CRA uses information collected on an NR73 as its principal tool in assessing individuals’ residency

Some pension plans provide that after two years of non-residence of the annuitant, the funds in a locked-in retirement account, locked-in RRSP or life income funds cease to be locked-in and can be withdrawn without limitation through a transfer to a non-locked-in retirement vehicle such as an RRSP or RRIF. When asked to confirm non-residence status in this context, CRA indicated it will not simplify its normal procedures for reviewing residency. It stated:

[T]he CRA must conduct a detailed review of all facts and circumstances specific to the individual's situation, which will generally have been brought to its attention by Form NR73. These include residency links with Canada and the duration, purpose, intent and continuity of Canadian and international travel.

Neal Armstrong. Summaries of 11 October 2019 APFF Financial Strategies and Instruments Roundtable, Q.11 under s. 2(1).