10 Things You Can Do to Help Adjust to Life in Canada As a New Immigrant
Summary of Key Points:
Familiarizing yourself with Canadian customs, history, languages, and social etiquette is an excellent way to help you feel more at home once you’ve arrived in the country.
You can join local groups, attend events, and ask for advice or help from neighbors to establish trust and relationships within your new community.
Knowing how Canada's publicly-funded healthcare system works will help you and your family access the care and services you need. You’ll want to find a family doctor and make sure you know your healthcare rights.
Canada’s job market is thriving, but it’s important to know how to network effectively. Learn where to look online for positions that match your skills and how to market yourself efficiently when applying.
It’s also vital to plan for the cost of living in Canada. You’ll want to open a bank account, understand taxes, and plan for your eventual retirement.
Once you’ve taken your Immigration Medical Exam (IME), submitted your complete application, and been approved to start your new life in Canada, you’ll want to make sure you can get settled comfortably. Adjusting to life in any new country can be challenging—but we’re here to help you with this list of things you can do to feel more comfortable and secure as a brand new Canadian permanent resident.
Understanding Canadian Culture and Etiquette
As a newcomer, one of the best ways to feel at home in Canada is by understanding the local culture and social etiquette. Canadians are known around the world for politeness, diversity, and love for hockey. Learning about the country's history, languages (English and French), holidays, and food will also help you appreciate your new home.
Additionally, understanding cultural nuances around things like personal space, punctuality, and social gatherings can make your transition smoother. Observing how others behave in public can make you more comfortable and familiar with these details.
Quick Fact: Canada is officially bilingual, with English and French as the national languages.
Building a Social Network
Building connections with locals and other immigrants can be immensely helpful when adjusting to life in Canada. Joining social groups, attending local events, and participating in community activities can help you build your social network.
Remember, it's okay to ask for help or advice from people around you! In fact, occasionally asking others for help or advice can be a good way to establish trust, since it demonstrates openness and vulnerability.
Helpful Tip: Look for local immigrant support groups—they can be a great source of help and information.
Understanding the Healthcare System
Canada's healthcare system is renowned worldwide for its quality and accessibility. As a new immigrant, understanding how it works, from finding a family doctor to knowing your healthcare rights, can be beneficial.
When you schedule your Immigration Medical Exam with us, you’ll have an opportunity to ask the doctor who conducts your exam any questions you have about the process. This can also be a great opportunity to ask a question or two about Canada’s healthcare system in general.
Quick Fact: Healthcare in Canada is publicly funded, ensuring all residents have reasonable access to hospitals and physicians.
Securing Employment
Finding employment is often one of the biggest challenges for new immigrants. It's essential to understand the job market, recognize the value of networking, and learn how to effectively market your skills.
Currently, many Canadian jobs are posted online. Check job sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Monster to search for positions that match your qualifications.
Helpful Tip: The Government of Canada offers programs to help immigrants understand and navigate the local job market. They also have a job board of their own!
Navigating the Education System
If you're moving with children, familiarizing yourself with the Canadian education system will help you support their academic journey. From kindergarten to post-secondary education, knowing what to expect can ease your transition.
If your children have Canadian citizenship or permanent residency, they won’t need to pay international tuition fees for post-secondary education in Canada. Domestic tuition rates tend to be much lower at most Canadian schools.
Quick Fact: Public education is free in Canada from kindergarten through to the end of secondary school.
Learning the Language(s)
If English or French isn't your first language, consider enrolling in language classes. Proficiency in either language will not only help you interact socially but can also open up more job opportunities.
Helpful Tip: The Government of Canada provides free language classes for eligible adult immigrants.
Weather Preparedness
Canada's weather can be quite diverse, with four distinct seasons. Understanding the climate, particularly the cold winters, and knowing how to prepare for it, can significantly improve your comfort.
Quick Fact: Some parts of Canada can reach temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius in the winter. Warm winter coats, hats, gloves, and boots are a must in most cities!
Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities
As a newcomer, it's crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities. This includes everything from knowing the law to understanding your responsibilities as a resident or citizen.
Quick Fact: Canada's Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, equality rights, and the right to life, liberty, and security. Find a guide to understanding the Charter of Rights and Freedoms here.
Managing Finances
Understanding the cost of living in Canada and managing your finances wisely is crucial. This includes everything from opening a bank account, understanding taxes, to planning for retirement.
Helpful Tip: Canada has a strong banking system, and most banks offer services and resources specifically for newcomers. When choosing a bank, be sure to ask about these programs.
Adapting to Canadian Food
Finally, adjusting to Canadian food might be a fun challenge. While poutine and butter tarts are popular traditional dishes, Canada's culinary scene is as diverse as its population, and you're likely to find food from your home country in larger cities.Try to explore the local farmers' markets and supermarkets, where you can find fresh, locally sourced ingredients to recreate your favorite dishes from home while also trying out new Canadian recipes.
Quick Fact: Canada is the world's largest producer of maple syrup, a popular local delicacy. Don't miss out on trying this sweet treat in a variety of ways, from drizzling it over pancakes to using it as a sugar substitute in baking!
Bonus Tip: Embrace the Journey
Embracing your new journey in Canada includes facing challenges and celebrating achievements. Remember that adjusting to a new country takes time, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed at times. Reach out for support when needed and take time to enjoy the new experiences and opportunities that living in Canada brings. You're not alone in this journey, and many resources are available to help make your transition as smooth as possible.
Quick Fact: Canada consistently ranks as one of the best countries in the world for quality of life. It is known for its high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and inclusive values.
If you still need to book your immigration medical exam, contact Panel Physician and schedule it online in just a few moments. This important step will help you submit a complete application and help you avoid processing delays while waiting for a decision.
