First-Time Newcomer (Immigrant) Tax Filing

Helping Newcomers to Canada File Their First Tax Return with Confidence

If you are a new immigrant, work permit holder, or international student in Canada, filing your first personal income tax return (T1 General Tax Return) is an essential step to accessing government benefits, tax credits, and refunds. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) offers various tax benefits for newcomers, but understanding how to report income, foreign assets, and deductions can be complex.

At Westview Accounting & Tax Services Inc., we provide comprehensive tax filing services for first-time filers in North Vancouver, BC. We ensure that you accurately report income, claim eligible tax credits, and meet all CRA filing requirements—giving you peace of mind in your new country.

Who Needs to File a First-Time Tax Return in Canada?

Permanent Residents & Landed Immigrants

If you received PR status within the tax year, you must file a tax return.

Temporary Foreign Workers (T4)

If you work in Canada and earn income, you are required to file taxes.

International Students (T2202)

If you are studying in Canada, you may qualify for tuition credits and tax refunds.

Refugees & Protected Persons

If you were granted asylum or refugee status, you may need to report income and claim government benefits.

Those with Foreign Income (T1135)

If you earn income from foreign employment, rental properties, or investments, you must report it.

Self-Employed or Business Owners (T2125)

Entrepreneurs and freelancers must report business income and expenses.

Newcomers with Dependents (RC66, RC269)

Newcomers with children should file to receive child benefits and tax credits.

Tip: Even without Canadian income, filing helps you access credits, benefits, and build your tax history.

Important Tax Credits & Benefits for Newcomers

GST/HST Credit (RC151)

A tax-free payment to help cover the cost of sales tax on goods and services.

Canada Child Benefit (RC66)

Monthly financial support for parents raising children under 18.

Tuition Credits (T2202)

Students can claim tuition fees and carry forward unused credits.

RRSP Contribution Room (Schedule 7)

Filing taxes allows you to start accumulating RRSP room, which helps with tax planning.

Foreign Tax Credits (T1135)

If you paid taxes on foreign income, you may be able to reduce your Canadian tax liability.

Disability Tax Credit (T2201)

Available to individuals with disabilities and their caregivers.

Home Buyers’ Tax Credit (RC143)

Newcomers purchasing their first home in Canada may qualify.

Tip: Even with no taxes owed, filing helps you access refunds and financial benefits.

Important Tax Credits & Benefits for Newcomers

GST/HST Credit (RC151)

A tax-free payment to help cover the cost of sales tax on goods and services.

Canada Child Benefit (RC66)

Monthly financial support for parents raising children under 18.

Tuition Credits (T2202)

Students can claim tuition fees and carry forward unused credits.

RRSP Contribution Room (Schedule 7)

Filing taxes allows you to start accumulating RRSP room, which helps with tax planning.

Foreign Tax Credits (T1135)

If you paid taxes on foreign income, you may be able to reduce your Canadian tax liability.

Disability Tax Credit (T2201)

Available to individuals with disabilities and their caregivers.

Home Buyers’ Tax Credit (RC143)

Newcomers purchasing their first home in Canada may qualify.

Tip: Even with no taxes owed, filing helps you access refunds and financial benefits.

How Westview Ensures a Smooth First-Time Tax Filing

Residency Status Assessment

We assess whether you are considered a Canadian tax resident, which affects how you report your income.

Foreign Income Compliance

If you have investments, rental properties, or earnings outside Canada, we ensure compliance with CRA reporting rules.

Maximizing Benefits & Credits

We identify all eligible tax credits and deductions to help you reduce taxes and maximize your refund.

Avoiding Filing Mistakes

Errors such as not reporting worldwide income, missing tax credits, or incorrect residency status can delay refunds or trigger audits.

Fast E-Filing (EFILE)

We submit your return electronically to speed up your refund and tax credit payments.

Year-Round Support

If the CRA requests additional documents or if you need to amend a return, we provide ongoing assistance.

Why Work with Westview Accounting & Tax Services Inc.?

At Westview Accounting & Tax Services Inc., we combine deep expertise with personalized service. Our team takes the time to understand your unique financial situation and offers tailored advice to ensure your return is accurate, compliant, and optimized for maximum refunds. We don’t just file your taxes—we help you plan smarter for the future. Whether you’re a newcomer, business owner, or retiree, you can trust us for clear guidance, strategic savings, and peace of mind all year long.

Experienced North Vancouver accountants

Transparent, upfront pricing

Professional review of all tax documents

Personalized advice for your financial goals

Convenient online or in-person filing options

We make tax season straightforward and stress-free, helping you avoid penalties and save time.

File Your First Tax Return in

Canada—Correctly & Stress-Free!

File Your First Tax Return in Canada—Correctly & Stress-Free!

Filing your first tax return is an important step toward building financial stability in Canada. Let Westview Accounting & Tax Services Inc. handle your newcomer tax filing, ensuring you maximize your tax credits, stay compliant, and file on time in North Vancouver, BC.

Westview Accounting provides trusted accounting, tax, and bookkeeping services across North Vancouver and Surrey. We help individuals and businesses stay compliant, informed, and financially confident.

our services

Business Registration & Setup

Business Tax Preparation & Filing

Business Tax Planning & Optimization

Bookkeeping & Payroll

CRA Compliance, Audits & Dispute Resolution

Personal Tax Preparation & Filing

Personal Tax Planning & Optimization

CRA Compliance, Audits & Dispute Resolution

  • Surrey Address

    208 – 7928 128 Street,

    Surrey, BC V3W 4E8

  • North Vancouver Address

    202 – 1451 Lonsdale Ave,

    North Vancouver, BC V7M 2H9

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