Key Changes and New Laws Affecting Expats and Digital Nomads in Toronto, Canada

Starting in October, a series of new policies and updates to existing laws will take effect in Canada, impacting various aspects of life, from personal finance to daily routines. As an American expat living in Toronto for two years, these changes are noteworthy for expats and digital nomads navigating the Canadian landscape.

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Interest Rate Adjustments

The CRA has announced new interest rates for the fourth quarter, effective from October 1 to December 31. These changes will affect overdue taxes, Canada Pension Plan contributions, employment insurance premiums, and non-corporate taxpayer overpayments. It's important to keep track of these rates, especially if you're dealing with tax obligations or expecting refunds.

Health Canada's Updated Safety Reporting Rules

Health Canada is implementing stricter safety reporting rules for drug and natural health product manufacturers, effective October 1. These changes will ensure that manufacturers submit annual summary reports, interim summary reports, and issue-related summary reports, aligning with international standards. This update is particularly relevant for those managing medications or those in the healthcare sector.

Cutting Red Tape for Controlled Substance Prescriptions

Starting October 1, Health Canada is making it easier for pharmacies to manage controlled substance prescriptions. Pharmacy technicians will be authorized to receive verbal prescriptions, accept shipments, transfer orders, and manage disposals. Pharmacists will have the authority to change, extend, or transfer prescriptions for up to two years from the date received. These changes will streamline the process for both pharmacies and patients, potentially reducing wait times and simplifying the prescription management process.

Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) Payments

The CGEB will begin issuing quarterly tax-free payments on October 5. This benefit is designed to help Canadians facing rising grocery bills. The amount received is based on your adjusted family net income from your 2025 tax return. Single individuals can receive up to $679, married couples up to $890, and families up to $234 per eligible child under 19.

Claims Deadline for Canadian Armed Forces Settlement

The claims period for the $150-million settlement for racial discrimination or harassment in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has opened on October 15, 2025, and will close on October 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. PST. This settlement covers CAF members who experienced racial discrimination or harassment from April 17, 1985, up to the settlement approval date. The amount received depends on the duration and severity of the experience, ranging between $5,000 and $35,000.

Old Age Security (OAS) Benefit Increase

Eligible Canadians receiving the Old Age Security (OAS) benefit will see a slight increase in their next payment, effective October. These benefits are reviewed every quarter and adjusted according to changes in the Consumer Price Index to keep up with the cost of living.