Administered by Government of Canada · Last verified: July 2026
Federal 15% credit for flow-through share investors in mineral exploration. Used by mining companies to raise exploration capital. Recently extended through 2027.
You claim this on your tax return, so the money comes back as a lower tax bill or a refund after you file. If you missed it in a past year, you can often still recover it by adjusting a prior return.
Take the 3-minute quiz to find out, and see every other Canadian program you qualify for at the same time.
Check my eligibilityMineral Exploration Tax Credit (METC) is generally open to incorporated businesses, in any province or territory, in Other. Confirm the full criteria on the official program page before applying.
The estimated value is 15% of qualifying exploration expenses (to investor). The actual amount depends on your eligible costs, the program's budget, and approval.
Claimed on a return, so a missed year can usually be recovered by amending. How far back depends on whether you file personally or as a corporation; confirm the eligible years with your accountant.
1. Structure exploration program to qualify 2. Issue flow-through shares to investors 3. Renounce expenses via T100/T101 4. Investors claim credit on their tax return
METC extended to March 31, 2027 (two-year extension announced March 3, 2025). Tied to flow-through share issuance under the look-back rule.
5% to 15% back on all business expenses
TAX CREDITUp to $2,000 per apprentice per year
TAX CREDIT35% refundable for CCPCs, 15% for other businesses, on eligible R&D costs