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Moving to Canada is a huge life decision. And choosing a city to land in this vast country is critical. Selecting the right city can play a vital role in your financial success once you arrive. Regina, Saskatchewan is one of the many cities in Canada that you can explore as a place to call home.
Choosing the right landing location is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. So researching cities in Canada is essential. Importantly, you need to understand the local job market and the housing market. Because both the job market and the housing market will have an impact on your financial success.
Prepare for Canada can guide you with helpful information about living in Regina.
Regina is the capital of Saskatchewan and the second-largest city in the province after Saskatoon. It ranks 18th in terms of population in Canada. It is one of the three prairie provinces, along with Manitoba and Alberta.
Recent economic developments have boosted job opportunities attracting new immigrants to the city. With labour shortages, Regina is an attractive destination for job seekers.
Regina is a mid-sized city with a population of 226,106 as of the 2021 census. This is a 5.4% growth in population since 2016.
Regina is among the Canadian cities with the strongest economies and the lowest unemployment rates. In terms of GDP, Regina ranks 7th in Canada. In recent years, there have been large investments in Saskatchewan’s natural resources (oil and gas, potash, and others), transportation, and manufacturing sectors.
The top industries in Regina are:
The city is home to the largest steel company in Western Canada, EVRAZ Regina. Other large employers include:
The Ministry of Immigration and Career Training in Saskatchewan forecasts job growth in 16 major industries from 2019-2023. In total, they expect 98,000 job openings in the province, many of which will be in Regina. There is a need to replace retiring workers and to support economic growth in the region.
The main industries hiring in the region are wholesale and retail, health care, agriculture, and educational services. Other industries expecting future openings include sales, skilled trades, transport operators, and business finance and administration.
You can search for jobs on the City of Regina website and through local recruiters such as Summit Search Group, Randstad Canada, and David Alpin Group.
Once you secure a job, finding a place to live in Regina is paramount for new immigrants. When moving to a new city it’s common to find a short-term rental or rent a house or apartment before buying a home.
Location is crucial in choosing a new home. Before deciding where you will live, you can research the neighbourhoods you are considering. For example, The Crescents, part of the Cathedral area, is one of the most prestigious and desirable neighbourhoods. However, its low-lying areas adjacent to Wascana Creek are prone to flooding, especially in spring when the snow melts. Any place in or around North Central and the area east of downtown known as Core is not recommended because of the high crime rates.
There are many neighbourhoods to consider if you plan to rent in Regina. The neighbourhood and the size of your unit will affect how much you will pay for rent. Rent can range anywhere from $750 to $1,300 or more. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Regina is $948.
Here are some of the best neighbourhoods in Regina for rentals:
To discover some of the best and most popular neighbourhoods for newcomers looking to rent in Regina, click here.
Browse rentals in Regina and find current rental prices.
When renting a home or apartment, consider buying renter’s insurance to protect your family, belongings, and finances. While renters’ insurance is optional, many landlords may insist you have it.
Get more information about renting a home:
Renting in Canada: What Newcomers Need to Know
Regina offers significantly more affordable housing prices compared to other large cities in Canada such as Toronto and Vancouver.
According to Royal LePage, the median cost to purchase a single-family detached home in Canada is $790,000 (Q3, 2021). The median price in Regina is significantly less – $380,800. Rates are up about 12.8% in Regina compared to the previous year.
The median price to purchase a condo in Regina is $196,500, making this an ideal option for newcomers looking to buy into the real estate market.
Find out more about buying your first home in Canada:
First Time Home Buyer: Newcomer Tips
Regina is located on the Trans-Canada Highway, a busy stretch that spans the country. Commuting to work is common in Regina. Many residents commute into the city daily. Driving in the winter can be difficult. So it’s essential to develop winter driving skills. All drivers must have a valid Saskatchewan driver’s licence.
The minimum age to get a driver’s licence in the province is 16 (you can be 15 with High School Driver Education). You will start with a beginner before getting a full licence.
To get a commercial driver’s licence you will require a class 1, 2, 3, or 4 licence. The class type will depend on your occupation. For information on obtaining a Saskatchewan driver’s licence click here.
Residents also have the option to take public transit. Regina Transit operates 23 bus routes in the city. Buses operate as early as 5:30 AM and run until 12:30 AM. Hours of operation will vary by route. For bus schedules click here.
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
Regina welcomes newcomers from around the world. And the city offers many programs and services to help you adapt to your new home. New immigrants, refugees, and temporary residents can contact the Regina Open Door Society. They can provide information and the support you need when you move into the community. Other organizations to consider are Regina Immigrant Women, and Catholic Family Service’s Newcomer Centre Career & Support Services Centre.
If you want to improve your English-speaking skills, you can visit the Language Assessment and Referral Centre (LARC). They will assess your language skills and help you find language training for newcomers.
The Regina Public Library also offers free lessons in English as an additional language. Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers vast English language services for adult newcomers.
Whether you are looking to volunteer in the community or support from the local community, Regina has many non-profit organizations to consider. Check out these volunteer opportunities from YWCA Regina.
All local banks in Regina have programs to help newcomers open a bank account and get a credit card. Visit a local bank branch to start the process.
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
There are four school systems which you can enrol your children including public, Catholic, private schools, and homeschooling.
There are two public school boards: the Regina Public School Board, which runs 45 elementary and nine high schools. The Regina Catholic School Board has 25 elementary schools and four high schools. Parents who choose to home-school their children must follow the School Board guidelines.
Some of Regina’s private schools are the Luther College High School, run by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, the Harvest City Christian Academy and the Regina Huda School, which offers Islamic education. For more information on private schools in Regina click here.
There are two post-secondary institutions in the city. The University of Regina has ten faculties and 25 academic departments which offer programs in social work, journalism, media production and studies, public policy, business administration, petroleum engineering, fine arts, software systems, education, policy studies, health studies and others.
This campus is also home to Campion College, Luther College, and The First Nations University of Canada.
Regina is also home to the Wascana Campus of the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology.
Read more about education in Canada:
Schooling in Canada | A Look at the Education System
Higher Education Offers Benefits to Newcomers
In case of an emergency call 9-1-1. This number is the same no matter where you live in Canada.
Regina residents have Saskatchewan health insurance coverage for most medical services. But, they must present their Saskatchewan Health Services Cards every time they need medical attention. For information read Newcomer Steps to Apply for a Saskatchewan Health Card.
Some people have third-party health insurance through their employer benefits packages.
Hospitals are run by the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region (RQHR). There are three healthcare facilities in Regina:
You need to find a family doctor who, if necessary, can prescribe drugs and refer you to specialists and hospitals. If you do not have a family doctor you can visit Regina’s walk-in medical clinics.
Saskatchewan Health Authority maintains an updated list of medical clinics currently accepting new patients.
Get more information about health care in Canada:
Steps to Access Free Health Care in Canada
Regina is a great place to call home. As a mid-sized city, it’s a nice place to raise a family. There are countless parks, recreation facilities, museums, arts and cultural centres and events that happen all year. There is truly something to do for everyone.
At the MacKenzie Art Gallery, you can view contemporary and historical art exhibits from Saskatchewan, other parts of Canada and around the globe.
The Regina Symphony Orchestra is Canada’s oldest continuously performing orchestra. It gives its concerts at Conexus Arts Centre, where other local and visiting musicians perform.
The Globe Theatre’s main stage is the only permanent professional theatre-in-the-round in Canada.
Downtown Regina is the place to go for a great meal. You can find restaurants that serve cuisine from around the globe. The city is host to diverse festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular are JazzFest, The Prairie Mobile Taste of Spring, and The First Nations University of Canada’s Annual Spring Celebration Pow Wow.
If you love nature, Regina offers many outdoor activities. Using the City’s online map you can locate parks, athletic fields, playgrounds, spray pads, picnic sites, and ball diamonds. Click here for a list of recreation facilities.
Regina is home to the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the Canadian Football League (CFL). As the region’s only professional team, it has a loyal and passionate fanbase.
If you are into music, the city regularly attracts top musicians from around the world.
Regina continues to become more diverse each year. The Aboriginal population is now over 20,000. It is made up primarily of First Nations, followed by Metis and Inuit. About 5.5% of the city’s population is made up of recent immigrants. The most prominent minority groups are South Asian, Filipino, Chinese, Black, and Southeast Asian.
You can find a list of churches and other places of worship here including the Hindu Temple in Regina and the Sikh Society Regina.
Most residents in Regina are Christian. According to the 2021 Census, religious groups include:
Thirty-five percent of the population reported no religion.
Is the weather really that cold in Regina? Regina has a humid continental climate. Winters are very cold, windy, and dry. In January temperatures are between －２1．６°C and －１０．７°C, but sometimes they drop below -40°C. Wind can make winter temperatures feel even colder. There are about 86.5 days a year with a wind chill of -20°C or less, 43.2 days that it feels like -30°C or colder and 16.3 days with a wind chill of -40°C or lower.
Summer temperatures are usually between 12°C and 26°C; however, they may rise to 40 °C. While it may be cold in the winter, Saskatchewan gets lots of sunshine! In fact, it averages the most sunshine in any Canadian province!
Here is a breakdown of the type of weather you can expect:
Many immigrants want to know “where is Regina on the map?” It is a great question to ask before you choose to move. Regina, the capital city of Saskatchewan is located in central Canada. Regina is the second-largest city in the province. The next closest city is Saskatoon, which is about 235 kilometres away. Winnipeg, Manitoba is 535 kilometres.
The number of recent immigrants has increased greatly. For example, in 2005, there were just over 2,000 new immigrants in the province. In 2020, this number grew to over 13,000 with many immigrants settling in Regina.
Absolutely! Regina, Saskatchewan is a diverse community. The job market is growing across many industries. The average housing prices are more affordable than in many other large cities in Canada. And the city offers support programs to help newcomers adapt when they arrive.
There are many benefits to living in Regina. The city has a strong economy, low taxes, and a more affordable cost of living. And, there is ample opportunity for personal and professional growth. But, if there is one thing people say is not appealing about the city, it’s the cold weather.
Contract employment can be a great option when you first arrive in Canada. Contract or temporary employment is very common in Canada. And, it can be beneficial for newcomers who are looking to:
Contract employment is a set term agreement between an employer and a candidate. In some cases, these contracts are managed directly by the employer. But, sometimes a third party will hold the contract with the candidate, and possibly manage the payroll on behalf of the employer.
It is important to consider your qualifications for a contract role to ensure that you find a good match. When it comes to contract work, employers look for people who can jump right into the job with minimal training. So, it’s ideal if you have experience and qualifications that directly relate to the job.
Contract work is generally advertised in the same places as permanent employment. Some companies hire contract staff directly but most will use a recruitment agency or non-profit organization. Also, you can also find contract positions on job boards. You can usually find contract positions in a separate section on job boards. As well, settlement agencies in Canada such as Next Stop Canada provide free job search assistance for newcomers. These agencies can also direct you to contract opportunities.
Are you moving to Canada soon or already here? Do you need to find a job? Would you like to find good resources for finding employment in Canada? If so, join us for a free webinar where you can ask an expert your questions. We’ll discuss what you can do to make yourself more marketable to potential employers.
REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARFor newcomers specifically, contract work can be a great opportunity. Contract work may be easier to secure than a permanent role. For example, employers may feel like they are taking a lower hiring risk when they hire people for a short-term contract. And, they may be more willing to try someone without local experience.
Because experience is an asset in contract employment, it’s less likely that an employer will feel you are overqualified.
Contract employment allows newcomers to:
When you perform well in a contract role, it can increase your chances of securing a permanent role with the company. And, you can also use your contract experience to market yourself externally. At the same time, you are meeting new people and making important connections in your industry.
This depends on the person. Some people may be concerned about not feeling like part of a team as a contract employee. Another disadvantage is that contract employment usually doesn’t cover benefits such as dental and health coverage. So, you would have to arrange health coverage for yourself. Also, some people find it challenging to have to start job searching again at the end of the contract. But, some people actually prefer to work on set-term contracts because it allows them more freedom, choice, and a variety of projects that they work on. Overall, the professional advantages of contract employment, plus the flexibility that it provides may counter the downsides.
Contract employment can be a great way to gain Canadian experience quickly after you land in Canada. However, it’s important to find a permanent job so remember to keep applying for other positions. And most importantly, stay positive while you search for permanent employment!
For more information, tools, resources, and free webinars visit finding a job in Canada. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals in Canada!
Newcomers know from experience the challenges that you will face when you arrive and begin job searching in Canada. But, based on their journeys, you can gain from their wisdom. Here are five things that newcomers wish they knew or did differently related to their job search efforts.
Linda Ryan is the National Program Manager with BCCA-Integrating Newcomers, a government funded, Canada-wide, pre-arrival career coaching service for high skilled construction professionals immigrating to Canada (*BCCA-IN). A career and certified performance coach, she and the BCCA-IN team specialise in helping newcomers plan for, and achieve, employment success, no matter what city or province they are moving to.
When it comes to job searching in Canada, Ryan works closely with newcomers who are eager to continue their careers in Canada. Ryan shares what some of the most common issues are that they face and how to overcome them.
Ryan states that the best way to spend your time is to research your industry and the roles within it. When job searching in Canada, it’s vital to know the industry trends and challenges. When you invest time to research the industry, it helps you to plan job search activities and shape your career in Canada. For example, in addition to identifying trends, it’s also helpful to know:
When you know this information it will help you to focus your career-building activities and get the best out of your efforts.
The thing to know here is that “networking is as important as job hunting” says Ryan. She adds that blindly sending out resumes when you first arrive in Canada is not all that effective. Newcomers are often surprised at how important networking is, especially when building an early career in Canada.
Ryan suggests helpful tips such as joining newsfeeds or discussion groups on LinkedIn and:
Ryan advises against sending connection requests on LinkedIn for the purpose of ‘asking for a job’. Because as she explains Canadians like to get to know you, your track record and even a little of your life story. It’s the same in the business world, and when people know you, they get to know what you know!
Do you want one-on-one coaching to help you continue your construction career in Canada before you arrive? The Integrating Newcomers program is for you if you’re a technical professional e.g. tradesperson, engineer (in any discipline), architect, technician, technologist, project manager, estimator, or analyst. This Canada-wide, pre-arrival service can help you get started!
REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARAnother thing that Ryan hears is how newcomers wished they had expanded their communities beyond their friends and family when they arrived. So what exactly does this look like? Well, Ryan shares that newcomers often wished they had spent time getting more ‘Canadian experience’ through:
These are all important ways to help your job search in Canada.
They also wished that they took more time to look for the right work that they truly wanted as opposed to taking work that paid ‘survival’ money. If they had, they would have invested better in their long-term success.
Newcomers often tell Ryan that they should have invested more time using free or low-cost online English as a Second Language (ESL) training and tools. “I couldn’t agree more!” says Ryan. Before you arrive in Canada, it’s important to improve your English language skills. Doing so will dramatically increase your confidence and how you authentically connect with communities and professionals. When you’re confident, it will lead to greater success when job searching in Canada.
Job searching is stressful. Added to that stress, as a newcomer, you’re busy when you first land in Canada. Searching for work, finding accommodation, navigating transit, setting up basics, and adapting to life in Canada are all time-consuming. Ryan’s advice is to plan your time like a pro. She says, “your best approach is to think of this time in your life as strategic project management. For example, assign an hour each day to job search and research, an hour to logistics and getting settled, and an hour connecting with settlement, professional associations, and employment support services. After that, get out, explore your community and meet people. After all, you came to Canada for a new life. It’s important to make sure it’s as balanced as possible!”
*The BCCA-Integrating Newcomers program is a free, pre-arrival, Canada-wide service, focused on helping high-skilled newcomers explore and build successful construction careers. Services include one-on-one career guidance, tailored resume, cover letter, LinkedIn advice, and an in-depth skills and education assessment to help newcomers focus on the best career, credentials and connections activities. The Integrating Newcomers team not only has multi-industry experience but are also immigrants who have built successful careers in Canada.
While there are many things to do, here are the top 10 financial steps to take before you leave for Canada. And when you take these steps, it will prepare you for better financial footing when you arrive in Canada.
Having a Canadian bank account before departure has many benefits. You can use the statement as proof of funds for the immigration officer at the Canadian airport, you don’t have to carry cash and worry about safety, and you have funds ready to use and don’t have to wait a week before a draft clears. Scotiabank is one of the few banks that allow you to open a bank account online when in your home country.
Pay your debts. Review your insurance policies. Cancel your monthly services and obtain the necessary proof. Sell your property or arrange to manage it from afar. In the stress of moving to another country, it is incredible how easily we overlook details and leave behind loose ends. Never say “I’ll deal with it later,” because settling financial affairs from a distance often turns out costlier and more stressful.
Before you leave, research the basic costs in the city where you plan to settle. While you won’t be able to estimate your monthly expenses down to every detail, it’s helpful if you know the following costs:
Ready to take control of your financial journey in Canada? Join our expert-led online webinar! Learn essential banking tips to build a strong financial foundation. Hear from David Frattini, Managing Partner at Prepare for Canada, and Neil Dhanani, Financial Advisor at Scotiabank, as they guide you through everything you need to know.
REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARBring important documents such as professional licenses, education transcripts, and educational credential evaluation results. If enrolling young children in school, bring their birth certificates, school records, and immunization records.
Other documents include travel and temporary health insurance, medical records, driving license, and marriage certificate.
Check out the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) website for restricted and prohibited goods. You want to avoid paying fines or extra taxes or having to dispose of certain goods.
Make a list of everything you need to buy to set up a home, down to forks and spoons. The things we take for granted at home cost money, every single one of them. The list may be long, but you should always have a realistic idea of your needs. This way, you will avoid getting carried away when you shop for your new life in Canada.
The Canadian government requires immigrants to show they have the minimum settlement funds to support themselves and their dependents for six months after arrival. However, it’s better to have more than the minimum.
When you arrive, you need to manage your savings carefully. If you can take on extra work and reduce unnecessary spending. These vital steps financial steps before you leave for Canada will minimize financial stress.
Take advantage of cheaper services while still in your home country. For example, in Canada, like in most advanced countries, dental services are notoriously expensive, as are many other medical or cosmetic procedures. Repairs and restorations of items such as artwork or other valuable possessions will, most likely, be more expensive in Canada.
If you don’t have any friends or family willing to offer temporary accommodation, research the cost of short-term rentals well in advance, and make reservations. Pick a cost-effective and convenient location that will allow you to move around easily while you search for a permanent home.
Know in advance how you will handle your money. Will you carry cash? Will you rely on credit? Many hotels in Canada do not accept cash and require a credit card, and rental buildings require payment by debit card or cheque.
It can be stressful carrying around too much cash, but you can easily lose track of spending solely relying on plastic. So make a point of checking your balance.
Moving to a new country will require a solid financial plan. And when you take these financial steps before you leave for Canada you’ll be better able to manage your finances.
Searching for a job and having enough money to live on are likely the biggest pain points for newcomers when they arrive in Canada. And even with years of experience in your field, you may face challenges when interviewing, including dealing with job search rejection. However, it’s important to know how to stay positive, learn from your interview experience, and move forward with confidence.
Linda Ryan is the National Program Manager with BCCA-Integrating Newcomers, a government funded, Canada-wide, pre-arrival career coaching service for high skilled construction professionals immigrating to Canada (*BCCA-IN). A career and certified performance coach, she and the BCCA-IN team specialise in helping newcomers plan for, and achieve, employment success, no matter what city or province they are moving to.
When it comes to how to deal with job search rejection, Ryan provides four simple, proven steps to deal with the self-doubt that can follow. As a successful career coach for newcomers to Canada, Ryan has helped many along the path to success. Ryan states, “We’ve all been there and done that…the dreaded job search. A joyous journey to rejection, silence, and self-doubt. Until the time when your job application, contacts, or chance meeting shines bright like a diamond and you’re in.”
Once a newcomer herself, Ryan has had first-hand experience with the challenges and realities of a Canadian job search. She knows that job search rejection can create difficult feelings. So here are four steps that she followed and recommends to others to stay positive and achieve success.
“I encourage clients to shoot for the stars, dream big and give themselves the luxury of feeling successful.” Specifically, Ryan advises clients to ask these vital questions: “What does success look like, feel like and sound like?” You can read more about visualizing success in Newcomers Need Two Career Plans.
This step relates to your job search goals. Once you have established your lofty goals, it’s time to set realistic, measurable, and time-sensitive objectives. “Breaking lofty goals into teeny, weeny baby steps and actions towards those goals makes your job search less daunting.”
[cjtoolbox name=’BCCA Webinar LP’]
Crafting Your Job Search Action Plan to Work in Canada
Develop a Career Plan to Achieve Success in Canada!
Career Counselling Helps Newcomers Build Success
Newcomers Need Two Career Plans
Working in Canada | A Guide to Land Your Dream Job!
Ryan reminds clients to avoid taking job search rejection personally. She says, “We are infinite beings in finite bodies. And even if we were always told that we were special, when it comes to the job search, we are one of many.” And as a result, our efforts are constrained by factors we can’t control or even influence. Ryan states “there are many factors that determine who will get selected for an interview. For example, these factors include the:
As for the people who are reviewing the resumes, think about what may be influencing their decision-making. For example, Ryan says, “Are they having a good day or bad day? Are they energized or exhausted? Are they happy with their company or looking to jump ship themselves? There are many reasons why it may not go your way, so why give those things your attention and energy!” Stay positive and don’t let disappointment derail your job search efforts.
“Written by Don Miguel Ruiz (1997, Amber-Allen Publishing), the book reminds us of four things we all should have been taught when we were seven years old!” Ryan says.
First Agreement: Be Impeccable with Your Word
“When you are impeccable, you take responsibility for your actions, but you do not judge or blame yourself (or others!)”
Second Agreement: Don’t Take Anything Personally
“Whatever happens around you, don’t take it personally because the issue can be about the other person (or process), not you.”
Third Agreement: Don’t Make Assumptions
“We have the tendency to make assumptions about everything. The problem with making assumptions is that we believe they are the truth…We assume, we misunderstand, we take it personally, and we end up creating a whole big drama that works against us.”
Fourth Agreement: Always Do Your Best
“Under any circumstance, always do your best, no more and no less. But keep in mind that your best is never going to be the same from one moment to the next.”
*The BCCA-Integrating Newcomers program is a free, pre-arrival, Canada-wide service, focused on helping high-skilled newcomers explore and build successful construction careers. Services include one-on-one career guidance, tailored resume, cover letter, LinkedIn advice, and an in-depth skills and education assessment to help newcomers focus on the best career, credentials and connections activities. The Integrating Newcomers team not only has multi-industry experience but are also immigrants who have built successful careers in Canada.
Searching for a new job is tough for anyone. And for newcomers, the job search can be that much more challenging. The journey can be an emotional roller-coaster and the ‘free time’ on your hands can seem endless.
Linda Ryan is the Provincial Manager (Apprenticeship Services), BCCA. When it comes to job searching Ryan provides smart advice about how to survive the ‘free time’ trap when jobless. As Ryan states “free time isn’t all it’s cracked up to be when you’re between jobs or a newly landed immigrant.”
BCCA-Integrating Newcomers, is a government funded, Canada-wide, pre-arrival career coaching service for high skilled construction professionals immigrating to Canada (*BCCA-IN). A career and certified performance coach, she and the BCCA-IN team specialise in helping newcomers plan for, and achieve, employment success, no matter what city or province they are moving to.
Prepare for Canada (PFC) spoke to Ryan and here’s what she had to offer.
A job search can take time, especially when you’re waiting to hear back from potential employers. Recognizing that we all covet free time, it starts to feel like a cavernous canyon when you’re sitting at home twiddling your thumbs and watching your hard-earned money drain from your bank account. Ryan discusses three smart coping tips:
Ryan: I remind clients of three things they can do to manage the ‘free time’ trap. And, one of the first things I tell my clients is to Be Aware. Specifically, be aware that you’re in uncharted territory. Be aware that it’s stress-inducing. And, be aware of making the “I’ll accept any job” or “survival job” decision to manage your short-term job stress.
I encourage my clients to emulate Mel Gibson’s character William Wallace (13th-century warrior) in the movie Braveheart. He bellowed “HOLD” to his fellow warriors who were too eager to enter the battlefield willing to accept death over the unknown.
I remind clients that the temporary discomfort of the unknown will pass if they hold to their beliefs and their nerve!
[cjtoolbox name=’BCCA Webinar LP’]
Crafting Your Job Search Action Plan to Work in Canada
Career Counselling Helps Newcomers Build Success
Education Evaluation and Credential Recognition | What Newcomers Must Know
Newcomers Need Two Career Plans
Working in Canada | A Guide to Land Your Dream Job
Ryan: This second thing I remind clients to do is to Take Responsibility. Specifically, take responsibility for how you’re feeling and do small things to counter difficult emotions. Whether it’s using a “What if?” mantra to shift your perspective, or even a “WTF” mantra to laugh at your current situation.
For example, by using a “What if?” approach, you take control of self-defeating thoughts that can prevail with free time on your hands. Ask yourself, what if the worst that could happen takes place? Then answer:
Allow yourself to acknowledge what you’re feeling. This empowers you to decide to move or stay stuck. Whatever the decision, you will make it consciously, so there’s no place to hide!
Ryan: Move to Action is very important. If free time is your enemy, then create an ally by adding structure to your day. For example, create a fake Monday to Friday work week and devote an hour each day in the morning to:
Then assign the rest of your day to get out and to exercise and enjoy your surroundings.
Everything that makes you smile and relax “in the flow” is rocket fuel for your energy and your long-term decision-making muscles.
Linda Ryan
And finally, above all else, I remind clients to Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway! Life is too short to accept ‘average’, ‘ok’, or ‘fine’.
*The BCCA-Integrating Newcomers program is a free, pre-arrival, Canada-wide service, focused on helping high-skilled newcomers explore and build successful construction careers. Services include one-on-one career guidance, tailored resume, cover letter, LinkedIn advice, and an in-depth skills and education assessment to help newcomers focus on the best career, credentials and connections activities. The Integrating Newcomers team not only has multi-industry experience but are also immigrants who have built successful careers in Canada.
Moving to Canada with young children? Then you’ll want to read this overview of schooling in Canada to help your children adapt to school smoothly. Canada has one of the best school systems in the world to help your children grow and prosper. This is important for newcomers who often want to provide their children with more opportunities and access to education in Canada. Learn more about schooling in Canada including the systems, education levels, and process to register your children in school.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Nelson Mandela
The Best Countries for Education global survey shows that Canada ranks #4. The survey measured the following three country attributes:
#1 United States
#2 United Kingdom
#3 Germany
#4 Canada
#5 France.
As the report identifies “Today’s young people will, in the coming years, be governing the world. Their thoughts and actions will be shaped by what they know and experience, making education, in many ways, one of the best predictors of a nation’s future success.”
Each province and territory in Canada develops curriculum and policy. And, because of this, both may be slightly different across the country. Still, schooling in Canada has many common elements such as the school systems, levels of education, and enrollment process.
In Canada, there are three school systems:
2. Private schools
3. Homeschooling.
You can choose which school system your child will attend. To learn more about the provincial school systems follow the links in the Provincial and Territorial Ministries of Education section below.
The government funds public schools in Canada, and most children attend public schools. So you don’t have to pay for your child to attend public school. However, you pay for school supplies and extracurricular activities such as field trips.
District school boards manage how public schools operate and are responsible for activities such as hiring teachers and opening new schools.
Over 95% of Canadians choose public school education for their children.
CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC SCHOOLS – INTERNATIONAL
If you send your children to a private school, you pay tuition and other fees. The government usually does not fund private schools, so these schools can be costly to attend. However, private schools may provide a focus that public schools don’t provide and that you are willing to pay for. For example, private schools in Canada may focus on a specific area such as:
Homeschooling is acceptable in every province in Canada. If you want to teach your children at home, you will have to meet certain legal requirements. Each province has requirements, so you have to research laws to ensure you meet the regulations.
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REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARFour levels within the school system follow this structure:
Pre-school programs are like daycare programs for children aged two to four. You don’t have to send your children to preschool. However, preschool can help your child build language skills if they don’t speak English or French (Canada’s official languages). As well, preschool can help young children develop social and emotional skills to help them adjust to schooling in Canada. Most preschools in Canada are private, so you will have to pay a cost.
Each school has a catchment area, (an area that defines which school your child will attend). Usually, children attend a school closest to their home and within the school’s catchment area.
Most children attend kindergarten at age five. You can register your child at the school closest to your home. Children must attend kindergarten in most provinces. Kindergarten is free.
Children attend elementary school (also known as primary school) in September the year they turn five. But, if you arrive after September you must enroll your child as soon as you arrive. For example, if you arrive in Canada in October, you must register your child in October. You can contact the School Board (see links below for provincial ministries of education) when you arrive.
Children attend elementary school from grades one to eight. Some school districts may have a middle school for grades six to eight. But, that depends on the structure of the school district.
Generally, school curriculums cover these subjects:
After children complete elementary school, they attend high school from grades nine to twelve. The high school system prepares students to attend either:
The government does not fund post-secondary schooling in Canada. And, many parents save for years so their children can attend post-secondary education. Investing in a Registered Education Savings Plan is a common way for parents to save for higher education in Canada.
In high school, students can meet with Guidance Counsellors who can help them achieve better grades, handle personal or social issues, and make career choices.
Settlement agencies can help you to register your children in school. You’ll need these documents to register your child in a school in Canada:
You have to enroll your children in school as soon as you arrive in Canada. The school year starts in September and ends in June. But, if you arrive in Canada after the school year begins, your child can still attend school.
Canada guarantees an education to all children, including those with disabilities. Depending on the child’s needs, children with disabilities will attend either regular classrooms and receive additional help, or special classes or schools.
Newcomer students may have to complete a math and English language skills assessment. The assessment will identify:
The results will help teachers understand what your child already knows. And if you have questions about your child’s placement level, you can talk to their teacher about their results. It’s helpful if you can provide your child’s previous report card or other school information for the assessment.
Children who don’t have strong language skills that match the grade level can access programs to help them learn English. ESL classes are often regularly scheduled courses, or in place of English taught to those who already speak the language.
For more information, check out the Ministry of Education for the province where you plan to settle.
Alberta
Ministry of Education
British Columbia
Ministry of Education
Manitoba
Ministry of Education
New Brunswick
Department of Education and Early Childhood Development
Newfoundland and Labrador
Department of Education
Northwest Territories
Department of Education, Culture and Employment
Nova Scotia
Department of Education
Nunavut
Department of Education
Ontario
Ministry of Education
Prince Edward Island
Department of Education and Early Childhood Development
Quebec
Éducation, Loisir et Sport Québec
Saskatchewan
Ministry of Education
If you’re a newcomer thinking about buying a new car in Canada, the auto market offers a wide range of vehicles to meet different financial situations, lifestyles, and driving habits. If you’re in Canada from a country with a smaller auto market and fewer choices, this can be daunting as you begin your search. Buying a new car is often the second most expensive purchase after buying a home. So it’s worth it to do some research to determine what kind of vehicle will suit your needs.
But before you buy a new car, it’s a good idea to consider if you even need a new car. Most large cities like Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, and Edmonton have extensive public transit systems. Public transit allows you to move about cost-effectively and conveniently. Or you can even consider buying a used car. However, if you still want to buy a new car here are some important things to do and think about.
Talk to people who own the make and model of the car that you are interested in buying. That way you can get first-hand knowledge about their experience. Their insights about reliability, repair costs, and gas mileage can be helpful information that can save you money. Also, don’t be invested in brand loyalty too heavily as the quality gap between domestic and import brands has narrowed in recent years.
You can also research Canadian automotive websites that are full of reviews and road tests for all types of vehicles. Specific factors to research include:
Be sure to evaluate how the car you want to buy compares to the competition’s price.
Before buying a new car it’s worth knowing how you can get the best price for your new vehicle. Here it’s important to the difference between the suggested retail price (SRP) and the dealer invoice price.
The MRSP is also commonly known as the list price or “window sticker” price. This is the price point that new car dealers work from. In many cases, you can negotiate a lower cost. However, if the car is in high demand, it may sell for more.
This is the actual price the dealer pays the manufacturer for the vehicle. And there is usually some variance. The price margin is important as it tells the new car buyer how much profit the car dealer can make on the sale of the car and help you negotiate a lower price.
Car dealers commonly offer special promotions, factory/dealer rebates, and other incentives to increase car sales. Find out when manufacturers and dealers offer these programs before buying a car as you could make big savings.
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There are different Canadian automotive websites that show what manufacturers and dealers are offering incentives and for what models. Also, some good times to look for and buy a new car include:
Car dealers will offer other incentives to new car buyers such as no interest payments, low financing rates, attractive leasing rates, and cash rebates.
Before you buy a car, it’s important to take a test drive. The car dealership will allow you to take a half-hour test ride on urban and highway roads so you can get an idea of how the vehicle drives and feels. If a spouse will drive the car, ensure they come along for the ride to use the controls, explore the features and evaluate the vehicle. . You can also bring the family to test out the back seat room!
Another helpful way to take a test drive is to rent the make and model you’re considering buying. That way, you can drive the car for a longer period of time to experience the car and its benefits. Or, you may discover that the vehicle doesn’t meet your needs. Either way, a test drive is an important first step to take before buying a car.
When buying a car, you have two types of financial agreements to consider: buy or lease a vehicle.
Whether you choose to lease or buy a car, you’ll have a monthly, weekly, or bi-weekly car payment for a few years, unless you pay cash. Typically, most car-buyers put down a deposit on a car and get a loan from a bank to buy it. In which case, you’ll also have to pay interest on the loan.
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The other option is to lease a car. When you lease, you don’t own the car. You are essentially renting it for a specific period. At the end of the lease term, you will have the option to return the vehicle, trade it in for a newer model, or buy it out.
With a lease, instead of borrowing the full purchase price of the car, you are only borrowing the amount the car will depreciate over the term of the lease. For example with a three-year lease, and taking into account regular wear and tear (known as the “residual value”), then you only have to finance the difference between the purchase price and the residual value. This is the basic reason lease payments are lower than loan payments.
Both leasing or buying a car has pros and cons. When you buy a car, you own the car at the end of the payment period – you own the car fully and it has some residual value and equity. The cons are that payments are more expensive than leasing and once the vehicle is out of its warranty period you are responsible for maintenance and repair costs.
When you lease a car, you have lower car payments and better cash flow. And since car leases are generally between two and three years, the vehicle you buy is almost always going to be covered by warranties. Once the lease is up, you can either walk away or upgrade to a newer model. However, unless you negotiate to buy the car at the end of its lease you will never really own the vehicle and will not build equity.
Deciding to lease or buy a car in Canada can be a difficult decision. Basically, you have to decide what option makes sense given your financial situation, individual, or family lifestyle. Here are some things to know about leasing:
Carefully evaluating your driving habits and your car needs will help you to make the decision the lease or buy a car.
You have a few ways you can pay for your vehicle when you buy a car in Canada:
Cash: You pay the full amount upfront to the dealership or private seller.
Financing from the car dealer: Financing and payment options are readily available from auto dealers through their financing company. However, you may face challenges getting approval if you don’t have an established credit history.
Bank loans or line of credit: You can apply for financial aid through your bank or credit union. Most banks have programs in place to help newcomers get a car loan with little or no credit.
Do the math to figure out which option makes the most financial sense.
If the test drive goes well and you’re ready to buy a car, ensure you use all the information you researched to work out a fair price. The price should take into account any factory and dealer rebates, discounts, and incentives. It is a good idea to have this information in a report to use as a negotiating tool when dealing with a salesperson. This can be the most difficult stage of buying a car since car dealers want to get the suggested retail price. So, at a minimum, you should know what price the dealer paid the factory for the car and what rebates are available to them.
Your solid research can help you to negotiate the best price and save you hundreds or thousands of dollars on the new car price. The art of the deal is to allow the dealer to make some profit, but not all at your expense.
During the buying stage, the cost of the car can go much higher when the salesperson tries to sell dealer-installed extras such as:
In most cases, these are high-margin profit items for the dealer that reduce any cost-savings you negotiate. These are added profits that only come out of your wallet. And most of these extras aren’t necessary. If there are options that you want to purchase, it will drive up the price of your car. So, try to negotiate the price on the options as well. Or, you can also add options at a later date from other places outside of the dealership at a reduced price.
Remember as the buyer with money to spend you have the upper hand. Dealerships don’t want to lose a sale and will try their best to win and keep your future business. So keep these tips in mind when negotiating price:
There are certain steps you will need to take and documents you will need before you can drive off the lot with your new car. Don’t expect to arrive and buy a car on the first day you are in the country. It will take a little bit of time to get things in order first. If you have recently arrived in Canada, here’s some additional information to know and things you need before buying a car.
Depending on your country of origin, you may be able to exchange your driver’s licence for one in your new province. If you can’t transfer your licence, you may be able to get some driving experience credit. Bring your current driver’s licence to a local licencing office to start the process of getting a Canadian driver’s licence.
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You cannot get car insurance without first getting your Canadian driver’s licence. Once this is in place, you can compare car insurance quotes and find coverage for your vehicle. If you are buying a car from an auto dealership, they can help you get your insurance documents in order. Using an insurance broker is also a good option. Brokers can help you explore your insurance options and find affordable premiums.
To finalize the purchase of your vehicle, you will need to register your car with the provincial government where you reside. Check out this post for links to Provincial Ministries of Transportation. You will need your drivers’ licence, insurance, and bill of sale to complete this process. Again, if you are buying from a dealership, they will take care of the registration process for you.
These tips and information are important things to consider if you are thinking of buying a car in Canada. A new car is a large investment and these tips can help you to make a wise financial decision.
For more information about your financial first steps in Canada, visit our banking in Canada resource page. Get the essential information you need to manage your finances in Canada!
To achieve professional success it’s vital to develop a career plan. But, where do you start? If you don’t know where or how to start to develop your plan, then continue reading and get helpful tips.
Linda Ryan is the National Program Manager with BCCA-Integrating Newcomers, a government funded, Canada-wide, pre-arrival career coaching service for high skilled construction professionals immigrating to Canada (*BCCA-IN).
A career and certified performance coach, she and the BCCA-IN team specialize in helping newcomers plan for, and achieve, employment success, no matter what city or province they are moving to.
When it comes to developing a career plan, Linda Ryan shares the top five things you can do to achieve success! Prepare for Canada spoke to her to get her valuable insights about how to develop a career plan. Ironically, none of her tips even mention resume, job hunting, or LinkedIn. Those elements, Ryan stated, are all about attitude and approach. In contrast, the tips she offers provide the building blocks of any successful life transition. And, that includes helping newcomers develop a career plan to achieve success even before arriving in Canada.
We asked Linda Ryan for her advice on why it’s essential to develop a career plan and where to begin. She discussed five key tips that she has come to believe are the building blocks of any successful transition.
1: Get focused
2: Get real
3: Get knowledgeable
4: Get prepared
5: Get on with it.
Linda Ryan: My first tip is to get focused. “Adopting the ‘‘I’ll take any job’ mindset is one of the most unhelpful approaches to career transition, especially in a new country.” Accepting any job, or what’s also known as a survival job, serves to pay the bills while you search for a job that aligns with your:
However, accepting “any job” is not a sustainable career development strategy. And, taking any job will leave you feeling unfulfilled, unproductive, and unhappy.
A better approach is to focus on what you would love to do in one, five, or 15 years from now.
To help you get focused, you can look at your interests, aspirations, existing education, and experience.
Linda Ryan
The next step is to look at the:
It’s helpful to focus on up to three possible role types that you would like to pursue. This will help you decide what specific activities you must act upon to develop a plan and achieve career success.
Linda Ryan: It’s important to be realistic about the job prospects in Canada. So it’s a good idea to access high-level labour market information for the city, province and profession where you plan to settle. Job Bank is Canada’s national employment service that’s available as a website and mobile app.
It helps you develop a career plan and find work by providing an overview of your profession in Canada. This career planning tool is invaluable and provides information about:
Linda Ryan: It’s helpful to know if your profession is regulated or unregulated in Canada. When you confirm this, you’ll know what you require to work in Canada and what it actually means for your goals. With this knowledge, you can adjust your career-planning activities accordingly.
Linda Ryan: One vital activity is to understand the difference between education evaluation and credential evaluation. There are clear differences between each activity that can help you prepare for career success.
If you plan to arrive in Canada soon, you can start these activities before you arrive. Because doing so is smart and strategic! To learn more, check out this post.
Also, get comfortable with planning. In fact, you should have a Plan A and a Plan B (maybe even a Plan C) for your career. And expect to change these plans as your circumstances and experiences change.
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Linda Ryan: Only you are accountable for developing a career plan, no one else. However, it’s healthy to ask for help and seek guidance from experts. You can even access free newcomer services to help you achieve your career goals faster. It’s also helpful to build connections with peers in your local industry.
But, it’s up to you to take consistent and constructive action to build the career that you want. So, get into action, adjust your plans, and keep on doing.
*The BCCA-Integrating Newcomers program is a free, pre-arrival, Canada-wide service, focused on helping high-skilled newcomers explore and build successful construction careers. Services include one-on-one career guidance, tailored resume, cover letter, LinkedIn advice, and an in-depth skills and education assessment to help newcomers focus on the best career, credentials and connections activities. The Integrating Newcomers team not only has multi-industry experience but are also immigrants who have built successful careers in Canada.
There are many things you need to think about when moving to Canada. One often overlooked are the types of clothing you’ll need for Canada and the different seasons. Many new immigrants often gloss over the fact that Canada has a unique climate, unlike any other country. It can snow in the spring or you can be wearing shorts in December. Canadian weather can be truly unpredictable. If you are not prepared, you could find yourself with a suitcase full of clothing that has you ill-prepared for the weather outside. And while Canada may be known for its cold winter, when you know the type of clothing to wear, winter can be a very enjoyable season, filled with fun outdoor activities.
Canada is truly a nation of four seasons. So you’ll need to dress for different seasons. The weather can vary greatly based on where you live in the country. It can also change significantly from one day to the next. You can experience humidity and temperature close to 40 degrees Celsius in the summer and temperatures as low as -40-degrees Celsius with the wind chill in the winter.
So, you really need to have the right types of clothing to keep yourself comfortable throughout the year in Canada. But we have you covered with the list below.
Depending on your country of origin, you may have some of these clothing items already. All basic clothing items are standard no matter where you live. But pay particular attention to the winter clothing items. If you are without these, you’ll want to get them as soon as possible. Because no matter where you live in Canada, you are going to need good, comfortable, and warm clothing. If you’re spending time doing anything in the snow such as skiing, snowmobiling, skating or even just building a snowman, you’ll need something beyond your average city-appropriate outerwear.
All clothing on the list below is readily available for purchase in stores across the country. You can also find these items online or used at local thrift stores. Here is a list of clothing you will need for each season:
This is the start of patio season. Spring is a signal that winter is over, and the warmer weather is on the horizon. It can be an unpredictable season. The cold could linger, and you could find it to be unseasonably cool. Or it could be exceptionally warm. It’s a good idea to have some summer and fall items handy to be prepared for the unpredictable nature of this season:
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Canadian summers can be hot and humid. It can be just as warm as about anywhere else in the world. Expect a mix of sunshine and some rainy days. There will be lots of opportunities to enjoy parks, the lake and local beaches. It’s the time of the year when Canadians go on vacation, head to cottages, and enjoy the outdoors to the fullest. Here are some types of clothing items to have:
Once fall comes around, you’ll notice the leaves starting to change colour on the trees and the weather starting to cool. It is pumpkin spice latte season. It’s time to break out your sweaters and celebrate Thanksgiving. Here is the clothing you will need for fall:
We’re sure you’ve heard about Canadian winters. We are known for them. Fortunately, what most people don’t realize is that winter is only one season out for the year. But it is true, the frigid temperatures, snow and ice, and bone-chilling winds are very real. You’ll want to wear multiple layers, especially if you head outside to go tobogganing, skiing, or a good brisk walk. Here are some examples of the type of clothing you’ll need for a Canadian winter:
You can always get up-to-date information about the weather in Canada here.
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If you have most of these types of clothing for Canada, you’ll be comfortable year-round no matter what city you call home. As you can see from the above list, you will need a little bit of everything to ensure you are prepared for Canadian weather. It’s common for new immigrants to come to Canada without all the right types of clothing. But don’t worry, you will have no trouble getting the clothing you need once you arrive.
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!