Everything your Certificate of Indian Status unlocks — tax exemptions, government ID, provincial benefits, and more
The Certificate of Indian Status (commonly called the "Status Card" or "Indian Status Card") is issued by Indigenous Services Canada to individuals registered under the Indian Act. It is both proof of registration and the key to accessing a range of benefits and exemptions. This guide covers everything your Status Card unlocks in 2025.
A Status Card is the official document issued to individuals registered under the Indian Register, maintained by Indigenous Services Canada. It is a secure, photo-bearing card that confirms your registration status. The card is formally called the Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) and includes anti-counterfeiting features.
To obtain or renew a Status Card, you apply through Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). Applications can be made online, by mail, or in person at an ISC office or through your band council. Children may be registered at birth.
Income earned on-reserve may be exempt under Section 87 of the Indian Act. Applies based on connecting factors test.
Goods and services purchased on-reserve or delivered to a reserve are generally exempt from GST/HST.
Many provinces exempt Status Indians from PST on qualifying on-reserve purchases.
On-reserve property held by Status Indians may be exempt from provincial and municipal property taxes.
Status Card is accepted as valid government-issued photo ID at all major Canadian banks for account opening.
Several provinces offer fuel tax exemptions for Status Indians purchasing fuel on-reserve.
To use your Status Card for GST/HST exemption, you must present it to the vendor at the time of purchase. The exemption applies when:
The vendor records the transaction as tax-exempt. You cannot retroactively claim the exemption if you forgot to present your card at purchase. Keep your card accessible when shopping on-reserve.
| Province | Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| BC | PST exemption on-reserve | Goods purchased on or delivered to reserve |
| BC | PTT exemption | Property Transfer Tax on reserve land purchases |
| Ontario | Retail HST point-of-sale relief | On qualifying on-reserve purchases |
| Ontario | LTT exemption | Land Transfer Tax on reserve property |
| Alberta | No PST province-wide | ATB Financial Indigenous programs available |
| Manitoba | RST exemption on-reserve | Status Indians purchasing goods on-reserve |
| Saskatchewan | PST exemption on-reserve | Qualifying purchases by Status Indians |
Status Indians (and registered Inuit) are eligible for the Non-Insured Health Benefits program through Indigenous Services Canada. NIHB covers health benefits not insured by provincial health plans, including:
NIHB is linked to your status registration, not your Status Card specifically, but your card number is often used for identification when accessing benefits.
The Secure Certificate of Indian Status is accepted as:
Many Indigenous Canadians use their Status Card as their primary government ID. It should be kept safe and renewed promptly when it expires (typically every 5 years for adults).
It is important to understand the limits of Status Card benefits:
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Open KOHO Free — Code 45ET55JSYAChildren may be registered under the Indian Act and receive a Status Card. Registration is not automatic — parents must apply through ISC. Registering your child early ensures they have access to benefits including NIHB from birth. The rules for who qualifies for status (particularly regarding second-generation cut-off rules) are complex; consult ISC or a legal aid clinic if you have questions about your child's eligibility.
Your Status Card is one of the most important documents you hold as a registered First Nations person. Understand what it provides, keep it current, and use it to access the tax exemptions and benefits you are legally entitled to.