If you are a resident of Canada, you may be eligible for a tax-free monthly payment by Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Any applicant of child benefit after November 20, 2023 are required to provide proof of birth during application.
A key tip to be aware on this matter is that you will become eligible for child benefit 18 months after you arrive to Canada. In addition, you will have to have a valid permit on the 19th month and the child must be your legal dependent.
You child is only eligible for benefit payment until they are 18 years old. The amount of benefit is dependent on your annual income and according to the province you are residing in. There exist some provincial and territorial programs for specific matters such as “child disability benefit” that may affect the amount of child benefit payment. An accountant can provide more information on when and how to apply or how much your monthly support will be for that year. Likewise, the accountant will support you in calculating your income for the year while filing tax, not including the total amount of child benefit you received throughout the year as this support is exempt from income tax.
Disclaimer: Please be reminded that context above provides general information and every individual must be evaluated case by case in terms of immigration pillars in Canada. To ensure a healthy immigration status, you must consult a professional as federal and provincial governments may have different requirements or may change applications temporarily or permanent.
Reference Point: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/forms-publications/publications/t4114/canada-child-benefit.html