It takes a lot of courage to leave a life behind and move to a new country to start afresh. As I interact more and more with immigrants, I realize that a few of them come to Canada and find it difficult to adjust and find their bearing. If you’re an immigrant, this article will show you things new immigrants need to know about Canada, to make your settlement easier.
Below are six (6) things new immigrants need to know about Canada.
Things new immigrants need to know about Canada
The Canadian culture
Just as with any country, there are common cultures that the people have.
Canadians are polite and respect other people’s personal space and privacy. They are big on small talks to get the conversation going, and they often try as much as possible to avoid sensitive issues such as politics or personal issues.
Canadians also value punctuality. A typical Canadian is hardly late. Being late is seen as having no regard for one’s time and is a sign of disrespect and unseriousness.
Having been in Canada for a little while, you may notice that Canadians love to give tips to service providers. Usually, the tip is 10% to 20% of your total bill. If you’re from a country where tipping is not the norm, you might find it strange to tip people paid to do a job. The reason for tipping is to assist those who work on minimum wage (for example, bartenders, waiters, etc.). Tipping is not mandatory but is expected. So when next you go to a bar for a drink, remember to tip the bartender.
Accommodation & cost of living
The cost of living and accommodation in Canada differ according to province. Toronto and Vancouver, for instance, usually have a higher cost of living and accommodation than other provinces. So, depending on what you want and what appeals to you, you might have to check which province suits the lifestyle you’re looking to have. Note that a province with a lower cost of living and accommodation most likely has a lower salary and a few great job opportunities.
Get started with the necessary documents and credentials
When you arrive in Canada, get credentials such as a Social Identification Number (SIN), a bank account, a healthcare option, and possibly a driver’s license (some jobs require this).
Some immigrants come into Canada and take their time getting these things. Some don’t even access their healthcare options until months in Canada. Without a SIN, you can’t get a job or apply for government assistance or credit (which you might have to take advantage of). Also, a bank account is necessary for transactions to secure your finances and start building your credit.
The job market
The job market in Canada is competitive. Immigrants, especially new immigrants, find it hard to secure a job because they are new to the job system in Canada. As a result, they don’t approach the job search and job market efficiently and effectively. Download our ebook on the job system in Canada and how to land a job.
Network and volunteer
Networking gets you access to different opportunities, including work opportunities. As a new immigrant in Canada, it will be helpful to join groups of common interests, sincerely get to know people, network, and provide value. You could get job recommendations and offers from your network.
Volunteering is also a great way to network and meet new people. Asides from that, you get more job experience that will prove valuable to your resume. Who knows, you could also transition into a more permanent role.
Take advantage of settlement services
Settlement services are services that support immigrants and refugees to Canada. They help you settle and adjust to your new life in Canada. These services are free and confidential settlement services that help you look for a job, make new friends, register for language classes, assist you in accessing government/community services, understand the local culture and customs, and understand your rights in Canada. To learn more about settlement services in your province, click here.
As an immigrant, if you know these six (6) things, it will help you as you adjust and settle down in Canada. Canada is a country with lots of opportunities. Embrace it and enjoy the process.
