If you are waiting to receive your tax refund, one of the first big questions that comes to mind is: how long does it take to get a tax refund? The answer mainly depends on these factors: how you filed your return, whether you are a resident or non-resident, and whether the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) needs extra time to review your return.
According to the CRA, the usual processing timeline is:
- Online return: around 2 weeks
- Paper return: around 12 weeks
- Non-resident return: around 16 weeks
This usually applies when the return is filed correctly and submitted on or before the due date.
In this guide, we will explain in simple language:
- how long the refund timeline is
- why your refund may be delayed
- how to check your status online
- how you can get your refund faster
How long does a tax refund take in Canada?
For most people, the refund timeline depends mainly on the way the tax return was submitted.If you file your taxes online, the CRA usually processes the return much faster than a paper return. Online returns are generally completed within about two weeks, provided everything is complete and accurate.If you mail a paper return, the process is slower. Paper returns often take around twelve weeks because they require more manual handling.For non-residents, the timeline is usually longer. The CRA says non-resident returns can take around sixteen weeks to process.So, the general rule is easy to remember: online is fastest, paper is slower, and non-resident returns usually take the longest.
Is online filing faster than mailing a paper return?
Yes, absolutely.Online filing is the quickest option for most taxpayers in Canada. The CRA has consistently stated that electronically filed returns are processed much faster than mailed paper returns.When you file through certified tax software using NETFILE, your return goes directly into the system, which reduces delays caused by manual data entry. That is one reason many people choose online filing.In some cases, taxpayers who file electronically and are signed up for direct deposit may even receive their refund in as little as 8 business days. That does not happen for everyone, but it shows how much faster the process can be when everything goes smoothly.By comparison, paper returns can take several weeks longer, so if speed matters, online filing is usually the best choice.
How long does a non-resident tax refund take?
If you are filing as a non-resident of Canada, you should expect a longer wait.The CRA’s usual service standard for non-resident returns is about 16 weeks. These files can take more time because they may involve additional checks related to residency, foreign income, withholding tax, or tax treaty rules.Because of this, non-resident taxpayers should not panic if the refund takes longer than a standard return filed by a Canadian resident. A longer timeline is normal in these situations.
Why is my Canada tax refund delayed?
There are several common reasons a tax refund may take longer than expected.
1. You filed a paper return
This is one of the biggest reasons for delays. Paper returns move more slowly because they have to be opened, sorted, and processed manually.
2. The CRA needs to review your return
Sometimes the CRA selects a return for extra review. This can happen if certain amounts do not match the information they already have on file, or if a claim needs supporting documents.
3. Information is missing or incomplete
If something important is left out, the CRA may pause processing until the missing details are provided. Even a small error can slow things down.
4. You filed after the deadline
The CRA’s standard processing timelines usually apply to returns received on or before the filing due date. If you file late, the processing time may not follow the same schedule.
5. You are waiting for a mailed cheque
Even after the refund is approved, receiving a cheque by mail can take longer than direct deposit. So in some cases, the refund is issued on time, but the delivery method adds extra waiting time.
Does direct deposit make tax refunds faster?
Direct deposit may not always reduce the actual CRA processing time, but it usually helps you get your money faster once the refund has been approved. Instead of waiting for a cheque to be printed and mailed, the money is sent directly to your bank account.
That is why the CRA recommends direct deposit as a secure and faster way to receive refunds and benefit payments.
If your goal is to get your refund as soon as possible, direct deposit is one of the smartest choices you can make.
When should you check your refund status?
It is normal to want updates, especially if you were expecting your refund quickly. But the CRA advises people not to follow up too early.
Their general guidance is to wait:
- 12 weeks if you live in Canada
- 16 weeks if you live outside Canada
before contacting them directly about the status of your refund.
That said, you can still monitor your return through the CRA’s online services while you wait. This is often the easiest way to see whether your return is still being processed or whether any action is needed from you.
How can you check your tax refund status?
The easiest way to check your refund status is through the CRA’s My Account portal.
The CRA also offers a Progress Tracker, which can sometimes show the target completion date for your return based on its service standards.
These online tools can be useful because they help you see whether your return is still under review, whether the refund has been issued, or whether the CRA is waiting for something from you.
What is a Notice of Assessment?
A Notice of Assessment, often called an NOA, is the CRA’s official summary after they finish processing your tax return.
It explains the result of your return, including whether:
- you are getting a refund,
- you owe money, or
- your balance is zero.
For many taxpayers, the Notice of Assessment is the point where everything becomes clear. Once it is available, you can usually see the final outcome of your return and confirm the refund amount.
How to get your tax refund faster in Canada
While you cannot control every part of the process, there are a few practical steps that can help you avoid delays and improve your chances of getting your refund sooner.
File online
This is the fastest method by far. Online returns are usually processed much more quickly than paper returns.
Sign up for direct deposit
Once your refund is approved, direct deposit helps the money reach you faster than a mailed cheque.
Double-check everything before submitting
Make sure your personal details, income slips, deductions, and banking information are correct. Mistakes can lead to reviews, requests for more documents, or longer processing times.
File on time
Submitting your return by the deadline gives you the best chance of falling within the CRA’s normal processing standards.
Final thoughts
For most taxpayers in Canada, the wait for a refund is not too long if the return is filed online and all the information is correct. Online returns are typically processed in around two weeks, paper returns can take around twelve weeks, and non-resident returns may take about sixteen weeks.
If your refund is taking longer than expected, it does not always mean something is wrong. Sometimes the CRA simply needs more time to review the file or verify information.
The best way to avoid delays is to file online, use direct deposit, and make sure your return is complete before sending it in.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a tax refund in Canada after filing online?
In most cases, the CRA processes online returns in about two weeks if the return is complete and submitted on time.
How long does a paper tax refund take in Canada?
Paper returns usually take around twelve weeks to process.
How long does a non-resident tax refund take in Canada?
Non-resident returns generally take about sixteen weeks.
Can a tax refund arrive in less than two weeks?
Yes, sometimes. Some electronically filed returns with direct deposit may be completed in as little as eight business days.
When should I contact the CRA about my refund?
The CRA generally advises waiting twelve weeks if you live in Canada and sixteen weeks if you live outside Canada before contacting them.
Does direct deposit make refunds faster?
Yes. It usually helps you receive the money more quickly after the CRA issues the refund.