Since 2002, the federal government has a new regulation about the GST credit to individuals. For the new comers entering Canada before December 31, 2001, they cannot get the GST credit until July next year. But since January 1, 2002, new comers such as new immigrants and international student may claim their GST credit in the same year when they arrive at Canada. For example, if you arrived in Canada between January 1, and June 30, 2002, you may get the same amount of GST credit as those had lived in Canada for a long time. If you arrived in Canada between July 1 and September 30, 2002, you are deserved to get 3/4 of the GST credit.

GST credit is compensation from the federal government to somebody who has low income. Before December 31, 2001, the only way to get GST credit is to file personal income tax of last year. The change is really good news to new immigrants and international students. Anybody can get over $200 per year if the conditions are met.