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For informational purposes only. Not financial, legal, or professional advice. Consult a licensed mortgage professional before making decisions. See full disclaimer

FAQ Library
Regulatory•Verified 2026-04-14

What is the Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST) impact?

The Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST) is a 25% tax applied to the purchase of residential property in Ontario by individuals who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It is charged upfront at closing and certain exemptions may apply.

Need a Deeper Breakdown?

Read the full research guide this FAQ was derived from for more context and strategy.

Technical Research Verification

Our systems synchronized 2 data points and regulatory frameworks to verify this technical brief.

Read the deeper guide · Regulatory

Non-Resident & Expat Mortgages in Canada: 2026 Complete Guide (Down Payments, Foreign Buyer Ban, NRST & Tax Rules)

Related Questions

How does the new OSFI guidance affect mortgage switching for you?

The latest OSFI guidance simplifies switching lenders at renewal for borrowers with existing uninsured mortgages.

What documentation is typically required for a mortgage application, and how might this differ for a 'straight switch'?

While specific requirements can vary slightly among lenders, the standard documentation confirms income, credit history, and property details.

What are the Loan-to-Income (LTI) limits, and how do they impact lenders?

OSFI is introducing Loan-to-Income (LTI) limits on the uninsured mortgage portfolios of federally regulated financial institutions (FRFIs).

How does 'stress testing' affect the stability of financial institutions?

Stress testing evaluates how a financial institution's mortgage portfolio would fare under tough economic times.

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RegionTax NameRateApplicability
OntarioNon-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST)25%Province-wide, applied upfront at closing. Exemptions may apply for certain international students, foreign workers, and refugees.
BCSpeculation Tax0.5% to 2%Specific regions (Greater Vancouver, Victoria, and others); rate depends on residency status and property type.

The NRST is intended to deter non-resident investors from purchasing residential real estate in Ontario. Exemptions and rebates are available for certain buyers, such as international students, foreign workers, and refugees who meet specific criteria. The BC Speculation Tax is separate and applies at a lower rate, depending on the owner's residency and property use.