Newcomer Checklist
Your First Year in Canada At a Glance
Moving to a new country is a major milestone. Knowing where to start can ease the transition. Here’s a checklist to help you navigate your first week, month, and year in Canada. Be sure to check out our Resources Directory to help you find the services listed on this page, and more!
Get a Local Phone Number: Buy a Canadian SIM card or phone plan so you can stay connected. Click here for a list of wireless and cellphone service providers in Sault Ste. Marie.
Find a Place to Stay (Short-Term): If you haven’t found permanent housing yet, look for short-term rental options. Visit our housing page for resources and to learn more.
Learn How to Get Around the City: Get a bus pass, check local routes, and download local transit apps.
- Unlike larger cities, Sault Ste. Marie has one of the shortest commute times from home to work! Visit our transportation page to learn more about how to get around the city.
Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN): You need this to work or access government services in Canada. Visit the Government of Canada website to learn more.
Get your Ontario Health Card: In Ontario, health care coverage is under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). You need to register for an Ontario Health Card to receive coverage and to access health services. Visit the Government of Ontario website to learn more.
Open a Bank Account: Look for newcomer-friendly bank account options with low fees. Visit our Money and Banking page for a list of resources and to learn more.
Find Essential Services: Find nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and healthcare providers.
Get Help from Newcomer Settlement Services: The Sault Community Career Centre offers free assistance and programming for newcomers.
Register Children for School/Daycare: If you have children, make sure they are registered for school or daycare services.
Start looking for a job: Update your resume for Canadian employers and start applying to jobs. Visit our employment support page for a list of resources.
Meet New People, Grow Your Connections: Attend community events, join newcomer groups, and connect on LinkedIn to build professional relationships.
Improve Your English or French: Take classes to improve your English or French skills to increase your job prospects. Visit our language training page for available resources.
Get Your Ontario Driver’s License: If you plan on driving, start the process of getting your license.
- If you are new to driving, click HERE for information on how to apply for an Ontario driver’s license.
- If you have a foreign driver’s license from a country that has an exchange agreement with the province of Ontario, you might be able to exchange it for an Ontario license. If there is no exchange agreement, you might be eligible to receive credit for your foreign driving experience, however, you are still required to pass all applicable tests to earn your Ontario driver’s licence. Visit the DriveTest website to learn more.
Explore Your New City: Visit libraries, community centers, and parks to get familiar with your new environment.
- The Sault Ste. Marie Public Library is an excellent resource for newcomers. Bring your ID and proof of address to sign up for a FREE library card, which will give you access to books, movies, computer & printing services, museum passes, park passes, and more!
Build Credit: Get a credit card and use it responsibly to build a good credit score.
Find Long-Term Housing: Start searching for permanent housing and learn about your rights as a renter.
Know Your Rights: Learn about workers’ rights, tenant laws, and how to access government services.
Register with a Family Doctor: Find a healthcare provider for ongoing medical care.
Refill Prescriptions: If you take medication, make sure you have access to your prescriptions in Canada.
Secure a Stable Job: If needed, look into bridging programs or credential assessments to work in your field.
Grow Your Professional Network: Go to job events, find a mentor, and connect with others in your profession. Visit our Employment and Entrepreneurship page for a list of networking resources in the community.
Learn About Taxes and Benefits: Understand how to file Canadian income tax and check if you qualify for child or family benefits.
Get Involved in Your Community: Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, gain experience, and give back to your new home.
Plan Your Finances for the Future: Learn about retirement savings options, including RRSPs and Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs).
Keep Learning: Consider improving your skills through certifications, college programs, or free online courses.
Review Your Immigration Status: If you’re on a temporary visa, look into permanent residency options as your first year progresses.
Be Kind to Yourself: Adapting to a new country takes time. Celebrate each achievement, no matter how small!
