Quebec Student Tax: Declaration, Tax Status and Refund
Are you an international student in Quebec and did you work during your studies?
Even for just a few months, you may have to file an income tax return.
Many international students believe that a short stay or a low salary means there's nothing to do. In reality, filing a tax return is often advantageous and sometimes necessary.
Here's how it works.
Does a foreign student need to file a declaration in Canada?
Yes, if you have earned income in Canada.
Whether you hold a study permit with work authorization or have held seasonal employment, you will generally receive:
- A T4 slip (federal)
- A statement 1 (Quebec)
Even if your income is low, filing a tax return can:
- To recover tax withholdings
- To access certain credits
- To avoid future complications with your tax file
Tax residency status: why is it important?
The actual amount of tax depends on your tax status.
A foreign student may be considered:
- Tax resident of Canada
- Non-resident
- Reputable resident
The determination depends on several factors: length of stay, residential ties, intention to stay, etc.
👉 This point is technical and deserves a case-by-case analysis.
What if I've only worked for a few months?
Even if you worked from March to September, for example, you must declare the income earned in Canada.
Good news:
With a modest income, it is common for no real tax to be owed.
But the deductions from payroll can be recovered.
Have I already returned to my country?
You can file your tax return remotely.
It is even recommended to do so in order to:
- Regularize your file
- Avoid future reviews
- Obtain a refund if applicable
Summary
A foreign student working in Quebec:
✔️ Must usually produce a declaration
✔️ Can recover deductions
✔️ Not automatically heavily taxed
For an overview, consult our complete guide on student tax in Quebec .