Can newcomers get the Canada Child Benefit?
Yes. Permanent residents, protected persons and citizens can apply soon after arriving, using Form RC66 (with Schedule RC66SCH for newcomers). Temporary residents, such as work or study permit holders, qualify once they have lived in Canada for the previous 18 months and hold a valid permit in the 19th month. For July 2026 to June 2027 the maximum is $8,157 a year per child under 6 and $6,883 per child aged 6 to 17.
Who qualifies
You must live with a child under 18, be mainly responsible for their care, and be a resident of Canada for tax purposes. You, or your spouse or common-law partner, must be a citizen, permanent resident, protected person, a temporary resident who meets the 18-month rule, or registered under the Indian Act. People holding only a Refugee Protection Claimant Document are not eligible.
How much
For July 2026 to June 2027 the full amounts are $8,157 a year ($679.75 a month) for each child under 6 and $6,883 a year ($573.58 a month) for each child aged 6 to 17. Payments shrink when adjusted family net income is above $38,237. For newcomers, the CRA uses the income you report from inside and outside Canada to set your first payments.
How to apply
Newcomers usually apply with Form RC66 and Schedule RC66SCH, which asks about your status in Canada and your income before you arrived. Each year after that, both parents or partners must file tax returns, or payments stop.
I am on a work permit. When can I start getting CCB?
From the 19th month after you started living in Canada, as long as you still hold a valid permit then. Apply when you meet the rule; payments are not paid back for the first 18 months.
Is the Canada Child Benefit taxable?
No. CCB payments are tax-free and you do not report them as income.
Official sources
Your first Canadian tax return · Newcomer banking programs · All newcomer & student guides