Living in Costa Rica, would like to split time in Canada and it's kinda complicated. Suggestions?

[nickCR]

Hello All,

I'm a Canadian Citizen (non-resident) that lives in Costa Rica. I've been down here for 24 years.

My wife (Colombian Citizen, CR resdient) and I have had several conversations about our families future. We love Costa Rica (surfing, riding in the mountains, weather, nature, etc) and would like to spend a part of the year here, but our kids are 6 and 9 (both Canadian Citizens) and it would be better for them long-term to grow up in Canada.

We don't know that we want to be in Canada forever but at least while the kids finish school.

I'd like to keep the option open if possible to remain as a non-resident.

What would be the best way to do that? Get my wife an education visa? She has a bachelor degree in Psychology but hasn't practiced in many years.

Any recommendations on an immigration specialist that also understands international taxation?

Appreciate the help everyone!

 

[canuck_in_uk]

Hello All,

I'm a Canadian Citizen (non-resident) that lives in Costa Rica. I've been down here for 24 years.

My wife (Colombian Citizen, CR resdient) and I have had several conversations about our families future. We love Costa Rica (surfing, riding in the mountains, weather, nature, etc) and would like to spend a part of the year here, but our kids are 6 and 9 (both Canadian Citizens) and it would be better for them long-term to grow up in Canada.

We don't know that we want to be in Canada forever but at least while the kids finish school.

I'd like to keep the option open if possible to remain as a non-resident.

What would be the best way to do that? Get my wife an education visa? She has a bachelor degree in Psychology but hasn't practiced in many years.

Any recommendations on an immigration specialist that also understands international taxation?

Appreciate the help everyone!

If you move to Canada for your children to go to school, you will be a resident.

If you want your wife to be able to live in Canada, you will need to sponsor her for PR.

 

[canuck78]

Even if just your children move to Canada to go to elementary or secondary school without you you would become a resident for tax purposes.

 

[nickCR]

Thank you for your replies!

It makes sense and will keep things a lot simpler in the end.