Living Archives

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To access free health care, you need to apply for a provincial health card. Once you are approved, you will receive your provincial health card. The health card proves that you are covered by a provincial health care program. You will have to show your health card each time you visit a doctor or receive any medical care.

You can get an application form from:

A doctor’s office

A hospital

A pharmacy

A settlement service agency.

Or, you can apply online (see section below: Provincial and Territorial Health Care Programs in Canada).

Canada has a great healthcare system that is coveted by many countries around the world. As a permanent resident, you can access many medical services that Canadians enjoy without large medical bills.

Access to free healthcare is a privilege Canadians are proud of and celebrate. And if you’re moving to Canada, here are some important things to know about how to access free health care and the medical system. As a newcomer, knowing how to get free medical care when you’re sick, or have an accident can save you from worry and out-of-pocket expenses.

Applying for health care is one of the first steps to take when you arrive in Canada.

Who Pays for Healthcare in Canada?

In Canada, public healthcare is paid for through tax money. Basic health care services, like hospital visits and medical treatment, are free. All Canadian citizens and permanent residents may apply for public health insurance. This insurance can save you money and provide you and your family peace of mind.

When to Appy for Free Healthcare?

You should apply for health care coverage soon after you land in Canada. Unfortunately, you cannot apply for health care coverage before you arrive in Canada.

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Settle in Canada with Confidence and Ease

Ontario Health Card Application Process

Alberta Health Card | What it Covers & How to Apply

Newcomer Steps to Apply for a Saskatchewan Health Card

Is there a Waiting Period?

In some provinces, you may have to wait up to three months to be eligible for a government health card. This waiting period applies to permanent residents in:

Province	Waiting Period
British Columbia	Coverage begins three months after your arrival date
Manitoba	Coverage begins on the first day of the third month after arrival
New Brunswick	Coverage begins after you submit your application form
Northwest Territories	Coverage begins when your application is approved
Quebec	Waiting period of up to three months
Saskatchewan	Coverage begins within six to eight weeks of your application date
Yukon	Coverage begins after three months

To protect yourself during this waiting period, you can buy private insurance to cover you and your family from unexpected healthcare costs.

What are the differences between the provincial health plans my family will be joining and the Medical Insurance you offer?

Do You Need Private Health Insurance?

The free healthcare that Canadian citizens and permanent residents enjoy gives you access to basic medical services. But, not everything is covered. So, it’s important to think about:

What coverage do you need if you land in any of the provinces with waiting periods (British Columbia, New Brunswick) to protect you during that time?

2. The health care needs of you and your family (for example, do any family members have health issues that have costs that aren’t covered?)

3. Do you require supplemental (or extra) private insurance to meet your health care needs (for example, do any family members have extensive health care needs?)

Your employer may offer a health care benefits package. Many immigrants to Canada are unaware that most companies offer their employees benefits. A benefits package will cover some, or all of the costs for dental, medications, and other services not covered by a government healthcare program.

Canadians in every province can purchase additional private travel medical health insurance to cover services not covered by a government health care program, or an employer’s health care benefits program.

Watch the video for an overview of the importance of travel medical health insurance for newcomers.

What Do Provincial and Territorial Healthcare Programs Cover?

Each provincial health care program may provide slightly different coverage, so find out what is covered in the province where you live. In general, government health care programs cover things such as:

Appointments with your family doctor

Visits to walk-in clinics and some other healthcare providers

Visits to an emergency room

Medical tests and surgeries

Necessary surgery

Laboratory and other diagnostic procedures

Some examples of the hospital and medical services not covered by provincial healthcare programs include:

Most prescription drugs

Dental services

Eye exams and eyewear, like glasses or contacts

Appliances such as hearing aids, crutches, wheelchairs

Visits to physiotherapists, chiropractors, or similar health providers

Ambulance service

What If You Lose Your Health Card?

If you lose your health care card, contact the provincial health ministry to replace your card as soon as possible. You may have to pay a small replacement fee.

It’s a good idea to carry your health card in your wallet at all times in case of a medical emergency. In an emergency, hospitals will treat you without seeing your card first but, you will have to show your card later if you want the province to cover your hospital bills.

What Documents Do You Need to Apply for a Health Card to Access free Healthcare?

To apply for a provincial health card, you’ll require identification to prove your Canadian citizenship or eligible immigration status. So, you’ll need your:

Birth certificate

Passport

PR card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence

It’s best to confirm what documents you’ll need with the provincial or territorial health care program where you plan to live.

Finding a Family Doctor

Most Canadians have a family doctor or “GP” (general practitioner), so once you have coverage, you will want to find a GP. Your GP will be your first contact with the healthcare system. With the current shortage of healthcare professionals, it can take some time to find a family doctor.

To find a family doctor:

Ask a friend or family member if their doctor is accepting new patients.

Check with the province’s College of Physicians and Surgeons. They will have a list of doctors accepting patients.

Doctors generally control or direct their patients’ access to most healthcare specialists, as well as to hospital beds.

Your family doctor will:

Decide which diagnostic tests you will need and generally makes the appointments for these tests.

Prescribe any necessary medications that you can pick up at a pharmacy of your choice.

If you have a medical emergency, go to the emergency room at the nearest hospital. For non-emergencies, you can schedule an appointment with your family doctor to get treatment or a referral to a health care specialist.

What to Know About Travelling with Prescription Medication

You can bring a 90-day supply of any prescription medication that you currently take to continue your treatment. However, you must:

Carry the medication in the original hospital or pharmacy packaging

2. Have the original label on the packaging to show what the health product is and what it contains

3. Have a valid expiration date (for example: within 90 days of your arrival).

When you know how to access health care, you and your family can rest easy knowing that you are protected both medically and financially when you arrive in Canada.

Accessing Free Healthcare in Provinces and Territories in Canada

Click on the province or territory where you plan to live to learn how to apply for a government health card and access free health care.

Provinces:

Alberta: Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)

British Columbia: Medical Services Plan (MSP)

Manitoba: Health, Seniors and Active Living

New Brunswick: New Brunswick Medicare

Newfoundland and Labrador: Medical Care Plan (MCP)

Nova Scotia: Medical Services Insurance (MSI)

Ontario: Ontario Health Insurance Program (OHIP)

Prince Edward Island: Health PEI

Quebec: Québec Health Insurance Plan

Saskatchewan: eHealth Saskatchewan

Territories:

Northwest Territories: Health and Social Services

Nunavut: Nunavut Health Care Plan

Yukon: Yukon Health Insurance Plan

For helpful information about living and working in Canada, check out our free webinars and settle in Canada with ease!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easy to apply for government health coverage? How long does it take to get a health card?

When you land you will receive an envelope containing the forms you need to fill out for your Permanent Resident (PR) Card – i.e. the Permanent Resident card as well as your Health coverage card. Health services are provided by the provinces and territories, and each has different rules to access services.

In British Columbia your health care coverage does not start for 180 days so do get health insurance for you and your family as it can be expensive paying for services privately. If you are landing in another Province than those we spoke of, you can expect

I am confused about the healthcare system, having just come here a few months ago. Can you explain the system to me?

As a newcomer, it may take from six to 12 weeks to get medical coverage in several provinces, so private coverage is critical during this period.

Most Canadians have a family doctor or “GP” (general practitioner), so once you have coverage, you will want to get a GP. Your GP (or primary care physician), will be your first contact with the formal healthcare system. Here are some tips on finding a GP.

Ask a friend or family member if their doctor is accepting new patients.

Check with the province’s College of Physicians and Surgeons. They will have a list of doctors accepting patients.

Doctors generally control or direct their patients’ access to most healthcare specialists, as well as to hospital beds. It is also your doctor who decides which diagnostic tests you will need and generally makes the appointments for these tests. Your doctor will also prescribe any necessary medications, which you will then pick up at a pharmacy of your choice.

In other words, with the exception of a medical emergency — in which case you head for the emergency room at your nearest hospital — you will need to visit your primary care physician to obtain treatment or a referral for treatment for any kind of illness or medical problem.

I’m unclear on what is free in Canada’s health care system and what isn’t. Can you explain what the different costs are?

Under Canada’s health care system, all medically necessary hospital stays, including those needed for treatment of an illness or surgical and maternity services (such as childbirth, prenatal, post-natal, and newborn care, and treatment of complications surrounding a pregnancy) are covered, as are the prescription drugs while in hospital.

You will also not be asked to pay the clinic, hospital, or physician directly, and there are no deductibles or fees levied on any specific insured service. However, there are some services that are only partially covered, depending on the province, and therefore require a fee for service from the patient. And there are some “uninsured” services, meaning they are not covered at all.

Some examples of services not covered by any plan in Canada include:

medical examinations requested by third parties (such as for employment, insurance, or driver’s licence)

cosmetic surgery that is not medically necessary

dental care

vision care

limb prostheses

wheelchairs

prescription medication

podiatry and chiropractics.

With the exception of the Yukon Territory, ambulance service in Canada is generally not fully covered by the health insurance plans of any province or territory. The only exceptions are when it is necessary to transfer a patient from one hospital to another. Some provinces have capped the costs of an ambulance ride, but in other provinces, ambulance service can be very expensive.

Certain groups of the population, however, such as people over the age of 65, children, and those on social assistance, may be able to obtain these extended health services through a Pharmacare program provided by their province.

Canadians in every province, however, can purchase private extended health insurance to cover some of these uninsured health services not included in the national health care plan. Some employers also provide extended healthcare benefits to their employees to cover some of these costs.

Learn more about Canada’s Health Care System:

Can I bring my prescription medicines to Canada?

Keep prescription medicines in the original container with a label that indicates the name of the drug.

This is a common and important question. The short answer is yes, you can bring prescription medicine to Canada. This will allow you to continue the medical treatment that you are currently following. But, be sure to follow guidelines defined by Health Canada related to prescription medicines.

You can bring medication that is prescribed to you or anyone that you’re responsible for who is coming to Canada with you.

You can bring:

a single course of treatment, OR

a 90-day supply (whichever is less).

Once in Canada, you will need to visit a Canadian doctor to refill or get a new prescription. You cannot use a foreign prescription in Canada. You cannot import prescription medicine by mail or courier.

If you’re travelling to Canada, be sure to download our essential checklists and remember to bring your important medical documents.

Tips:

Pack your medications (prescriptions and essential over-the-counter (OTC) drugs in your carry-on baggage to avoid theft or loss. This includes any medical equipment such as syringes, needles, inhalers, etc.

Keep prescription medicines in the original container with a label that indicates what the drug is. Do not put medications in unmarked containers.

Be prepared to answer questions about your medications at the airport and border crossings. You do not require information from your doctor about your medical condition, but it may be helpful.

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When searching for your first home, here are five tips to ensure you get the best mortgage rates in Canada. And, to get the best rates will require you to research so you know how to select a mortgage that’s right for you. Many newcomers arrive with savings to own a home and establish roots in Canada. And getting the best mortgage rate can save you thousands of dollars over the course of your mortgage.

Buying your first home in Canada is an exciting time to make your dream of homeownership a reality. But at the same time, it can create stress and confusion. You may have questions about the real estate process in Canada, the lending process, or other important questions. And, buying a home is likely the largest and most important decision that you will make. So, it’s important to understand what’s involved, and how you can save thousands of dollars with the best mortgage rate.

Tips to Get the Best Mortgage Rates in Canada

Tip 1. Do Your Research

A home purchase is a major investment. So, spend some time researching the housing market in Canada and the lending and real estate process. Do your research so that you’re confident with the decisions you’ll have to make every step of the way. And, this includes understanding the different types of mortgages:

options (for example, open or closed mortgage)

features

restrictions.

Tip 2. Save for Your Down Payment to Get the Best Mortgage Rate

Your down payment is money you pay towards your home purchase. It is deducted from the purchase price of your home. And, the remaining amount will be covered by your mortgage loan.

A 2019 survey conducted by Royal LePage revealed that 75% of newcomers arrive in Canada with savings to purchase a home. And the great news is that those savings can help you to get the best mortgage rate.

If you can pay 20% or more of the property value, you can get a conventional mortgage loan. But, with less than 20% of your down payment, you’ll get a high-ratio mortgage. And, high-ratio mortgages require home buyers to purchase mortgage default insurance. This mortgage insurance allows homebuyers to buy a home with less than a 20% down payment of the purchase price.

However, mortgage insurance only protects your lender. Therefore, it’s important to understand the terms and conditions of mortgage insurance if you’re unable to pay your mortgage.

Homebuyers require a minimum down payment of 5% of the home purchase price. So, if you have less than 5%, keep saving!

Clearly, when you have a bigger down payment it can save you money over the lifetime of your mortgage. But, if you have less than 20% of the purchase price, your lender will require you to pay for mortgage insurance.

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Buying your first home in Canada

Savings in Canada: Helping Newcomers Invest

Building Credit History in Canada

Banking and Finance in Canada: Your Financial First Steps

Tip 3. Improve Your Credit Score

There’s nothing like a poor credit score to stand in the way of getting the best mortgage rates in Canada. The minimum required credit score to get a mortgage in Canada is between 620 – 679. But, with a good credit score (usually between 680 – 724 points), you may get better borrowing rates.

Although, even if you have a good credit score, it’s wise to practice good financial habits to increase your ability to borrow money. For example:

Spending less than 30% of your credit line

Limiting the number of credit cards you apply for

Paying all bills (phone, cable, hydro, etc) on time.

Tip 4. Get Professional Advice about Mortgage Rates

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, working with a mortgage broker can help you to navigate the complexity of mortgage products, options, and features. A mortgage broker can access a broad range of financing options.

Buying your first home in Canada can come with uncertainty about unexpected costs, affordability, or paying too much for your home. And, you’ll likely have questions that a mortgage broker can answer.

A professional mortgage broker can inform you about the variety of mortgage options and features. Because different mortgage options may be more suitable for you based on your needs and future plans. For example, you will need this information to help you make decisions related to:

mortgage type: open or closed mortgage

mortgage rate: fixed or variable interest rates.

In addition to knowledge and experience, mortgage brokers:

Help you look at what is important to you and get you the best possible mortgage rate

Discuss your down payment options and how to budget for a new home

Help you understand the financial advantages and disadvantages of your mortgage options.

Lenders may have important restrictions related to each mortgage option, and that may end up costing you more money. Working with a mortgage broker can save you thousands of dollars in your overall costs.

Tip 5. Get Pre-approved for a Mortgage

When searching for your new home, it’s difficult to predict if mortgage rates will increase or decrease. So, a pre-approved mortgage can protect you against interest rate hikes while you search. With a pre-approved mortgage, you can lock in a mortgage rate for up to 120 days.

In addition, getting pre-approved will help you understand how much you can afford to buy your first house in Canada.

Do I Need a Mortgage Broker?

Mortgage brokers work on your behalf to get you the best possible rate.

You can get a mortgage from your bank or a mortgage broker. However, working with a broker who is a subject matter expert with specialized mortgage knowledge can offer several advantages. For example, you can:

Get a better rate with a mortgage broker than a bank because mortgage brokers get wholesale rates. Bank customers get retail rates. And yes, wholesale rates are lower!

Get a wider product choice than working with a bank that will only offer the products they have.

A broker works with several lenders including top banks, credit unions, and other lenders to get you a more flexible deal. And with one single mortgage application, they get several lenders to “bid” for your business to get you the best possible rate.

In addition, a mortgage broker acts as a single point of contact who can manage everything from applying for the mortgage to negotiating your rate and disbursing the funds. All of this can create a stress-free experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process.

Key Takeaways:

Your home purchase is a major investment. Ensure you get the best mortgage rate to help you save money over the lifetime of your mortgage.

A professional mortgage broker can help you understand the different types of mortgages, features, and restrictions.

A pre-approved mortgage can help you lock in your interest rate while you search for your dream home.

Establishing roots in Canada through homeownership is exciting! Achieve your dream with the best mortgage rate to save you thousands of dollars for your mortgage.

For more information and resources, visit our Banking in Canada: Financial First Steps Resource Page.

Bullying can happen to anyone. For me, it happened at school when I first moved to Canada. It was verbal bullying – name-calling, sarcastic remarks, and taunting, mostly. I never told anyone because I didn’t know the term ‘bullying’, or how to recognize it.

According to Bullying Canada, bullying is when someone hurts or scares someone else on purpose. It is one-sided and pointed; it can be verbal, social, or physical; it can happen face-to-face, in cyberspace, or both; and it can be a one-time incident or recurring.

Types of bullying:

Verbal: includes name-calling, negative cultural or racial references, threats, taunting, and inappropriate sexual comments.

Social: includes leaving someone out on purpose, telling people not to be friends with someone, humiliating them in public, and telling rumours about them.

Physical: includes hitting, kicking, punching, spitting, shoving, chasing, poking, and stealing someone’s belongings.

Cyber Bullying includes using various online platforms (text, email, social media, the Internet) to tease someone, spread rumours about them, intimidate them, or put them down.

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Steps new Canadian parents can take to identify, prevent, and stop bullying:

Talk to your kids about bullying and how to identify it.
Teach them to tell someone if it happens to them, or if they see it happen to someone else.
Guide them on what to do if they bully someone and make it clear that it’s not ok.
Encourage your kids to deal with conflict without violence and talk things out.

Signs to recognize if your child is bullied:

Your child:

Is experiencing anxiety or withdrawal
Doesn’t want to go to school
Isn’t sleeping or eating well
Acts out aggressively
Gets upset or irritated easily
Gets frightened or intimidated by certain kids.

Effects on children can include:

Loneliness
Unhappiness
Insecurity
Fear.

Bullying can happen to children as young as five years old and should be taken seriously. It is a major power issue that can escalate. So, both children and parents must make an effort to stop it before it begins. For more information, visit www.bullyingcanada.ca.

Help your children to identify bullying and communicate openly. Encourage your child to speak up if they are being bullied or if they know someone who is. Anyone can be a target.

For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle in Canada successfully!

To most of us, Boxing Day in Canada is the holiday that comes right after Christmas. Many Canadians don’t know the history of the holiday or what its true purpose was. Today, it’s a shopping holiday where you can get great deals on everyday items. It was not always this way, however. Let’s explore the history of Boxing Day and what it has transformed into today.

When Is Boxing Day?

Boxing Day is an international holiday that many countries around the world celebrate. The holiday is celebrated on December 26, which is the day after Christmas Day. If the day falls on a weekend, the holiday shifts to the following Monday.

Why Do We Celebrate Boxing Day In Canada?

Boxing Day originated as a day to give gifts to the poor. After giving each other gifts the day before, the wealthy would box up gifts and give them to the poor. Most people serving the upper class had to work on Christmas and did not get the day off. As a result, the following day would almost serve as their Christmas. Boxing Day also became a time for the wealthy to donate to the poor.

While the idea of boxing day has been around since the 1600s, its official origin was never confirmed. Most people believe that the day was officially established in Britain during the reign of Queen Victoria.

Today, many countries linked to Britain, such as some of the Commonwealth Countries, celebrate Boxing Day. Since Canada used to be a British colony, it too celebrates the holiday.

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Is Boxing Day In Canada A Statutory Holiday?

Boxing Day is a statutory holiday for all federally regulated employees. However, not all provinces made it a statutory holiday. The only province that observes Boxing Day in Canada as a statutory holiday is Ontario. This means that if you live outside Ontario and do not work in a federally regulated industry, Boxing Day will not be a statutory holiday for you. If you live in Ontario, however, it is a statutory holiday.

While Boxing Day was originally a day for giving gifts to the poor, it has undoubtedly transformed into a shopping holiday. In recent years, the term, “Boxing Week”, has started to become popular. This is because of the sales that take place during the week after Christmas. For some families, December 26th can also serve as a way to extend Christmas celebrations. As mentioned above, some Canadians have Boxing Day as a statutory holiday, so they can take the day off.

Boxing Day in Canada has become a great way to save on household items you are planning to buy. If you know you need a new TV, and Boxing Day is a month away, it is usually worth waiting. Boxing Day sales can save you hundreds of dollars if you plan and time your big purchases correctly. Things like electronics, furniture, clothes, and home renovation items usually face tremendous discounts during Boxing Week.

What Stores Offer Boxing Day Sales in Canada

From large corporations to local businesses, almost every store in Canada offers Boxing Day sales. In this section, we will look at some of the most common stores across Canada and what items you will find on discount.

Walmart

Walmart is one of the biggest corporations in the world. It also offers some of the biggest discounts during Boxing Day in Canada. Most items sold by Walmart receive sales during Boxing Week, with the exception of food items. The items that receive the biggest sales are electronics, appliances, and furniture. You might also be able to find discounts on various other items such as toys and clothing.

Best Buy and Staples

Both Best Buy and Staples are some of the best brick-and-mortar stores to buy electronics. They are famous for holding massive sales during certain times of the year, including Boxing Day. Best Buy and Staples also have Back-to-School Sales and Black Friday sales so it is a good idea to be on the lookout for both.

Canadian Tire

Canadian Tire is another big retail store that offers great deals on Boxing Day. You will find a wide variety of items on sale if you do your research. Some common products that are usually on sale include small kitchen appliances, kitchenware, garden tools, and much more. To get a better idea of what items in Canadian Tire are on sale, click here.

https://www.prepareforcanada.com/after-you-arrive/manage-your-finances/cost-saving-ideas-for-newcomers

These are just some examples of stores that offer Boxing Day deals. Almost all big retailers, and even some small businesses, extend the sale for a week. Make sure to be on the lookout for such sales if you are planning to make a big purchase in the near future.

While the holiday began as a way to give gifts to the poor and allow people to enjoy a day off, it has taken on a completely different role today. Commonly referred to as a shopping holiday, Boxing Day in Canada has become a great way to save money. Today, the holiday mainly serves as a shopping holiday and an extra day to enjoy the Christmas holidays.

Ontario currently has a population of 14.8 million and the Government of Ontario is projecting the province to grow to over 20.4 million by 2046. It could even surpass 21 million in a high growth scenario. And, most of this growth will be driven by immigration. The greatest population growth has mainly been in southern Ontario within the area known as the “Golden Horseshoe” This includes the area along the shores of Lake Ontario from Oshawa to St. Catharines and includes the Greater Toronto Area and the City of Hamilton.

Ontario’s growth is a good news story reflecting that newcomers are choosing Ontario cities to start their new life in Canada. Immigration has long played an important role in Ontario’s social, cultural and economic fabric. And, today Ontario continues to welcome people from more than 150 countries. A sign of its diversity is the number of languages that you can hear people speaking on our streets.

Ontario is a land of opportunity! And its prosperity has been built by the hard work of generations of immigrants. If you’re considering living in Ontario, learn more about its population, location and regions, cities, economy, and culture.

Province of Ontario flag flying high alongside the Canada flag.

Where is Ontario Located?

Located in central Canada, Ontario has the country’s largest population. While it has the largest population, approximately 85% of people live in large cities located on the shores of the Great Lakes. But, the land area of the province is enormous. It’s the second-largest province after Quebec and covers an area of more than 1 million square km.

There are vast distances between its largest cities. For example, the distance between Toronto in southern Ontario and Ottawa in the eastern part of the province is 452 km. That’s about a five-hour drive. The distance between Toronto and Windsor is 362 km or about a four-hour drive.

Ontario shares a border with Manitoba to the west, Quebec to the east, James Bay and Hudson Bay to the north, and the Great Lakes and the United States border to the south. The five Great Lakes (Lakes Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior) hold one-fifth of the world’s freshwater surface.

Map of Ontario, Canada bordered by the provinces of Manitoba, Quebec, the Great Lakes, and Hudson Bay.

Ontario, Canada Time

Most of Ontario Canada is in the Eastern Time Zone. However, officially some communities in Ontario’s Northwest region fall in the Central Time Zone. The province follows Daylight Saving Time (DST). At the beginning of DST in the Spring, people move their clock forward by one hour. In the Fall, people move their clock back one hour when DST ends.

Ontario’s Indigenous Peoples

For newcomers to Ontario, learning about the history of indigenous peoples in Canada can help to build a better future. Celebrating the unique heritage of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples is a vital way to recognize the Indigenous Peoples who were here before any newcomers arrived in Canada.

There are 133 First Nations communities located across Ontario that represent major cultural and linguistic groups. This makes Ontario home to 23% of all Indigenous peoples in Canada. First Nations communities are located from Windsor in the south to the Northern shores of Hudson Bay. There are over 30 remote First Nations in Ontario that are only accessible by air year-round or ice road access for most of the year. However, many indigenous peoples live off-reserve in urban cities including Thunder Bay, Sudbury, Ottawa, and Toronto.

What are the Main Industries in Ontario?

Ontario is a hub for economic opportunities. It offers a unique combination of resources, manufacturing, exports, and a focus on innovation. The province is home to almost 50% of all employees in high tech, financial services and knowledge industries. Other sectors that drive the highly diverse economy include:

Construction:

With a number of major infrastructure projects, combined with new housing and renovation activity, the construction industry is a large employer for Ontarians. And, faced with labour shortages, the industry continues to focus on building a more diverse labour force and recruiting newcomers to Canada.

Manufacturing:

Ontario is Canada’s manufacturing powerhouse. Key manufacturing industries include auto, information and communications technologies, biotech, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. Innovation is always at the forefront whether it’s creating the next generation of autonomous vehicles or streamlining aerospace, food processing, and cleantech processes.

Ontario is one of the top producers of vehicles in North America with assembly plants in Windsor, Brampton, Cambridge, and other cities in the province.

Agriculture:

Much of Ontario’s south is covered by high-quality farmland that produces fruit crops, vegetables, cash crops such as soybeans, corn, wheat and barley, commercial dairy, beef, poultry, and hog farms.

Forestry:

Forestry plays a major role in the province’s economy and supports many direct and indirect jobs across Ontario communities. Ontario wood supports the livelihoods of about 147,000 people. The province is one of Canada’s most forested regions that support a range of in-demand products such as lumber, furniture, flooring, and plywood. Ontario wood supports

Mining:

Ontario’s mining industry is a global leader in productivity and is among the world’s top 10 producers of nickel and platinum group metals. According to the Ontario Mining Association, the average weekly wage for direct mining jobs is over 60% higher than the average industrial wage in the province.

Services:

The services sector is a large part of Ontario’s economy and includes business and financial services, professional and scientific-technical services, and arts and culture.

Tourism:

With four distinct seasons, year-round activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing make the province of Ontario a premier tourism destination.

https://www.prepareforcanada.com/before-you-arrive/settling-in-canada/oinp-pathways-to-immigrate-to-ontario

Settle in Canada with Confidence and Ease

Five Economic Regions in Ontario

Statistics Canada identifies five economic regions in Ontario: Greater Toronto Area, Central Region, Eastern Region, Northern Region, and Southwest Region. Each region also has unique geographic, and cultural differences. While all regions are forecasting employment and population growth, that growth may vary by region. So, it’s vital to research your profession so that you can create a solid career pathway.

1. Greater Toronto Area (GTA):

The Greater Toronto Area, commonly known as the GTA includes the City of Toronto, and the regional municipalities of Durham, Halton, Peel, and York. It’s a commercial, distribution, financial, and economic centre with the second largest financial centre in North America. It has one of the highest concentrations of financial services company headquarters in the Americas.

Toronto is a destination city that people from around the globe recognize. But there are other cities located within the GTA that are close to Toronto such as:

Mississauga and Brampton in Peel Region

Oshawa and Burlington in Halton Region

Markham and Richmond Hill in York region.

With many jobs currently in demand in the GTA, some of the most in-demand include:

Software engineers and designers

Sales and account representatives

IT consultants

Human resources professionals

Administrative assistants.

Click here to browse jobs in Ontario.

2. Ontario’s Central Region

The central region includes the economic regions of Muskoka-Kawartha, Kitchener-Waterloo-Barrie, and Hamilton-Niagara Peninsula. This region includes the cities of:

Barrie

Hamilton

Kitchener-Waterloo

St. Catharines

Much of the Central Region is covered by farms, lakes (with freshwater beaches), and rivers. The region also has a large tourism sector because of the many recreational activities it offers.

Horseshoe Resort near Barrie, Ontario is a premier tourism destination.

3. Ontario’s Eastern Region

This economic region includes Ottawa and Kingston-Pembroke. Ottawa is the nation’s capital and home to Parliament Hill and Buildings. With Canada’s Federal Government located in Ottawa, the city offers great career options in government and the tech sector. Learn more about living in Ottawa.

4. Ontario’s Northern Region

The northern part of the province is experiencing strong growth in key sectors of the economy including construction, forestry, mining and manufacturing. The Northern Region also continues to develop as an important natural resource, service, and transportation centre.

Two economic regions are within the Northern Region: the Northeast and the Northwest. Notable cities in the Northeast Region include Sudbury and Thunder Bay in the Northwest Region. The Sudbury Basin is a geological phenomenon that runs 100 km wide and 15 km deep. At the edge of this basin are nickel, copper, and other minerals that make Sudbury one of Canada’s largest mining centres.

Another growing sector is health sciences due to innovations in medical research and science facilities in the region.

5. Ontario’s Southwest Region

The Southwest Region is shaped by nature and is also Canada’s most southern region. It has deep agricultural roots due to its milder climate and longer growing and harvest seasons.

Key cities in this region include:

London

Windsor

Cornfield located near Windsor, Ontario. Corn is one of Ontario’s large agricultural products.

Is Ontario an Expensive Place to Live?

Although it’s the province in Canada with the most opportunities for newcomers, it can be an expensive place to live. In part, this is due to having some of the highest housing costs in Canada, especially in Toronto and the GTA. Housing costs comprise the largest living expense, but other costs include:

Utilities (including electricity and communication services) usually not included in rent

Food & Groceries

Transportation

Childcare

Insurance.

If you plan to live in Ontario, it’s wise to take financial steps before you move to Canada and prepare to manage your costs. The cost of living can vary by city as well. When researching cities to live in, it’s helpful to research both the average wages for your profession by region as well as housing and living costs.

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Ontario’s Climate

Ontario has regional climate differences. For example, Northern Ontario has longer and colder winters than Southern Ontario. You’ll find the weather is warmest in Windsor, Ontario’s most southern city.

Areas that receive westerly winds off the Great Lakes are often called the “snow belt” and can receive excessive snow. In contrast, the areas around Toronto and Hamilton are in the partial rain shadow of the Niagara Escarpment and receive less than 150 cm of snow annually.

In the summer, temperatures can rise above 30°C (86°F), while in the winter they can drop below -40°C (-40°F).

Ontario Health Card Application Process

Getting Your Ontario Drivers License

Culture and Diversity in Ontario

In addition to driving Ontario’s population growth, immigration fuels economic growth, reunites families and promotes culture and diversity in communities. In fact, the City of Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities in the world. You can explore international neighbourhoods such as Little India, Little Italy, Chinatown, Greektown, and more!

The province is highly diverse with over 250 ethnic origins. Cities across Ontario welcome newcomers to contribute to their social, economic, and cultural vitality. Settlement services throughout the province help newcomers adapt and thrive in their new communities.

Studying in Ontario

Its excellent higher education system is among the many reasons international students choose to study in the province. Ontario is home to 23 public universities, 24 colleges, and more than 400 registered private colleges. While Canada leads other Western countries with the rise of international students, Ontario hosts the largest number of students in its post-secondary schools.

Economic immigrants with at least one year of Canadian study experience had higher earnings 10 to 11 years after immigration than those without such experience, regardless of whether they had pre-admission Canadian work experience. These findings suggest that, for economic immigrants who are new graduates and new entrants to the labour market, Canadian credentials translate into stronger economic outcomes in the longer term.
International students as a source of labour supply: A summary of recent trenDs
Statistics Canada: March 2022

Provincial Attractions

Lighthouse Park and beach on Lake Huron in Southwestern Ontario.

Among many of the popular attractions that contribute to Ontario’s booming tourism industry are the world-famous Niagara Falls, Science North in Sudbury, and Parliament Hill in Ottawa. Ontario is also home to six national parks and over 300 provincial parks and beaches.

Get a flavour of life in cities in Ontario when you visit our Choosing a City page.

Canada is one of the largest countries in the world. Many new immigrants come to the country because of the vast opportunities and variety of unique cities to choose from. Many newcomers choose to move to the province of Alberta because of the more affordable living expenses and economic opportunities. While Calgary and Edmonton are typically the main destinations, moving to Lethbridge is worth considering.

When assessing a city, it’s helpful to research the job market, housing options, and community culture. Each one of these will influence your lifestyle. If you are considering moving to Lethbridge, Prepare for Canada can guide you.

About Lethbridge, Alberta

Lethbridge is located in the south-central region of Alberta. It’s located close to the Canadian Rocky Mountains and is known for its warm summers and mild winters. It’s an ideal location for people who enjoy exploring the outdoors.

The city’s prime location makes it a major hub for transportation and business for Southern Alberta. The city is about a two-hour drive south of Calgary, and it’s just over one hour north of the United States border into the state of Montana.

The Lethbridge area was originally inhabited by First Nations and was created to support drift mining. It was incorporated as a town in 1890 and later as a city in 1906.

How Many People Live in Lethbridge, Alberta?

According to the 2021 Census, there are 98,406 residents. This is an increase of 6.1% since 2016. The city has experienced significant population growth since 2000. The Census Metropolitan Area has a population of close to 125,000. It’s the fourth largest city in Alberta.

How to Find a Job & Build a Career in Lethbridge

Lethbridge’s Local Economy

Lethbridge was originally established on drift mining for coal and later developed into a primarily agriculture-based economy. However, it has become more diversified over the past few decades. It has become the industrial, commercial, distribution, and financial centre for southern Alberta. About half of the workforce is in hospitality, health, education, or retail.

The top industries in Lethbridge are:

Health

Education

Wholesale and retail

Hospitality and food services

Construction

Manufacturing

Business and professional services.

Major Employers in Lethbridge

Lethbridge employs over 80,000 people, some of who commute from other close by towns. Most of the major employers in the city are government-based. Top employers in the area include:

Alberta Health Services

University of Lethbridge

Lethbridge School District

City of Lethbridge

Lethbridge College

Alberta Government

Sunrise Poultry

Covenant Health

Lethbridge Research Centre.

Alberta Health Services

Career Pathways in Lethbridge

Lethbridge is an ideal location if you want to work in health, education, or government services. You can search for a job online through the Alberta job centre website. You can also connect with local recruiting agencies such as Select People Solutions, Positive Lifestyles Recruitment (PLR), and Hire Standard Inc.

The Lethbridge Housing Market

Finding the right home to fit your lifestyle and financial situation is an important decision to make. Lethbridge has lots of options. The city has close to 40 neighbourhoods spanning three main regions – North Lethbridge, West Lethbridge, and South Lethbridge. The west is the newest area and is home to Lethbridge University. This has been the main growth area for the city.

Lethbridge is very affordable compared to other cities in Alberta and other provinces.

Is Housing Expensive in Lethbridge, Alberta?

Alberta is the main option for newcomers because of its more affordable real estate compared to other parts of Canada. Lethbridge is very affordable compared to other cities in the province and across the country. You can find the lowest prices in the Park Meadows neighbourhood.

Finding a Place to Rent in Lethbridge

Lethbridge rental rates are very affordable. About 30% of the population are renters. You can find a place to rent for as low as $750 per month. You can pay anywhere from $700 to $1,500 or more depending on the type of apartment you need. The average rent for an apartment in Lethbridge is $954 for a Bachelor, $1024 for a 1 Bedroom, $1163 for a 2 Bedroom, and $1323 for a 3 Bedroom.

Use Rentals for Newcomers to search for available rental units in Lethbridge. Here, you can also find current rental prices in Lethbridge. It’s a great resource to help you find a place to rent quickly. When looking for a place to live, consider buying . This will give you protection for your family and personal belongings.

Get more information about renting a home: Renting in Canada: What Newcomers Need to Know.

Buying a Home in Lethbridge

Lethbridge real estate prices are significantly more affordable than in other areas of the country. About 70% of the population own a home. Even though costs have increased by over 10% in the past year, you can pay hundreds of thousands of dollars less. According to the real estate website Zolo, the median price for a home is $399,000. The median price for a townhouse is $270,000 and the median price for a condo is $155,000.

Driving & Public Transit in Lethbridge

Driving in Lethbridge, Alberta

Four provincial highways pass through the city, Highway 3, 4, 5, and 25. The city is located along the CANAMEX Corridor. This freeway system connects Canada to Mexico through the United States. Therefore, the city sees a lot of commercial truck traffic.

The majority of people drive in Lethbridge. According to Statistics Canada, 91% of residents drive. You can get a learner’s licence at the age of 14. But you must complete the graduated licencing program to become fully licenced in Alberta.

Get more information about driving in Canada:

Driving in Canada: 10 Essential Facts to Know

Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide

Tips for Winter Driving to Ensure Your Safety

Lethbridge Public Transit

Lethbridge Transit operates a fleet of 40 buses for more than a dozen routes throughout the city. Lethbridge Airport is a commercial airport offering commercial flights to Calgary.

Community Support for Newcomers

Lethbridge is not known for being a diverse city. But it does have a strong support program for new immigrants moving to the city. Newcomers can get assistance with Resettlement, translation, and a variety of community support services through the Lethbridge Local Immigration Partnership (LIP) initiative. This is funded by Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and is in partnership with Lethbridge Family Services.

Language Support in Lethbridge

There are a variety of private and public resources newcomers can use to receive language support. Some include Lethbridge Family Services, Language Linx, and Southern Alberta Language Assessment Services. You can get Interpretation/translation services in over 20 different languages through the LIP program.

Personal Finance & Banking

Setting up a bank account and organizing your finances is important when you move to Canada. All local banks offer programs for new immigrants to open a bank account. There are also programs in place to help you get a line of credit, mortgage, and access to other financial products. Visit a bank close to your home or fill out an application online.

Get more banking tips for newcomers:

Top 10 Financial Steps to Take Before You Leave for Canada

Move to Canada | Transferring Cash & Valuables

Open a Bank Account Before Arriving in Canada

How Much Money Will I Need to Move to Canada?

Lethbridge’s Education System

Lethbridge has a strong education system. Families can enroll their children in public, private, Catholic, or French language schools. You also have access to daycare and childcare programs for children who are not old enough to attend school.

Elementary and High School Education

Three school boards oversee the education system, the Lethbridge School Division, Holy Spirit Roman Catholic School Division, and the Palliser School Division, which oversees education in areas outside the city. In the public board, there are five high schools, four middle schools, and 14 elementary schools. In the Catholic board, there are 15 schools.

Post Secondary Institutions

The University of Lethbridge is one of two post-secondary institutions in this city.

The city is home to two post-secondary institutions, University of Lethbridge and Lethbridge College. Red Crow Community College also has a campus in the city.

Where To Get Medical Care in Lethbridge, Alberta

Lethbridge has one hospital, the Chinook Regional Hospital on the city’s south side and easily accessible from all parts of town. In case of an emergency call 9-1-1. This number is the same no matter where you live in Canada. The city also has many walk-in clinics you can visit for non-emergency care.

Many health services are free for people covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Newcomers can apply for the AHCIP three months before leaving their country of origin. If your employer doesn’t offer health benefits, you can purchase individual .

How to Find A Family Doctor In Lethbridge

Finding a family doctor is important to ensure your family has access to proper health care. However, you may need to be put on a waiting list until a doctor accepts new patients. You can use this College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta online search tool to find a doctor.

What is Day-to-Day Life Like in Lethbridge?

Things to Do in Lethbridge

There is no shortage of things to do in the city. There are many parks, golf courses, shopping, eateries, and vast outdoor sites to explore. Lethbridge is known for its parkland. 16% of the city is designated as parkland for residents to enjoy.

The Galt Museum is one of many art galleries in Lethbridge.

Public Spaces & Attractions

The south side of the city has the majority of attractions. Downtown is home to Park Place Mall and Galt Gardens. The city is home to art galleries, including the Southern Alberta Art Gallery (SAAG), Galt Museum, and CASA. You can also check out Fort Whoop-Up, Pure Casino, and the Helen Schuler Nature Centre.

Restaurants & Nightlife

There are many great restaurants, bars, and pubs in the city. If you are hungry check out Italian Table, Two Guys and A Pizza Place, Bootsma Bakery, and ITEA Express. If you are thirsty, check out The Penny Coffee House, Sonder Coffee Bar, Theoretically Brewing Company, and Spectrum Ale Works.

Nikka Yuko Japanese garden is a natural landscape attraction.

Nature & Natural Landscapes

There are a lot of natural landscapes to explore in the region. Some of the main attractions are Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, Henderson Lake Park, Indian Battle Park, Park Lake Provincial Park, and Elizabeth Hall Wetlands.

Sporting Events & Concerts

The city is home to the Lethbridge Hurricanes of the Western Hockey League and other amateur sports teams. If you want to see live music or concerts, check out the local listings at The Geomatic Attic and Enmax Centre.

Culture & Diversity In Lethbridge

Diversity

Lethbridge has a large European community. 30% have English heritage, 23% are German, and 22% are Scottish.

Close to 13% of the population are immigrants and 2.3% are recent newcomers to Canada. So, the city is becoming more diverse as a higher number of immigrants move to the area. The most common minority language spoken in the city is Spanish.

The largest visible minority group is South Asian. They make up 2.3% of the population. Others include Black (2.1%), Filipino (1.9%), Latin American (1.7%), and Chinese (1.4%). 7.1% of the population are Aboriginal.

Worship

Two-thirds of residents identify as Christian. 32% of residents do not have a religious affiliation. The remaining residents are a combination of Buddhists, Sikhs, Muslims, Jews, and Hindus.

The Weather in Lethbridge

Lethbridge has a semi-arid climate. It is known for its warm summers and mild winter weather because of its southern location in the province. The city has one of the lowest amounts of precipitation in the country. It has an average high temperature of 26 degrees Celsius in July and August and an average low of -12 degrees in January.

Common Questions Immigrants Ask About Living in Lethbridge

Is Lethbridge a good place for new immigrants to Canada?

Even though it’s not as diverse as other Canadian cities, Lethbridge has much to offer newcomers. The city is actively seeking newcomers to fill many open job positions. So, you’ll be able to quickly find work. There are many affordable housing options, so you will have no trouble finding a place to live, making your transition easy.

What are the disadvantages of living in Lethbridge for new immigrants?

There are not a lot of significant disadvantages to moving to Lethbridge. It’s a smaller city and it is somewhat remote. So, if you want to live in a big city, this is not the place for you. The economy is not as diverse as in other regions, but there are still ample opportunities in a variety of fields.

What are the benefits of living in Lethbridge?

There are a lot of attractive features that make Lethbridge an ideal location to live. It has a low cost of living and much more affordable rental and real estate costs compared to other parts of the country. It also has a strong economy and education system.

Burlington is a medium-sized city that is located along Lake Ontario. It is part of the Hamilton metropolitan area and is only about 60 kilometres from the City of Toronto. The city is also part of the Niagara Peninsula and the Golden Horseshoe. Learn what the city offers newcomers with this guide to living in Burlington, Ontario.

Canada is one of the best countries to live. It’s also remarkably culturally, economically, and geographically diverse. The province and city you choose to call home will have a big impact on your financial success once you arrive in the country. While Toronto gets a lot of attention, other cities close by, like Burlington, Ontario have a lot to offer new immigrants. So, it’s important to research a potential landing spot. Understanding the local economy, job opportunities, and housing are important factors in your decision.

About Burlington, Ontario

People are drawn to the city because of its natural beauty, waterfront, and great infrastructure, making it an ideal location for commuters. It has a diverse economy and its location between Toronto and Hamilton, and proximity to the United States border make it prime for economic growth. There are many highly desirable areas within the city.

In 2022, Resonance Consultancy ranked Burlington as one of Canada’s 25 Best Small Cities. The city took first place in the Safety subcategory, often a key consideration when selecting a new community.

In 2019, Maclean’s Magazine rated Burlington as Canada’s Best Community and Best Community in Canada for Families. This was based on the local economy, commute, crime, amenities, and culture.

Burlington was originally established as a village in 1874. It received city status in 1974, the same year it surpassed 100,000 residents. Today, there are nearly twice as many residents.

How Many People Live in Burlington, Ontario?

The city of Burlington has a population of 186,948 according to the 2021 Census. This is a 2% increase from 2016. The city is the 28^th biggest population-wise, making it an ideal location for newcomers interested in moving to a smaller city.

How to Find a Job & Build a Career in Burlington

Burlington’s Local Economy

Burlington has a diverse economy that is not dominated by a single industry. However, it is known for agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation because of its strategic location. The city is home to over 13,000 businesses, employing more than 85,000 people. If you are looking for work in Burlington, consider these top industries:

Advanced manufacturing

Software development

Professional and technical services

Clean technologies

Food and beverage

Information and communication technology (ICT)

Logistics.

Major Employers in Burlington

The city offers newcomers diverse job opportunities and some of the major employers include:

Boehringer Ingelheim

Cogeco

EMC Corporation of Canada

Evertz Microsystems

Sofina Foods Inc.

Deloitte.

Career Pathways in Burlington

The Burlington Economic Development Centre is a partner in the Global Skills Strategy (GSS) from the Canadian government. This program looks to attract skilled individuals from other countries. This is an opportunity for newcomers to secure a work permit. You can also search for jobs on company websites or connecting with local recruiters such as Randstad Canada, Elby Professional Recruitment Inc, and AppleOne Employment Services.

The Burlington Housing Market

Is Housing Expensive in Burlington, Ontario?

Burlington is a desirable city to live in Ontario and housing costs reflect this with some of the highest real estate and rental costs. It’s following the same trend as other cities in the region such as Oakville, St. Catharines, and the Niagara region.

Burlington has great neighbourhoods such as Aldershot, Alton Village, Brant Hills, Dynes, Headon Forest, Longmoor, Palmer, Plains, Tansley, and many others.

Finding a Place to Rent in Burlington

Burlington is one of the most expensive cities in Ontario for rentals. Rates start at about $1,500 and go up from there. The average cost to rent an apartment in Burlington is $2053 for a 1 Bedroom, $2,349 for a 2-bedroom, and $2,260 for a 3-bedroom. Use Rentals for Newcomers to search for available rental units in Burlington. Here, you can also find current rental prices in Burlington.

Once you find a place to rent, make sure to protect it with in Canada, property owners may request proof of insurance as part of the rental agreement. Your landlord’s insurance policy will not cover you.

Get more information about renting a home: Renting in Canada: What Newcomers Need to Know.

Buying a Home in Burlington

A home in Burlington can be expensive. How much you pay depends on location, size, features, and other factors. According to the real estate website Zolo, the average house price in Burlington is $1,245, 837 (As of July 2022). The average price of a townhouse is $831,000 and the average price for a condo is $628,000.

Find out more about buying your first home in Canada: First Time Home Buyer: Newcomer Tips.

Driving & Public Transit in Burlington

Driving in Burlington, Ontario

Burlington is located along a major transportation corridor. Several major highways run through the city including Highway 403, Highway 407 ETR, and the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW). Many people commute in the region and highway traffic can delay driving times. Road conditions can be difficult during the winter.

All drivers are required to have a valid Ontario driver’s licence. You must be 16 years old to start the graduated licencing process.

Get more information about driving in Canada:

Driving in Canada: 10 Essential Facts to Know

Driving Test in Canada: A Full Guide

Tips for Winter Driving to Ensure Your Safety

Burlington Public Transit

Burlington has a good public transit system in place. So, if you don’t drive, you can still get around the city easily. Burlington Transit offers bus service throughout the city. Three commuter GO Train stations in the city provide residents with quick access to the Greater Toronto Area.

Community Support for Newcomers

Newcomers to the city have access to community support through the Halton Region. The Halton Newcomer Strategy Steering Committee engages the community to empower newcomers living in Halton. Newcomers also have support through Refugees and Citizenship Canada and the Centre for Skills Development.

Language Support in Burlington

New immigrants can access language support through the LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) program via the Centre for Skills Development. There are two locations in the city on Appleby Line and another on South Service Road.