Resources
Explore essential information, services and tools
Employment
- Access Employment – Provides employment services for newcomers, including job search assistance, resume building, and networking events.
- Toronto Employment and Social Services – Offers employment programs, workshops, and financial assistance for job seekers.
- YMCA Employment Services – Provides career planning, job placement, and skills development for newcomers and job seekers.
- Job Skills – Employment Services for Newcomers – Offers workshops, mentoring, and placement services tailored for immigrants.
- Career Edge – Internship programs for recent graduates, internationally trained professionals, and newcomers.
EDUCATION
- Toronto Public Library – Newcomer Services – Offers free resources for learning English, preparing for tests, and accessing information on education in Canada.
- LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) – Free language classes for newcomers to improve English skills.
- Ontario College of Teachers – Bridging Programs – Programs to help internationally trained educators qualify for teaching in Ontario.
- Toronto District School Board – Continuing Education – Offers ESL classes, career training, and adult high school programs.
- EduCanada – Resource for studying in Canada, including scholarships and program information.
General Resources
- Settlement.org – Comprehensive resource for newcomers, offering information on housing, healthcare, employment, and education.
- CultureLink – Provides settlement and integration programs for newcomers, including mentorship opportunities.
- Welcome Centre Immigrant Services – Offers a wide range of settlement services for newcomers in the GTA and York Region.
- Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto (NEW) – Focuses on empowering immigrant women through employment and educational programs.
BASICS
Toronto has a variety of public transit options that make it easy to navigate the city without a car. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates buses, streetcars, and subways that cover most of the city. For longer distances or nearby cities, GO Transit provides bus and train services. Many also use ride-sharing services, and cycling is increasingly popular with dedicated bike lanes across the city. Presto cards are essential for easy access to all transit systems!
Toronto offers a wide range of job opportunities across sectors, from tech to finance, healthcare, and the arts. Start by polishing your resume for the Canadian market and setting up a LinkedIn profile. Employment centers like Access Employment or YMCA can offer workshops and networking events. Volunteering or joining industry-specific groups can also help you connect with local professionals and find job opportunities.
Finding a place to live in Toronto can be competitive, but understanding your options can help. You can look for apartments, condos, or shared accommodations on sites like Kijiji, Rentals.ca, or PadMapper. Many people also work with real estate agents for faster results. Look for areas close to work, school, or transit lines to save commuting time, and remember to consider costs like hydro, internet, and renters’ insurance in your budget.
Toronto is home to top-rated schools, colleges, and universities, along with many language schools. Programs like LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) offer free English language classes to help you build your language skills. For kids, the Toronto District School Board and Toronto Catholic District School Board provide options for public education. Explore community colleges like George Brown and Seneca for skill-building courses and certifications.
As a newcomer, your first step is to apply for the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), which provides access to free healthcare services. While there is often a waiting period before you’re eligible, walk-in clinics and telemedicine options are available for non-urgent care. Many residents also have private health insurance for additional services like dental, vision, and prescription medications.
Opening a Canadian bank account is a priority for newcomers. Major banks like TD, RBC, CIBC, and Scotiabank offer special accounts for newcomers with benefits like free banking for the first year. Credit history is important in Canada, so consider getting a secured credit card to start building yours. For remittances, services like Remitly and Western Union are popular for sending money abroad.
Toronto offers everything from budget to luxury shopping experiences. For groceries, chains like No Frills, Loblaws, and FreshCo offer a range of choices at different price points. Local farmers’ markets are a great way to find fresh produce and support local vendors. Stores like Walmart and Dollarama are ideal for affordable home essentials, and Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods mean there’s always a spot to find specialty items from back home.
Understanding your legal rights is essential as a newcomer. Free services like those offered by Legal Aid Ontario can provide legal guidance for low-income residents. Settlement services can help with topics such as tenant rights, employment laws, and immigration documentation. It’s also helpful to understand your rights in the workplace and your rights as a renter.
Meeting people and making friends can feel daunting, but Toronto has a thriving community of newcomers and social clubs to join. Check out Meetup, local Facebook groups, and community centers for events and activities that match your interests. The city is known for its multicultural festivals, which are a great way to connect with people from your culture or explore new ones!
In case of emergencies, dial 911 for immediate help. Toronto has a reliable emergency response system for police, fire, and medical assistance. For non-urgent matters, you can call 311 for city services or 211 for community support. Additionally, Toronto Police Services provide helpful resources for newcomers on staying safe and understanding local laws.