- When you start employment, you will fill out a tax deduction form (TD1) for the federal and provincial governments. This form determines the estimated personal income tax deductions from your pay.
- At the end of the year, your employer will issue you a statement of earnings known as a T4. This will show your total earnings and deductions for the year.
Filing taxes in Canada
- The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is responsible for the administration of income tax, benefits and programs.
- For tax purposes, full-time international students are considered residents from the time they enter Canada. Please note that this is not the same as immigration status.
- By filing taxes, you can be eligible for free benefits that can be used to help with expenses. Most students will not owe taxes to the government.
- In the first year of filing taxes in Canada, you will need to apply for these benefits. The RC151 form from the CRA must be submitted (or the RC66 form for those with dependants).
- You don’t need to have earned income to file taxes and receive benefits, which means that everyone should file.
- The filing deadline is April 30 for the proceeding calendar year to get your benefits on time. However, you can file your taxes at any time if you don’t owe any taxes.
- Your tuition can also be claimed as a tuition credit. That means if you stay and work in Canada, your tuition credit can be used to reduce future taxes. The tuition credit may be a good reason to stay and work in Canada for a few years to get a return on your education.
Need support with your taxes? We can help!
McMaster offers free tax clinics to all McMaster students, including international students. Keep an eye out for free clinics in March and April every year.