Confused

I'm Permanent Residence of Canada since 2002. Summer 2008 I went to work in Hong Kong on a 1 or 2 yr contract. I did work first 6 months 2008 in Canada and in College. I don't know if I should put in a tax return. If I put only the Canadian income I get a refund. Not sure what to do? I don't want to pay taxes in both country. Can someone help?

If you worked in Canada in 2008 and earned any money, you should file a 2008 income tax return. The forms are online at: http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/formspubs/t1gnrl/menu-eng.html


To be a non-resident of Canada for tax purposes, you should fill out a form to determine your residency status http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/nnrsdnts/cmmn/rsdncy-eng.html Residency is determined on a case-by-case basis - the official who reads your application will decide where "more" of your life is (eg. do you still have a home in Canada, furniture, medical insurance etc). After 3 or 4 months they will send you a letter letting you know your status.


Non-residents who earn money from pensions, rentals, etc, have to file with the International Tax Services office by June 30.


Hong Kong taxes can be deducted from Canadian taxes so you don't pay double.


All the info you need is at the Canada Revenue Agency website but you'll have to read fast as the deadline for filing personal income tax is April 30.