Starting a new life in Canada can be both exciting and daunting.
On one hand, newcomers are coming to Canada with the opportunity to start fresh after leaving their home country, a move that gives them a chance to build a prosperous life for themselves and their families in a country that has ranked in the top three of U.S. News’ Best Countries ranking for three consecutive years.
On the other hand, moving to Canada can be nerve-wracking for newcomers because they are arriving in unfamiliar territory. This can leave newcomers to Canada prone to making mistakes when they first arrive.
From cultural misunderstandings to financial missteps, the following will provide essential tips that will hopefully set you on the path to success in your new home.
Mistake 1: Underestimating the Canadian weather
Unlike some of Canada’s top newcomer source countries, such as India, where weather patterns are often less volatile, weather conditions in Canada are usually somewhat extreme across different seasons and provinces.
Therefore, newcomers need to ensure they are adequately prepared for the climate conditions they will face when they arrive in their destination province.
Mistake 2: Lacking insight into your new locale
A significant pitfall experienced by many newcomers, which can affect both their lifestyle and job prospects in Canada, involves the consequences of failing to thoroughly research the specific province or city they will be landing in.
Although many newcomers may be able to understand some generalizations about life in Canada as a whole, it is important to also understand that each province and territory across Canada is unique. From different employment opportunities to unique education systems and healthcare programs (more on that later), newcomers should take the time to conduct a detailed and focused search into what life is like in their specific destination province/territory.
Mistake 3: Delay in establishing financial foundations
Ensuring that you set the right financial building blocks for you and your family, and making sure that this process is started early, is key. In other words, because the Canadian banking system for newcomers to Canada can be different than what you are used to in your home country, not opening a Canadian bank account or properly understanding credit systems early on can be detrimental.
Mistake 4: Unfamiliarity with Canadian workplace norms
Canadian workplace culture is very different from the reality in many newcomer source countries, particularly those outside North America. For example, there is a specific Canadian-style resume that newcomers are advised to follow when looking for work.
Networking is also an important part of finding a job in Canada. Therefore, one area where many newcomers to Canada falter is misjudging the nuances of professional workplace etiquette and communication in Canada.