Preparing for your move to Canada

In Canada you'll likely experience almost every type of weather — snow, ice, sun, rain, humidity and wind. Depending on where you are, an average year in Canada will bring snowy winters and hot summers with moderate spring and fall seasons in between.

However, if you haven't experienced the bitter cold of a Canadian winter before, it may surprise you. Come mentally prepared and purchase winter attire that will keep you warm.

It’s important to note that workers in the service and hospitality sectors in Canada rely on tips. If you come from a country where these workers earn a guaranteed livable wage with benefits, be mindful that this isn't the case in Canada. In fact, most bartenders and servers earn minimum wage or lower because there's an expectation that they will earn tips. Tipping is built into the service industry in Canada, so it's customary to include a tip for service workers as a result.

Prepare yourself for the cost of living in Canada Opens in a new window., including rent, taxes and household expenses. Estimate how much it'll cost to live where you're planning to settle, because this varies by city.

Before you leave your home country, find out if there's a limit on how much money you’re able to bring with you. You can get this information by checking with your banker, financial advisor or lawyer. It's also important to find out how much money Opens in a new window. you'll need, how much money you can bring and which items you’re able to import both duty-free and tax-free.

In addition, you'll be required to provide proof of funds. This means that if you're immigrating as a skilled worker or self-employed person, you’ll have to prove you have the money to support yourself and your family when you land in Canada.

Finding a job in Canada can be a lengthy process, especially if you’re establishing connections in a new country. It can take months before you land a professional position, so it's important to give yourself a financial cushion. You can do this by bringing enough funds to get you through those first few months of job searching and expect to take on a non-career job while you wait for a role in your field to become available.

Tip: Consider following Canadian job search etiquette by using a Canadian-formatted resume and being proactive about finding opportunities. Learn more about job searching in Canada Opens in a new window..

In Canada, it’s illegal to smoke in public places. This includes stores, offices, restaurants, shared areas of apartment buildings, etc. With permission from your landlord, you can smoke in your rental and you can also smoke in your personal vehicle, provided you don't have a minor in the car with you. You may also smoke in designated smoking spaces or outside.