Welcome to Canada! 

This guide is designed to help newcomers and refugees transition smoothly into their new life in Canada. From preparing to move, arriving and to settling into a community, we’ve gathered all the essential information you may need below.

1. Preparing to Move to Canada

To enter Canada, specific documents are required. Without these, entry will not be permitted.
Additionally, consider having other important documents translated into English or French before arrival to ensure they are easily understood in Canada..

Key Documents:

• Passport(s)
• Visa or Immigration Confirmation (e.g., COPR – Confirmation of Permanent Residence)
• Birth certificates, marriage certificates
• Education transcripts and certificates
• Medical records and immunization history
• Financial records (bank statements, proof of funds, etc.)

Immigration Pathways:

• Explore programs like Express Entry, Family Sponsorship, and Refugee and Asylum Programs.

Researching Provinces and Cities:

Use resources like Settlement.Org to learn about different regions in Canada and what they offer.

For further details, contact the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
Source: Canada Border Entry Guide

2. Arriving in Canada

At the Airport:

• Follow signs for “Newcomers” at major airports. Officers will review your documents and provide a PR Card application if applicable.
• Use ArriveCAN for entry information.

Initial Accommodations:

• Short-term housing options: Booking.com or Airbnb.
• Consider using Happipad’s platform to find more affordable shared housing.

Government Services:

• Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work and access benefits at any Service Canada Centre or by mail .
• Find a Service Canada center near you using their locator tool.

3. Housing in Canada

Types of Housing:

• Apartments: Ideal for individuals or small families.
• Shared Housing: Affordable option for newcomers. Explore shared housing with Happipad’s housing options.

Tenant Rights:

Learn about your rights as a tenant on provincial websites like Ontario’s Landlord and Tenant Board or BC Housing.

4. Financial Integration

Setting Up a Bank Account:

• Major Canadian banks like RBC, TD, and Scotiabank offer newcomer banking packages.

Understanding Credit:

Build credit by using a secured credit card. Learn more at Canada.ca’s Credit Basics.

5. Healthcare

Provincial Health Insurance:

• Apply for health coverage in your province (e.g., OHIP for Ontario, MSP for British Columbia).

Finding Medical Services:

• Use Medimap to find walk-in clinics.
• Learn about refugee-specific health care coverage at IFHP.

6. Finding Work in Canada

Job Search Resources:

• Government Job Bank: jobbank.gc.ca
• Nonprofit support: YMCA Newcomer Programs.
• Job search sites: Indeed and LinkedIn

Resume Tips:

Follow Canadian resume standards with resources like Indeed’s Guide.

7. Settling Into Your New Community

Community Services:

• Use the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Tool to find local newcomer services.

Cultural Norms:

• Learn about Canadian customs, holidays, and traditions to help integrate smoothly.

8. Education

Enrolling Children in School:

• Contact your local school board (e.g., Toronto District School Board or Vancouver School Board).

Adult Education:

Find ESL (English as a Second Language) programs through Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC).

9. Happipad’s Role in Supporting Newcomers

Happipad offers affordable, secure, and compatible shared housing solutions tailored to newcomers and refugees. Learn more about our mission and services at Happipad.com.

10. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I work in Canada as a refugee?

• Yes, refugees can apply for a work permit. Learn more here.

2. How do I find affordable housing?

• Happipad’s platform connects you with shared housing solutions that are both affordable and welcoming.

Conclusion

Moving to a new country is an exciting but challenging journey. Canada offers numerous resources to support you in settling successfully. You can also explore Happipad for housing solutions. Let us help make your transition smooth and enjoyable.