Moving to Canada can be both an exciting and intimidating experience. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make the transition smoother, from finding a place to live to learning about Canadian culture and discovering local job opportunities. Our comprehensive guide for newcomers offers resources, advice, and information to help you settle into your new home smoothly and successfully.
Understand your mobility rights and obligations.
Moving to a new country can be overwhelming, and it's important to understand the rights and obligations of immigrants when entering Canada. For example, all foreign workers must follow Canadian laws regarding employment, workers' compensation, mobility rights, privacy rights, and more. Knowing your rights and obligations as a newcomer can help you better integrate into Canadian life and ensure you are treated fairly.
Prepare financially and come job-ready.
For newcomers to Canada, preparing financially and coming job-ready is important. First, research what jobs are available to you regarding your qualifications and experience. Then, use online resources like Novices Jobs to your advantage when searching for a job. Additionally, begin saving money before coming to Canada for expenses related to moving, such as living costs, application fees, and more.
Learn about the legal system and basic rights and responsibilities.
Newcomers to Canada must become familiar with the legal system and understand their rights and responsibilities. Knowing how to manage personal finances, lease a property or handle a legal dispute are topics that need an understanding of Canadian law. It is also essential to be familiar with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which provides freedom from discrimination, preserves fundamental freedoms and outlines civil liberties like freedom of speech, expression and assembly.
Research programs for connecting international professionals to Canadian employers.
Canada is home to numerous programs that provide opportunities for immigrants to gain meaningful work experience and build employer relationships in their chosen fields. Researching and learning more about these programs can help newcomers make more informed decisions about career building in Canada. Programs like the International Experience Canada Program, Canadian Immigrant Integration Program, Career Bridge Internships and Bridging Leadership Program are just some of the many initiatives offering international professionals the chance to connect with employers in Canada.
Get help from government services and immigration centers to make settling easier.
There are many free government services and immigration centers that can assist newcomers to Canada. You may want to check out the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada website, which offers resources for permanent residents and those seeking to become citizens. Additionally, the Service Canada Centres across the country offer programs that help new immigrants obtain language training, job search assistance, funding support and other employment-related services. With all these supports, you'll find that settling into your new home will be much smoother.
For a complete guide for newcomers to Canada, you may read the following:
- Welcome to Canada
- Before Your Arrival
- After Your Arrival
- Housing
- Employment
- Healthcare Services
- Money and Finances
- Getting Connected to Your Community
- Primary and Secondary Education in Canada
- Post-Secondary Education in Canada
Additional Resources:
- Find Free Newcomer Services Near You
- Settlement Information for Newcomers
- Information for Newcomers
- Newcomer Resources
- Newcomer, Immigrant, and Refugee Resources
- YMCA Newcomer Information Centre
- Community Resources Serving Immigrant and Refugee Families
- Resources for Newcomers to Canada
- Newcomer Resources
- Resources for Newcomers
- Resources from the YMCA of the National Capital Region
- Resources for Newcomers (Alberta)
- Newcomers Resources from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
- Settlement Services and Immigration Information
- Newcomers (Ontario)
- Centre for Newcomers
- Resources (Nova Scotia)
- Resources for Newcomers