Getting a credit card when you arrive in Canada is a great way to build a credit history, but you must avoid making common mistakes. From spending more than your credit limit, to only paying the minimum monthly payment, these mistakes can damage your credit score and make it difficult to achieve your financial goals. Learn how to avoid these financial mistakes and what you can do to stay in good standing.
1. Only making the minimum monthly payment on your credit card bill
Credit card issuers make it easy for you to repay your balance by allowing you to make minimum monthly payments. Sometimes you may only afford to make the minimum monthly payment, but avoid making this a habit. When you only pay the minimum payment each month it increases the amount of time it takes to pay off your balance and you’ll pay much more interest. It also means that you will likely never pay off the full amount of your card.
A better approach is to pay the full balance. If that’s not possible, pay more than the minimum monthly payment to accrue less credit card interest and pay your debt faster.
2. Missing credit card payments
Advertisement:
Missing payments means that you will have to pay a late payment fee. And late payment fees can add up quickly. To avoid late payment fees, you can set up an automatic payment to your debit card. Remember, you should pay off the full balance each month. Falling behind in your payments can lead to higher credit card interest charges and your credit score will suffer. Meeting your monthly payments shows creditors that you manage your money well.
Arrive in Canada Financially Prepared
Building a strong financial foundation is vital to your success. Join this webinar to start your banking journey in Canada on the right foot!
If you don’t open your credit card billing statement, you risk missing your payment due date or paying less than you should be. Ignoring your statement could cause you to miss important announcements about changes to your credit card terms. Review the monthly transactions to ensure that there are no purchases that you did not make or approve. If there are any errors, contact the credit card company immediately to discuss the transaction.
Missing payments will also cause your credit score to decrease. Missed payments can remain on your credit report for up to six years.
4. Not reporting a lost or stolen credit card
If you lose your card, the first thing that you should do is report it to your financial institution. The longer it takes you to report a lost or stolen card, the greater the chance of fraudulent activities. Reporting a lost credit card quickly shows the bank that you are responsible.
Advertisement:
5. Maxing out your credit card limit
This credit card mistake is important to avoid. As a newcomer, in your first few months, you will likely have some unexpected expenses you didn’t budget for. A credit card can be a short-term solution but you should never max out a card to its limit. When you max out your credit limit, it indicates to creditors that you are living beyond your means.
It’s better to spend less than 30% of your credit limit. This is known as the credit utilization ratio to assess how much credit you have versus how much you use. This ratio is also about 30% of your credit score calculation. Getting close to your credit limit puts you at risk for over-the-limit fees and penalty interest rates you’ll have to pay when you exceed your credit limit. Maintain a low balance on your card for a healthy credit score and manageable payment amount.
Avoiding these credit card mistakes will help you reduce financial stress, increase your credit score, and build credit history.
Related articles
Read more about your financial first steps in Canada.
Building Credit History in Canada as a Newcomer
A lesson many newcomers learn when they arrive in Canada is that you need credit to pay for large expenses, buy a car, or purchase a home. However, it’s difficult to borrow without a credit history in Canada.
Open a Bank Account Before Arriving in Canada
Opening a bank account before you arrive in Canada offers many benefits including transferring funds before you travel to Canada.
Inflation in Canada and What it Means for Newcomers
For newcomers and international students arriving in record numbers, it’s helpful to understand how the currect inflation rate in Canada can affect how much you pay for housing, groceries, transportation, and other expenses.
Insurance in Canada: What Newcomers Need to Know
Protecting yourself and your family against unexpected danger and risk is what insurance in Canada is all about for newcomers to Canada and international students.
Do Newcomers Need to File an Income Tax Return?
If you became a permanent resident and lived in Canada, even for a short period, filing your first income tax return with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) can provide financial benefits.
In the excitement of getting your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), it’s vital to consider the first things to do after landing in Canada. It’s now time for the next step along your immigration journey. Your Canadian journey begins when you complete all the paperwork, pack your belongings, and say your goodbyes. The first steps you take upon your arrival in Canada will set the course for a smooth settlement process. Discover the vital steps to building your life your life in Canada!
What to Expect When You Land in Canada
Knowing what to expect when you land will contribute to a smooth experience and reduce stress.
One of the first people you will meet at your arrival point in Canada will be a friendly Canada customs agent. This is when the customs agent will ask you about the goods you carry with you, goods to follow, and landing certificates such as your COPR. You’ll also meet other officials from Immigration Services. They will ask you to show your passport and visa papers.
Immigration agents will give you application forms to apply for documents such as your:
Permanent Resident (PR) Card
Social Insurance Number (SIN) card
Health care card
Driver’s license.
Advertisement:
Applying for these documents within the first couple of weeks after you land in Canada is important. You will need a SIN card to work in Canada, and a health care card to get provincial healthcare coverage.
When Will I Receive My Permanent Resident (PR) Card?
Your PR card is proof of your Canadian permanent resident status. You will need this card whenever you leave Canada and want to re-enter.
The time to process your PR application can vary and it can take up to two months to receive your PR card. You can check processing times here.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will mail you a wallet-sized plastic PR Card. If you change your mailing address before receiving your PR Card, notify IRCC of your change of address. You can also check the status of your application.
Important First Steps After Landing in Canada
Once you decide to immigrate, it’s time to look ahead confidently. You’ve done so much to prepare for Canada, so trust yourself, enjoy the journey, and take these steps when you land in Canada.
Advertisement:
1. Find Housing Accommodation
It’s important to secure short-term accommodation (a stay of less than 28 days) before you arrive in Canada. And, while you are residing in temporary housing, a vital first step is to find accommodation in Canada that will suit your long-term rental needs.
Ideally, you want to find a place that meets your needs and is relatively close to your employer. If you’re moving to a large city like Toronto, pay attention to how dispersed it is. Travel time within the Greater Toronto Area can take up to 90 minutes by car or public transit. So, factor in travel time when deciding where to live.
Rentals for Newcomers is a great place to search for the perfect rental in cities across Canada. While it’s good to research the housing market in Canada before you arrive, the best time to search for housing is after you arrive in Canada. This will allow you to visit properties, meet the landlord, and avoid rental scams.
Apply for your SIN within the first week after you arrive in Canada. Without this nine-digit number, you cannot get a job, apply for government programs and benefits, or access credit. In fact, without it, you are virtually a person without an identity in Canada. There is no cost for you to get your SIN.
3.Apply for your Healthcare Card Upon Landing in Canada
Within the first week of your arrival in Canada, apply for a healthcare card to receive free medical coverage in the province or territory where you plan to live. Some provinces, such as British Columbia, have a three-month waiting period before your healthcare coverage takes effect. It’s important to apply for provincial healthcare within your first week to minimize delays in coverage.
If you land in a province with a waiting period, you can buy private insurance to cover you and your family from unexpected healthcare costs. A waiting period applies for permanent residents in British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Yukon, Northwest Territories, Quebec, and Saskatchewan.
Only in some provinces, such as Ontario, will your healthcare coverage begin as soon as you arrive.
4. Connect with Settlement Agencies Before and After Landing in Canada
There are many immigrant service agencies across Canada to help newcomers settle. Settlement agencies provide information and many free services to help you adjust to life in Canada. Some settlement agencies even offer pre-arrival services before you land in Canada. There is a huge advantage to using settlement services before and after your arrival in Canada.
Learn About FreePre-Arrival Services
If you’re still in your home country, learn more about free pre-arrival services:
Already in Canada?Discover FreePost-Arrival Services
These are a few examples of the types of services that you can take advantage of:
Free Language Training:
Improving or enhancing your English or French language skills is a great idea because it’s critical to newcomer success. Language training may focus on basic English skills only, and may not be enough to help you succeed in the work environment. However, many colleges and industry associations offer higher-level English training to help you with:
Business English courses
Job-specific or occupation-specific language training to help you with jargon and other work-related phrases.
Host Programs:
Some organizations may offer a host program. This volunteer-based program matches immigrants with a host who can guide them through their first few months in Canada. Your “host” can help you with questions you may have such as:
Where to shop locally?
How to find housing?
How to enroll children in school?
Settlement Counselling:
Immigrating to a new country can be an emotional time. You may feel frustration, regret, and homesickness. Immigrant settlement agencies are there to support you with counselling for you and your family.
Job Search Services Before and After Landing in Canada:
Immigrant settlement agencies are also a great first step to help you with your job search. For example, they can help you to:
And, many settlement agencies offer programs to assist your job search before and after you land in Canada.
For information, tools, free webinars, and more visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals in Canada!
Mentorship Programs:
You can also ask the settlement agency if they offer a mentorship program. Mentoring programs connect you with someone who works in your occupation and can provide information and tips about the profession in Canada. Mentoring can be a great way to help you succeed in the workplace.
5. Set up a Bank Account
Another priority in your first few weeks in Canada is to open a bank account near your home. To open an account, you will need your landed immigrant papers and any other identification you have to prove your place of residence. You can even open a bank account before you arrive in Canada.
Banks provide different types of bank accounts including basic savings and chequing accounts. You may need a chequing account in particular because most employers will make a direct deposit to your bank account to pay you.
Over time, you will build a good relationship with your bank, and start building your credit history. One way to build credit is to apply for a secured credit card and then a traditional credit card. With a secured credit card, you provide a cash deposit in case to pay your bills. Paying your bills and loans promptly is important to build a strong Canadian credit history. Your credit history will help you when you want to get a mortgage buy a home, make a major purchase such as a car, or get a loan to start a business.
6. Enroll Your Children in School When You Land in Canada
Among the main reasons people immigrate to Canada is to give their children a better future. That starts with education. Canada guarantees an education to every child between the ages of five and 18. You must enroll your child in school as soon as possible after you arrive in Canada.
The progressive levels in the Canadian education system for children include:
Kindergarten: Children enter the school system in Kindergarten at age five.
Primary or Elementary School: After they complete Kindergarten, they attend primary or elementary school for grades 1 to 7 or 8, depending on the school district.
Secondary or High School: From grade 8 or 9 through to 12, children attend secondary school (high school). Some districts have a junior high level between elementary and high school.
Watch Linda Ryan discuss how *BCCA-Integrating Newcomers can help you access jobs faster!
Once you arrive in Canada, you have a decision to make: should I get a “survival job” to earn money or look for a job in my profession. A survival job is not the best first job you can get. But, since they are easy to obtain, survival jobs can be a helpful way to earn money to pay the bills. However, once you get a survival job, do not give up on your job search. The choice you make will greatly affect how you live in Canada for the next few years. This article will help you decide which path you should choose when you arrive in Canada.
We spoke to Linda Ryan, Provincial Manager (Apprenticeship Services) with BCCA. When it comes to survival jobs, Linda Ryan shares her advice:
“My advice is to fasten your proverbial seat belt, hunker down and budget to be out of work for up to six months. Then before you opt for that survival job (a job that pays the bills but doesn’t relate to your career dreams and/or existing education, qualifications and industry experience) take a deep breath and consider all your options and the associated positive and negative consequences of each. Only when you have given yourself the gift of considering all impacts of a decision, should you take action.
Linda Ryan, Provincial Manager (Apprenticeship Services), BCCA
What is a Survival Job?
A survival job can pay the bills. But, it doesn’t relate to your career dreams or professional background. Often, it’s a low-paying job that requires little to no skills. These jobs are easy to obtain and earn you just enough to pay the bills. Generally, survival jobs earn you under $20 per hour.
Survival jobs usually have long and tiring shifts with only one or two days off every week. These jobs also offer very few benefits from the employer such as medical or dental benefits. Although, it’s good to ask the employer if they do provide any benefits.
Advertisement:
Some examples of survival jobs include:
warehouse or factory worker
cashier
sales associate
delivery person, and
restaurant worker, to name a few.
Since a survival job requires little skill, it doesn’t have to be related to your profession. What skills you might need for your survival job, the employer will provide training.
Consider how a survival job can minimize the time you have to search for a career-related job.
Disadvantages of Earning Money with Survival Jobs
Getting a survival job is not always the best option after you arrive in Canada. Survival jobs can leave you with little time and energy to continue your job search. At the same time, survival jobs often give you a feeling of self-satisfaction or ease. This is because they don’t require you to do a lot of thinking and the tasks you have to do are generally easy.
When both of these factors are combined, newcomers often give up on their job search after a few years of doing survival jobs. The longer you keep a survival job, the harder it will become for you to find a job in your profession.
Another big disadvantage of doing survival jobs in the long term is experience. At first, it might sound illogical, but doing a survival job for a long time can hurt your Canadian experience.
Advertisement:
Earning money with a survival job for a short period is good for building Canadian experience. However, when you do such a job for a long time, employers might be hesitant to hire you as you have been doing only a survival job for the past few years. Any experience you might have had in your profession will count as older work experience and may not be taken into consideration.
“As a skilled newcomer to Canada often the biggest shock to your career trajectory is realizing that it takes time to secure work in your field of expertise.”
Linda Ryan, Provincial Manager (Apprenticeship Services), BCCA
How Much Income Will You Earn?
Then, of course, there is the matter of income. Survival jobs earn you an annual income of around $30,000 to $50,000. Depending on where you live in Canada, this income probably won’t be enough to save up for a down payment and buy a house.
In cities like Toronto or Vancouver, this salary will barely even pay the rent. Overall, a survival job allows you to earn income to help you get by until you find a job in your field. It is not meant as a permanent job and you should never think of it as your permanent job.
Many survival jobs are found in the service sector such as restaurants or tourist attractions. As Ryan explained, based on the experience of her clients: “survival jobs pay lower and create a negative cycle of ‘no time and no energy’. This is because you have to work longer hours to earn enough money, or you can’t take time off to attend interviews for your dream job. As a result, you have little energy to go home after a shift and invest in your career, pastimes, or family. This negative cycle leaves newcomers asking what did I come to Canada for?”
Another client of Ryan’s stated: “survival jobs can be more of a hindrance than a help for your career because they cannibalize the energy you have for networking, job hunting, professional development and interviewing.”
Since they are easier to obtain than regular jobs, survival jobs are usually the first job newcomers get in Canada. Canada is an expensive country that is hard to live in for a long time without earning stable money. A survival job will earn you just enough money to get by and maybe acquire some savings if you spend carefully.
Looking at the disadvantages of survival jobs, it is obvious that they may hurt your chances of getting a job in your profession. However, survival jobs are important in some situations.
When you arrive in Canada it’s wise to have up to six months of savings while you conduct your job search. If you don’t have enough savings to last you a few months, it will be hard to continue your job search without earning additional money. In this scenario, it’s helpful to get a survival job as soon as you arrive in Canada to earn money.
If you have enough savings to last you a few months, you should look for a job in your profession without any distractions. If you still cannot find a preferred job after that time, and your savings are running out, it’s time to find a survival job. As the name suggests, survival jobs are there just so you can pay the bills, nothing more.
Should You Get a Survival Job to Earn Money?
The answer to that question varies depending on your situation. Not everyone is in the same financial situation when they arrive in Canada. Whether or not you should get a survival job depends on how much savings you have, and the job outlook for your profession.
If possible, try to find a job that is related to your field. This way, when you apply for a job in your profession, you will already have some Canadian experience.
If you do have some savings, plan how long you can live on your savings. In that time, do everything in your ability to search for your preferred job. This can include:
networking (letting people know you are looking for a job)
visiting online job boards, and
contacting employment agencies.
At the end of this time, if you still can’t find a good job, it’s time for a survival job to earn money.
It’s vital to research how your profession works in Canada before you arrive. Many newcomers come to Canada thinking they will find a job in their profession easily. This isn’t always the case. Getting a job in Canada is easy if you conduct your job search the right way. This is why it is really important to research your profession before you arrive and start networking with people in your profession.
What Kind of Survival Jobs Should I Look For?
Most people will probably look for the highest-paying survival job they can find. This may not be the best approach. It is always best to find a survival job that is related to your profession in some way.
If you have a specific organization or company you want to work for, try to get a job there. For example, if you’re a teacher, you could try to get a job as a lunch supervisor or an assistant teacher. That way, when you apply for a teaching job, you will already have some Canadian experience that can help you land the job.
If you cannot find a job that is directly related to your profession, you can try to look for survival jobs that share some of the same skills with your profession. A good example would be teachers who could tutor part-time or even full-time to show future employers you can teach to Canadian standards.
When you search for survival jobs with this approach, your chances of landing a good job will be greater.
How Can I Find a Survival Job in Canada?
Finding a survival job in Canada is fairly easy if you know where to look. Below are some resources and techniques you can use to find a survival job in Canada.
Networking
Networking is the number one way of getting any kind of job in Canada. Simply put, networking is building relationships that will help you with your career. Effective networking happens by building two-way relationships. You have to show your value and prove that you have the required skills and experience to do the job. Your network can include your friends and relatives as well as people you meet during your job search.
Just showing your resumé to the HR department of the organization will not be enough. Words are much more effective and convincing than any cover letter or resumé. When you talk to someone who can help you get a job, tell them about your capabilities and skills. When that person hears about a job opening, make sure they remember you. If you left a good impression on them, they might even recommend you for the job.
Employment Agencies
Another great way to find jobs is through employment agencies. These agencies are hired by companies to find capable and experienced workers. It would be a good idea to look up some of the best employment agencies in your area and approach them. According to the Association of Canadian Search, Employment & Staffing Services, over two million workers are hired through employment agencies every year!
Online Job Boards
Online job boards are the most common way to find jobs. Websites such as Indeed and LinkedIn are great online job boards to find jobs. LinkedIn can also be used for networking. Employers use online job boards to advertise available jobs. If you see a job that interests you, you can apply directly to the employer through the job board.
In summary, a survival job is not the best first job you can get. But, since they are easy to obtain, survival jobs can be a helpful way of earning money to pay the bills. Once you get a survival job, however, do not give up on your job search. Ryan offers this final advice:
“As a newcomer looking for your first role in Canada, remember that the sooner you make it look like you have ‘Canadian experience’ (i.e. through career-relevant credentials, memberships of local professional associations, building your network, taking more junior roles that will lead to your dream job), the sooner you’ll be considered equal to Canadian educated and experienced job candidates. This will allow you to get your foot in the career door faster! And once you’re in, your career is already building momentum to be back on track!
Learn More about BCCA-IN
*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 is a big decision. And choosing the right city to settle in is another crucial decision. The city you select will affect your career, earning potential, living expenses, and quality of life. And, it can greatly determine your future success in Canada. Kitchener-Waterloo region is one of many cities to consider living in Ontario.
Choosing the right city to call home is a decision you cannot take lightly. Researching your destination city in Canada is vital. Importantly, you need to understand the local job market and the housing market because these two factors will impact your financial success. For example, you need to understand if your skills match the local labour market to secure a job. And, you need to understand how affordable the local housing market is. Housing costs in Canada vary. For example, for the same cost of renting a small apartment in Toronto or Vancouver, you could rent a large house in a smaller city.
Prepare for Canada can guide you with helpful information about living and working in the Kitchener-Waterloo region.
About Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario
The Kitchener-Waterloo region is an active, thriving place to live, work, study and invest. Immigrants come from all over the world to make the region their home in Canada. It has a thriving technology sector, is along a major highway and is the 4th largest Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) in Ontario. Commonly referred to as KW or the Tri-cities, the CMA includes the three urban centres of Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge plus, four scenic rural townships: North Dumfries, Wellesley, Wilmot, and Woolwich.
Advertisement:
KW is a popular and affordable alternative to living in Toronto and offers a mix of big-city benefits and small-town charm. From KW, you can drive to the nearby cities of Toronto, London, Brampton, and Hamilton in about one hour. The area is close to nearby airports including the Region of Waterloo International Airport, London International Airport, and Toronto Pearson International Airport.
KW is an hour’s drive to cities such as Toronto, Hamilton, and London, Ontario.
How Many People Live in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario?
Over 623,000 people live in Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge (as of 2020). More than half live in Kitchener. The population has been steadily increasing by about 1.5% – 2% per year. However, over the past few years, it has been one of the fastest-growing regions in Ontario. It is expected to reach 729,000 people by 2031.
The Waterloo Region is also known as “Canada’s Silicon Valley”. Google Canada Head Office in KW
How to Find a Job & Build a Career in Kitchener-Waterloo
KW’s Local Economy
The KW region has a diverse economy that covers a range of sectors from manufacturing to high-tech industries. The area historically also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Ontario.
The city of Waterloo has significant insurance and high-tech sectors. Kitchener is known for its manufacturing industry.
The region is home to world-class employment and the employment rate is one of the highest in Ontario. With a strong manufacturing base and other industries to provide meaningful employment, it is also a fast-growing hub for:
Advertisement:
Technology and Innovation
Insurance
Advanced Manufacturing
Automotive
Aerospace
Digital
Food Processing.
Major Employers in KW
The KW region has many large employers such as Sun Life Financial, the University of Waterloo, Manulife Financial, Sandvine, and Wilfrid Laurier University.
The city is also home to three well-known think tanks: the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, the Institute for Quantum Computing, and the Centre for International Governance Innovation. Together with Kitchener and Cambridge, Waterloo is part of Canada’s Technology Triangle (CTT), a joint economic development initiative that markets the region internationally.
The job growth rate is on the rise. Total employment is close to 290,000 (2017). The region has the 10th largest workforce and the 4th largest manufacturing workforce in Canada. The top industries that are hiring are technology, manufacturing, insurance, and health care. Browse jobs in Kitchener-Waterloo here.
You can search for jobs through local recruiters such as Randstad Canada, RobertHalf, Biznets Professional Recruitment, Adecco Staffing, and MaxSys.
A key priority when moving to KW includes finding the perfect place to call home. And, it’s common for new immigrants to rent or live in a short-term rental before buying a house in KW.
Is Housing Expensive in Waterloo, Ontario?
Waterloo has a range of housing types with various sizes, characteristics, and prices. Relatively, you’ll find that housing prices are affordable, lower than in Toronto and the surrounding area, but higher than in some other southern Ontario communities located away from Toronto.
Finding a Place to Rent in Kitchener-Waterloo
It’s best to research the rental housing market before you arrive so that you have an understanding of costs. You can use online rental sites such as Rentals for Newcomers to search for available rental units in the KW area. Here, you can also find current rental prices. This is helpful since prices can change often. However, it’s best to conduct your search for rental housing when you arrive in Canada so you can physically view the apartment and meet with the landlord. This is also the best way to avoid rental scams.
CITY
AVERAGE RENT 1-BEDROOM APARTMENT
AVERAGE RENT 2-BEDROOM APARTMENT
Kitchener
$1,867
$2,324
Waterloo
$1,629
$2,450
Cambridge
$1,906
$2,333
Average Rental Costs as of January 2024
When renting a home or apartment, it’s also important to consider . This will protect your family, belongings, and finances from unforeseen events and liability. While renters’ insurance is optional, many landlords require it as part of your lease agreement. Get more information about renting a home: Renting in Canada: What Newcomers Need to Know
Buying a Home in Kitchener-Waterloo
In comparison to Canada’s largest cities, Vancouver and Toronto, the KW region offers more affordable housing.
Housing Prices as of October 2023: Source: Royal LePage
To buy a home, contact a realtor in the area, who will guide you through the home-buying process. Find out more about buying your first home in Canada: First Time Home Buyer: Newcomer Tips
Grand River Transit operates light rail train and bus routes in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and surrounding areas
Driving & Public Transit in Kitchener-Waterloo
Driving in Kitchener-Waterloo
Kitchener-Waterloo is conveniently located close to Highway 401, providing quick access to other major cities in the region. Highways 7 and 8 also pass through the area. It is common for residents to commute in and out of the city for work.
Drivers must have a valid Ontario driver’s licence. You must be at least 16 to drive and pass the graduated licensing system to get a full G licence. You require a Class A or D licence to operate commercial vehicles.
The Grand River Transit system operates a bus and light rail system within the KW region. For maps, routes, and schedules, click here.
The cost to ride public transit varies depending on the route, method, and distance. Click here for fares and routes. And with GO Bus and Train services, you can live in the region and still have quick and convenient access to Toronto.
The GO train from KW to Toronto is a frequent rapid transit experience for commuters.
Community Support for Newcomers
The KW area is diverse and welcomes immigrants from around the globe. You can find settlement agencies across the region to help you adapt to your new community and access other services. Refugees and new immigrants can use services such as:
If you want to have your English language skills assessed or get language support, you can access many local programs. For example, Conestoga College, St. Louis Adult Learning Centres, English at First, and Renison University College all offer Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) classes. Work-specific programs are also available.
Personal Finance & Banking
All local banks in Waterloo have programs to help newcomers open a bank account and get a credit card. You can learn about getting a mortgage, personal loans, and investments. Visit a local bank branch to start the process.
There are many learning opportunities for your children in the Kitchener Waterloo Region. There are separate boards for catholic and public education.
Elementary and High School Education
Throughout the Waterloo region, there are 121 schools – 103 elementary schools and 16 high schools. There are 46 Catholic elementary schools and five Catholic high schools. In addition, Kitchener-Waterloo has several private, adult, and continuing education institutions.
Post Secondary Institutions
The region is home to two universities and one technical college:
For prescription drugs and some services that the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) does not cover, you can pay for private . Some employers offer third-party health insurance as part of their benefits package. Otherwise, you can take out an individual policy. For more information about health care in the Kitchener-Waterloo region, click here.
The KW region, like many other areas in Ontario, has a shortage of doctors, so finding one can be difficult. Start looking for a physician who is taking new patients as soon as you arrive in the region. Register with Health Care Connect to find a doctor. Learn more about health care in Canada: Steps to Access Free Health Care in Canada
Grand River flowing through the KW Region in Cambridge
What is Day to Day Life Like in Kitchener-Waterloo?
Things to Do in Waterloo
Waterloo is a great place to work, go to school, and raise a family. There are many things for new immigrants to do for fun and leisure. The region has historic landmarks, a broad selection of excellent restaurants, thriving farmers’ markets, art galleries, museums, antique shops, and factory outlets.
Public Spaces & Attractions
The top attraction in the region is Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest. Each year people since 1969, people love to celebrate the second-largest Oktoberfest in the world. It is also home to many other events such as the Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Festival, Kitchener Blues Fest, and Kultrun World Music Festival.
Restaurants & Nightlife
The KW area is filled with diverse restaurants, pubs, and bars. There are many locations featuring European and German cuisine. The downtown areas in Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge are great places to get a bite to eat.
Nature & Natural Landscapes
Waterloo Region has many parks and trails along the Grand River for residents and visitors to explore. Larger parks, like Waterloo Park and RIM Park, have ball diamonds, sports fields, picnic areas, public washrooms and access to transit and parking.
Sporting Events & Concerts
The region is home to the Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League and the KW Titans of the National Basketball League of Canada. The entertainment scene offers a wealth of live theatre, concerts by local and visiting artists, and performances by the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony.
Culture & Diversity in Kitchener-Waterloo
Diversity
According to the 2021 Statistics Canada census, 146,575 immigrants live in the Waterloo Region. The region has the 8th highest proportion of immigrants in the province. Between 3,000 and 4,000 new immigrants move to the area annually.
In the last decade, the greatest number of immigrants were Asian, of which 18,265 were from India. European-born immigrants made up 47,630 with the highest number of immigrants coming from the United Kingdom with 10,130 people.
Since the Waterloo Region has German settlement roots dating back to 1916, there is also a large German community. And, there are more than 50,000 people in the region with German ethnic origins.
Places of Worship
Waterloo Region is home to many places of worship, providing faith communities across the city with reflective spaces. For a list of churches and other places of worship in the Waterloo Region, click here.
The Weather in the KW Region
The region has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons and large temperature differences. It has warm summer months and moderate winters.
Winter usually lasts from mid-December to mid-April and this is when you can expect snowfall. The average high in January is -3.1°C and in July rises to 25.9°C.
Downtown Kitchener has many beautiful heritage buildings making it a unique place to call home
Common Questions Immigrants Ask About Living in KW
Is it Expensive to Live in Kitchener-Waterloo?
Housing in the KW area is less expensive compared to other cities in Ontario. A major benefit is the average salary is comparable to what you get in big cities, so the overall cost of living is lower. There is ample opportunity to find affordable housing in KW and surrounding communities.
What are the Pros and Cons of Moving to Kitchener-Waterloo?
Kitchener-Waterloo offers new immigrants many benefits. It is a safe community that is affordable and offers many great festivals and cultural events. It’s also close to other cities. You can also live in surrounding communities, with many housing options. One drawback people often express is it is a student city because of the two universities. Traffic can also be heavy during rush hour.
Living in Kitchener-Waterloo vs. Toronto – What’s the Difference?
Many people compare cities in Ontario to Toronto when thinking about where to move. The KW region offers many of the same career opportunities as Toronto, especially in technology, but the cost of living is about 20% cheaper. You are only a one-hour drive from Toronto, so you can still enjoy the big city amenities without the higher cost.
For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle successfully!
Overlooking London, Ontario, known as “The Forest City”
If you are moving to Canada, choosing the right city to settle in is a major decision. The City of London, Ontario is one of many Canadian cities to consider. However, it’s important to research the local job market, housing options, and the community before you arrive. The city you choose to settle in can determine your economic success in Canada. Specifically, you want to ensure that there are good job opportunities so you can continue your career. And you want to ensure that housing and the cost of living are affordable to ensure your financial success. The City of London is located in southwestern Ontario and has much to offer newcomers. Discover more about living in London, Continue reading to learn more about living in London.
Let Prepare for Canada help you with your research!
About London, Ontario
Located midway between Windsor and Toronto, London is in the heart of southwestern Ontario. As the sixth-largest city in Ontario and the 10th largest city in Canada, it serves as a regional hub for surrounding communities.
For newcomers, the city offers affordable housing, low crime rates, excellent education and healthcare facilities, culture, and beautiful parks. It’s also known as the “Forest City” because of its natural beauty, trees, and green space. Whether you are looking for the urban lifestyle of a big city or the appeal and security of a mid-size community, the City of London is a great place to live, raise a family, and enjoy life.
Advertisement:
Don’t get the city confused with London, England. But it is arguably the second-best-known London in the world. The two share a lot of similarities. London, Ontario was settled in 1793 by Lord Simcoe on behalf of the Commonwealth. It was originally supposed to be the future capital city of Upper Canada. It officially became a city in 1855.
How Many People Live in London, Ontario?
London is one of the top 10 fastest-growing cities in Ontario. The city has over 400,000 residents, with more than 550,000 residents in the census metropolitan area. It has become a big city, but it still has a small-town feel.
Office towers in downtown London
How to Find a Job & Build a Career in London
London’s Local Economy
London is a hub of higher education, medical research, technology, and manufacturing. Its location within southwestern Ontario makes it a key supply chain and transportation hub for the province.
The strength of the manufacturing sector, rich agricultural lands, and the proximity to the United States border make it an important economic region. London attracts foreign direct investments in advanced manufacturing, food processing, information technology, and other knowledge-based industries. An Amazon fulfillment warehouse is currently being constructed.
The top industries in London are:
Advertisement:
Manufacturing
Agri-food
Digital media and technology
Healthcare
Education
Professional service.
Major Employers in London
This city is home to several major employers, including:
London Health Sciences Centre
St. Joseph’s Health Care
Western University
Fanshawe College
General Dynamics Land Systems
Canada Life
TD Canada Trust
3M Canada
Goodlife Fitness
Nestle Canada Inc.
Labatt Brewing Company.
Career Pathways in London
London has an extensive education and healthcare industry. It has a large financial services presence, and an emerging digital media and technology industry. Browse jobs in London here.
You can search for available opportunities by working with a local recruiter including Aerotek, PHM Search, AllStaff Inc., and Ladder HR Solutions. Knighthunter.com is a popular local career website to search for jobs.
Downtown condos close to the Thames River
The London Housing Market
London offers newcomers a diverse, welcoming, and safe place to call home. The housing market is experiencing significant growth. The city was traditionally undervalued and had much lower housing prices. However, prices have risen in recent years.
Is Housing Expensive in London, Ontario?
Even though housing prices have increased by over 35% in the past two years alone, it is still more affordable than in other cities. London was recently ranked as the second most affordable large city in the province. With lower housing costs, you’re able to afford more.
The price increase is driven by the rapid population growth and fewer homes for sale. However, you can search for more affordable housing in surrounding communities such as Strathroy and St. Thomas.
Finding a Place to Rent in London
There is a diverse rental market. It is also one of the cheapest places to rent in the province. Part of this has to do with a large number of rentals and a higher vacancy rate. The average rent for an apartment in London is $1040 for a Bachelor, $1248 for a one-bedroom, $1351 for a two-bedroom, and $1959 for a three-bedroom apartment.
Use Rentals for Newcomers to search for available rental units in London. Here, you can also find current rental prices in London.
If you plan to rent, consider . You can find policies for as low as $20-$30 per month to protect your personal belongings. Most property owners today will require you to have a policy as part of your lease agreement. Get more information about renting a home: Renting in Canada: What Newcomers Need to Know.
If you’re searching for the best neighbourhoods for renting in London, Lambeth ranks as the top hidden gem. Carling Heights, White Oaks and Southcrest rank as the top three neighbourhoods for affordability and a good supply of housing.
Buying a Home in London
The cost to buy a home in this city is increasing rapidly. According to Royal Lepage, in 2021 housing prices have increased 34.6% year-over-year.
The median price for a single-family detached home is $710,700. This is a 30% increase from the previous year. The average price for a condominium is $410, 600. This is an increase of 46%. Even with the steep increases, it still has lower housing costs than the national average – $779,000.
In London, driving is straightforward. There are no major highways that run through the city. You will need to drive through the city to get to your destination. Highways 401 and 402 run along the south end of the city and connect London to Toronto, and to the U.S. border crossings at Windsor and Sarnia. It’s about a one-hour drive to the Sarnia-Port Huron US border. Drivers must have a valid Ontario drivers’ licence.
Within the city, the London Transit Commission (LTC) offers accessible bus services. LTC accommodates people with disabilities including paratransit services for those with special needs. Licensed taxi companies and Uber are also readily available. The city is currently planning a rapid transit system.
Walking and cycling are easy given the city’s layout. There are extensive bike routes within the city including on-street routes, off-street routes, and multi-use pathways.
Go Transit offers daily transportation to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The London International Airport offers domestic and international flights.
Community Support for Newcomers
This city continues to become more ethnically diverse and has dozens of ethnocultural groups and organizations to support newcomers.
There are a variety of settlement agencies in the community. They include London-Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership, The London Cross Cultural Learner Centre, LUSO Community Services, Northwest London Resource Centre, South London, Neighbourhood Resource Centre, College Boreal, and YMCA of Southwestern Ontario. For more information, please visit London’s immigration portal, a one-stop-shop for newcomers to London and surrounding Middlesex County.
Language Support in London
Several organizations offer language support in the city. They include London Language Institute, Canadian ESL Centre, College Boreal, YMCA, St Patrick Adult and Continuing Education, and The London Cross Cultural Learner Centre.
Personal Finance & Banking
All local banks and financial institutions in this city have programs to help newcomers open a bank account and get a credit card. You can also start the mortgage qualification process. Visit a local bank branch to start the process.
London, Ontario offers high-quality schools to meet your needs and the needs of your family. From primary, secondary, and post-secondary education, you can find schools that provide a superior experience. This is important especially if you are moving to Canada with young school-aged children.
Elementary and High School Education
If you have young children, selecting a school that is close to your home will be important. And, you must select a school that is within the school district where you reside. The city has two English-language school boards and two French-language school boards:
Western University is ranked among the top 1% of higher education institutions in the world.
Post Secondary Institutions
London is home to two post-secondary schools – Western University and Fanshawe College:
Western University is ranked among the top 1% of higher education institutions in the world. It offers 88 different degree programs and graduate and postdoctoral programs in Medicine, Business, Law, Dentistry, Engineering, and healthcare. The school has over 40,000 students including more than 5,800 international students from around the world.
The university also includes the Richard Ivey School of Business, King’s College, Huron College, and Brescia College.
Fanshawe is one of Ontario’s largest colleges and offers more than 200 degrees, diploma, certificate, and apprenticeship programs to over 43,000 students. It provides programs in multiple disciplines including Applied Arts, Business, Health Care, Human Services, Hospitality, and Technology.
Other community colleges include Westervelt College, St. Peters Seminary, Medix, Ontario Institute of Auto Recording Technology, and triOS College
One of Canada’s largest acute-care teaching institutions is the London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC). LHSC includes University Hospital, Victoria Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Children’s Hospital. It also encompasses several medical centers and research institutes.
More than 20 medical walk-in clinics supply health care on a drop-in basis. There are also three hospital emergency rooms and one urgent care centre in London. For locations, please click here. You can also visit the Middlesex-London Health Unit for health-related information and help.
In case of an emergency call 9-1-1. This number is the same no matter where you live in Canada.
The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) provides coverage for many but not all medical care and prescriptions.
Your health is important and you’ll need to search for a doctor who is taking new patients. You can go to Health Care Connect, to search for doctors. Because you may be placed on a waiting list, you should begin your search soon after you arrive in London.
Port Stanley Beach, London Lightning, London Rib Fest, London Art Gallery
What is Day-to-Day Life Like in London?
Things to Do in London
London has a lot to offer. Whether you are into sports, nature, music, or cultural events, there is something for the entire family to enjoy, for example, Victoria Park in the downtown core hosts a variety of cultural festivals. You can check out the farmers market at the Western Fairgrounds. You’ll find families walking along the river or having a picnic in Springbank Park or enjoying the water slides and go-carts at Eastpark. In the winter, you can enjoy the public skating rink and holiday lighting display. There is something for everyone.
Public Spaces & Attractions
London has a vibrant culture enhanced by its museums, theatres, special events, and libraries. It is known for the annual Western Fair and it hosts over 120 special events each year including festivals such as Sunfest, Ribfest, and Home County Music & Art Festival.
Restaurants & Nightlife
London has diverse restaurants throughout the city. For nightlife, you can head downtown to Richmond Row or by the Market or grab a bite to each at local eateries in Wortley Village and other neighbourhoods throughout the city.
Nature & Natural Landscapes
The “Forest City” has many pathways and acres of rolling parkland with more than 200 parks and areas to walk, jog, and cycle. And, if you enjoy skiing, Bolar Mountain is the place to be during the winter. The City of London, Ontario is a short drive to the beach in Grand Bend or Port Stanley on the shores of beautiful Lake Huron.
Sifton Bog offers a nature getaway within steps of the city.
Sporting Events & Concerts
London is home to the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), London Lightning of the National Basketball League of Canada (NBL), and the Western Mustangs Football team.
The City of London is a prime destination for concerts. It hosts music festivals each year, including Rock The Park and Trackside, and it is home to Budweiser Gardens, London Music Hall, Centennial Hall, Rum Runners, and other venues.
London Music Hall
Culture & Diversity In London
Diversity
Approximately 20% of London’s population was born outside of Canada contributing to ethnocultural and religious diversity. This is about 95,000 residents. Approximately 11% of London’s population are visible minorities. The number of immigrants choosing to move to London is on the rise. More than 3,000 new immigrants come to the city each year.
London has a community rooted in English, Scottish, and Irish heritage. German (11.6%), French (9.6%), Dutch (6.3%), Italian (5.0%), and Polish (4.4%) are common ethnicities.
The most common visible minorities are East Asian (3.9%), Arab (3.6%), South Asian (3.1%), Black (3.0%), Latin American (2.4%), and Southeast Asian (1.2%). Aboriginals make up 2.6% of the population. Ethnic communities are growing in the city with Spanish and Arabic listed as the languages spoken most often after English.
Places of Worship
London has diverse churches, synagogues, mosques, and temples including:
About two-thirds of the population is of Christian faith. Islam is the second most common faith. You can find places other places of worship in London by clicking here.
The Weather in London
London has a continental climate characterized by large seasonal contrast. There are four distinct seasons: winter, spring, summer, and fall. On average, the weather is comfortable allowing for outdoor activities year-round.
Summer months are hot and humid with an average temperature in July of 20.5°C.
Winters are cold with seasonal snowfall averaging 200 cm. The typical temperature in January is -6.3 °C. While winter can be cold, you can enjoy many outdoor activities when you dress for it.
Downhill skiers at Bolar Mountain
Common Questions Immigrants Ask About Living in London
Is the City of London, Ontario Good for Immigrants?
Even though London is not a top destination for newcomers overall, it’s an ideal landing spot. The immigrant communities are growing and the city offers many career opportunities. And, it’s a great place if you desire a big city feel without the drawbacks of living in a larger city.
What are the Pros and Cons of Living in London, Ontario?
The City of London is home to world-class health care and education. Housing is still more affordable compared to other cities in Ontario. And it has the amenities of a big city with a small-town feel.
But, there are some drawbacks. It has a dated transit system, so you may need a car to get around the city. Another drawback is that it has limited industries for employment, in this case, it’s critical to research London’s labour market before you arrive.
Is London, Ontario a Safe Community for Families?
Yes! London is a safe community. It has a strong community focus with top-quality education programs for kids, making it an ideal city for young families moving to Canada. It also has a low crime rate.
For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle successfully!
