I am an Ontario resident temporarily living abroad — can I get the first-time buyer LTT rebate when I return and buy?
Citizenship or permanent resident status and prior home ownership are what drive Ontario first-time buyer LTT rebate eligibility — not where you currently live. If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who has never owned a home anywhere in the world, you may be eligible for the rebate when you purchase a home in Ontario even if you have been living abroad.
The key requirements are that you must be 18 or older, be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, have never previously owned a home anywhere in the world, and intend to occupy the Ontario home as your principal residence. If you are returning to Ontario and purchasing with the intent to live there, the principal residence requirement can be satisfied.
One consideration is the "home anywhere in the world" rule — if during your time abroad you acquired any residential property, that would disqualify you. Also confirm your citizenship or permanent resident status is still valid and current. If you have any uncertainty, speak with a real estate lawyer before your closing.
Key takeaways
- Rebate eligibility turns on citizenship/permanent residency and never having owned a home globally.
- Temporarily living abroad does not disqualify you if you return and intend to occupy the property.
- Any home ownership abroad — even temporary — would disqualify you.
- Confirm your immigration status is current if you have been living outside Canada.