Am I a subject for income tax declaration?

[torontoeu]

Hi all.
I and my family became permanent residents in May 2012 (1.5+ years from today).
Upon arrival I got my SIN, opened a bank account (deposited 200 cad) and got driver's license, no residential ties, no car, no health card, no clames for child benefits etc.... We stayed in Canada for 1 week and returned to our home country.

In June 2014 we plan to move to live and work in Canada permanently.

I have two questions:
1) Do I need to declare/pay taxes for period May 2012 - June 2014? (This is the period I was permanent resident but I did not live or work in Canada)

2) During period May 2012 - June 2014 I earned extra money in my home/native country. Can I legally transfer my money (without having to pay additional taxes) to Canada since upon landing in 2012 I declared I have only 25.000 CAD (and today I have 70.000 CAD in possession)

I would appreciate if you can share any government internet link with additional info.

I thank you for your comments.

 

[zardoz]

1) No.

2) Yes.

Your PR status doesn't directly affect your tax liability. You were not a tax-resident during that period.

 

[torontoeu]

1) No.

2) Yes.

Your PR status doesn't directly affect your tax liability. You were not a tax-resident during that period.

Thanks so much Zardoz. I appreciate your comment. Is there any issue I may run to if I simply wire my 70.000 CAD while in my permanent residence confirmation have declared I have only 25.000CAD?
Also, if I carry some funds (i.e. 10.000CAD) personally with my family when I arrive in Canada will I be a subject of customs payment?

Thanks much.

 

[zardoz]

You can transfer as much as you like and as long as you declare it, there is no problem bringing cash into Canada. You will not have pay any penalties. Do not try and hide money that you are bringing through Customs. That's bad news...

 

[NetMecca]

Hi

For your own benefit I would be sure to keep tax filing records (in the home country) for the time you were not in Canada. This may prove helpful if there are any questions about this in the future.

Good luck