How to Get a NRST Refund in Ontario

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If you’re a recent homebuyer in Ontario and paid the Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST), you may be eligible for an NRST refund – potentially saving you thousands on your purchase. Here’s what you need to know to claim your NRST refund, who qualifies, and how to apply.

What Is the NRST?

The Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST) is a 25% tax applied to the purchase of residential property in certain regions of Ontario (such as the Greater Golden Horseshoe) by foreign nationals, foreign corporations, or taxable trustees. It’s designed to cool real estate speculation and applies on top of the standard Land Transfer Tax.

But here’s the good news: you may be eligible for a refund—if you meet specific criteria and apply within the 4-year deadline from the date of purchase.

Who Can Apply for an NRST Refund?

Not everyone who pays the NRST is stuck with it – Ontario offers specific pathways for a refund if you meet certain criteria. Here are the three main categories of eligible applicants:

1. Permanent Resident or Canadian Citizen Within 4 Years

If you paid NRST and became a permanent resident or Canadian citizen within four years of your purchase, you can apply for an NRST refund.

Key Requirements:

You must have paid the NRST at the time of purchase.

You must occupy the property as your principal residence.

You must apply within 90 days of becoming a permanent resident or citizen, and within 4 years of the purchase date.

2. International Student

If you were a full-time international student enrolled in an approved Ontario institution at the time of purchase and for a continuous 2-year period afterward, you may qualify for an NRST refund – but only if your agreement was signed on or before March 29, 2022.

Key Requirements:

You must apply within 4 years of the purchase.

You must have continuously occupied the property as your principal residence.

You must not have sold the property during this period.

3. Foreign National Working Full-Time in Ontario

Foreign nationals who held a valid work permit and worked full-time (30+ hours/week) for a continuous 1-year period after the purchase, may be eligible for an NRST refund, again only for agreements signed before March 29, 2022.

Key Requirements:

Work permit must be valid at the time of purchase.

Employment must be in Ontario with T4s or employment letters for proof.

Must apply within 4 years.

What You Need to Apply for an NRST Refund

To successfully apply for an NRST refund, you’ll need to submit:

Ontario NRST Refund Application (Form LTT-NRST-REF)
Proof of eligibility (e.g., PR card, work permit, study permit, employment verification, school enrollment, etc.)
Proof of occupancy (e.g., utility bills, driver’s license, property tax bill)
Proof of NRST payment (statement from the original transaction)
Supporting ID and legal documents (passport, SIN, etc.)

Note: The property must be occupied as your principal residence within 60 days of closing, and only specific types of documentation are accepted as proof of occupancy

NRST Refund Deadlines

The NRST refund must be claimed within 4 years of the purchase date, or it’s forfeited.

Pro Tip: If you become a PR or citizen during those 4 years, you must apply within 90 days of your status change—don’t miss this dual deadline!

How to Apply for Your NRST Refund

You can apply through the Ontario Ministry of Finance online portal, by mail or with the help of a real estate lawyer. If you worked with a real estate lawyer or agent during your purchase, they can usually assist or re-open your file to support the refund process, and ensure you submit all required documentation

Final Thoughts

The NRST can add a significant cost to your home purchase. If you’re a qualifying student, worker, or new resident, don’t leave your money on the table. The NRST refund process is straightforward if you meet the criteria and have the right documents.

NRST refund eligibility and requirements can be complex, especially with recent changes to Ontario’s rules. If you’re unsure about your situation or need personalized advice, reach out to your lawyer or contact us for expert guidance.