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What is the dividend withholding rate between Canada and South Korea?

Under the Canada-South Korea tax treaty, the withholding rate on dividends is 15% for portfolio investors (general rate). A reduced rate of 5% applies when the beneficial owner is a company holding a qualifying ownership stake (typically 10% or more of voting stock). Note that the reduced rate requires the recipient to file the appropriate treaty benefit claim form before payment. This 15% rate compares to a median of 15% across Canada's 51 active treaty partners, and 15% across South Korea's 48 active partners.

Network Comparison

Canada

Rank 28 of 51 active treaties (lowest rate = #1)

Lower rates with: Israel (15%), Italy (15%), Japan (15%)

Higher rates with: Luxembourg (15%), Mexico (15%), Malaysia (15%)

South Korea

Rank 19 of 48 active treaties (lowest rate = #1)

Lower rates with: Austria (15%), Australia (15%), Belgium (15%)

Higher rates with: Switzerland (15%), Germany (15%), Denmark (15%)

Sources

Data last reviewed: 2026-04-07

Important: Treaty rates require proper claim forms (e.g., IRS Form W-8BEN for U.S. treaties, HMRC DT-Individual for U.K. treaties, CRA Form NR301 for Canadian treaties) filed before payment. Limitation on Benefits (LOB) provisions may restrict eligibility. A 0% withholding rate does not mean no tax — the residence country may still tax the income. This is not tax advice.

Related Questions: Canada - South Korea