Hello, I have been a Canadian Permanent Resident for 9 years, living in the GTA. I have recently made a decision to temporarily move back to the Philippines (my country of citizenship) with my kids due to family reasons back home. Due to this, I am not sure if and/or when I will return to Canada. It all depends on my family matters. That being said, I do not want to file to give up my Permanent Residence yet because everything is so uncertain. So for now, I plan on legally changing my address with the CRA to my family home In the Philippines where I will stay. I also want to make sure I do not receive any social benefits (like the CCB) while living in the Philippines. I’ve read a number of articles on everything I need to do, and am very confused. I just want to be sure I am 100% covered and doing everything legally. Can someone help me with the steps. Thank you
Canadian PR temporarily leaving Canada - need help
- Thread starter Maplepinay100
- Start date
Contact CRA and tell them to stop the CCB payments once you are ready to leave. If you change your address to the Philippines, then you'll be a non-resident and won't have to file taxes.
I assume you're aware that you have to live in Canada for 2 out of every 5 rolling years to keep your PR status. That's pretty important.
Thank you so much for your quick reply. Yes, I am aware of the residency requirement. If I am away for over 3 years, I am assuming then it will be my responsibility to file to have my PR status rescinded, correct? Or do I do nothing and it just drops on its own?
Also, I am assuming I can make the international address change online yes? Or is it better for me to call CRA?
I plan on leaving mid December, but may leave after the first of the year depending on airfare. If I were to leave in December, How would I do this with taxes for 2018? Would I still file? I did not make any taxable income this year in Canada.
Lastly, is there any proof of residence/citizenship in the Philippines I have to give to CRA? It’s the country where I am a citizen and came to Canada from originally so I just wanted to be sure.
Thank you again for your assistance. You’re a good person to help people like me on a free post like this. Thank you!
