Settling into a new life in Canada can be challenging, but there are many resources to help. Here are some tips to help make your first few days a little easier:
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Visit the
Ontario government Web site after you arrive to get general information about Ontario’s services and programs for newcomers to Canada
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Prepare your own schedule for your first days in Ontario. Next, compare your schedule with the
first day guide you can find online. This way, you can see if you are missing any important items
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Visit one of our
YMCA Newcomer Centres, which are located across the Greater Toronto Area. We provide a wide range of services for new immigrants and refugees, such as: language assessment; information and referral to community services; employment support; settlement workshops; access to computers and the Internet; and volunteer opportunities
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Find a temporary place to stay before you arrive in Ontario. However, make sure you
understand all your options before you sign any rental lease.
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Write down your address and phone number, if you have not yet memorized them
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Begin applying for the personal documents you need to live and work in Canada. For example, you can apply for a Social Insurance Number and Permanent Residence card right after you arrive. As soon as you can prove your residence, you can apply for a Health Card
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Buy
private health insurance for you and your family until you are eligible for government health coverage after the first three months. If you do not want to buy private insurance, find out where your local Community Health Centre is located, so you can receive primary health services if you need them
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Learn
where to shop, and learn how to open a bank account in Canada
