HOW TO BEGIN YOUR LIFE AS A NEW PERMANENT RESIDENT IN CANADA

What happens after you become a Permanent Resident in Canada?

Adapting into your new life as a Permanent Resident can take a little while, but the Canadian government has put out a comprehensive system of resources and professionals that will smooth the process for all the newcomers eager to begin the next chapter of their lives.

You have already gone through the process to obtain a permanent residency in Canada and your application has finally being approved. A door of opportunities has been opened for you, the chance of starting a new life in Canada as a student or as a professional. And, as important as the process that you went through to get your Residence, is equally or even more important to best prepare for your arrival to Canada and the life that awaits you there.

Before you leave your country, it is a good idea to check out some useful information about what your responsibilities and rights are as a Permanent Resident of Canada. You need to get acquainted with your new country, its rules and way of living in order to ensure a successful adaptation process.

Canada is prepared and ready to help newcomers, how?

The Government of Canada has a wonderful tool in its website that provides guidance in your life experiences as a newcomer. With this tool you can inform yourself better about key issues such as which documentation is essential for your trip to Canada, how to get private health insurance while you settle in, or learn more about the job opportunities available for you, the housing arrangements you need to make prior to your arrival, the process of getting your work or education documentation certified, among others. You can also access a list of pre-arrival service organizations that are available for you to help you in the settling process. You have all the options laid down for you and you can choose according to your possibilities and needs.

One thing you need to know is that you are not a Permanent Resident of Canada until you cross a Canadian port of entry with your passport, your Canadian visa and your Confirmation of Residence. Once you get through the Customs office, you are officially a new Permanent Resident of this wonderful country.

After you are in Canada, you will wait a period of around three months to  receive your Permanent Residence, but you will receive your Social Insurance Number once you enter Canada or you may process it as soon as you enter so you can start working, it is a very simple process and it is done right on the spot.

The PR card, for new residents, will be mailed to the address you indicate to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada office. Other relevant documents you need to process right away after your arrival is the Health Card, so you can get access to the Canadian Public Healthcare System and a driver’s license, if you plan to have a car. Be mindful that each province has its own set of rules and conditions regarding the process to get a driver’s license and your health card.

 How to settle down after you arrive in Canada

The Canadian government funds multiple organizations across their territory to help immigrants and newcomers to adjust to their new lives as fast as possible. The Pre-Arrival Services offered by RCIC  which are free and support you with organizing your living and work preparations and connecting you with the right services that will help you during your first days as a new Permanent Resident.

The costs of settling down in Canada

Even before you arrive to Canada, you must be clear in one thing, if you embark on an immigration process you need to be aware that you will need to have enough resources to support yourself during the first months, especially if you arrive without a job offer. The cost of living will vary depending of the province you choose to settle in, so it’s important to do research to make a financial plan that will include monthly expenses, transportation, utilities and other services like phone and internet.

The multiple ways the Canadian government helps you find a job

For all newcomers, the Canadian government through different offices such as Citizen and Immigration Canada provides with a thorough list of resources that will help new Permanent Residents to look for a job opportunities inside the Canadian market. You will need to find the option that adapts most to your needs, according to the immigration program you were accepted or the province you chose to settle in, your age, interests, etc. It’s important to read and evaluate all the options you are offered or ask for help if you find yourself confused.

There are many things to consider when applying for a job in a new country. You need to learn about the job market, the way Canadians conduct job interviews, how to prepare your CV in the Canadian style, the importance of getting recommendation letters or assisting to networking events. The better prepared you are, the bigger chances you will get.

Get immersed in the Canadian culture

No matter which province you choose to go, it is important to adjust yourself you your new country as soon as you can, this way it will be easier for you to connect to new people, make friends and get a more fulfilled experience as a Permanent Resident. During those first weeks in Canada, get familiar to your new city and surroundings, explore the transportation system, use the Immigrant Services Map, and check out the multiple free options you have to explore and know your new city. Remember, you are now part of the Canadian community and you should put all your efforts to be an active, involved citizen of your new country.