History & Government

History

Ontario, which became a province in 1867, is the second largest of Canada’s 10 provinces. The name Ontario comes from the aboriginal phrase “glittering waters” which refers to our thousands of lakes.

Ontario’s history is a story of many cultures. This section describes the original settlements by aboriginals, the arrival of European explorers and traders, waves of immigration, the rise of industry, people moving to cities, and much more.

Learn more:

Ontario’s history from the early 1600s to the early 2000s

Ontario’s First Nations history

History of the Francophone community in Ontario

Government

Both Canada and Ontario have a parliamentary system of government, based on the British model. This section explains how government works in Ontario and Canada.

The federal government and the provincial governments have different powers, but work closely together to deliver vital services.

Federal Government - The Government of Canada

The federal government is responsible for nation-wide concerns, such as foreign affairs. It works with the provinces in such areas as transportation, health and justice.

Learn more about the Government of Canada

Provincial Government - The Government of Ontario

The provincial government is reponsible for transportation, health the administration of justice and education.

Learn more about the Government of Ontario

Municipal Government - Cities and Towns

Cities and towns take responsibility for municipal matters such as local bridge and road repairs, public transportation, garbage collection, sewage system maintenance and public utilities. They sometimes share some aspects of these responsibilities with the province. These are set out in the Canadian constitution.

See the links below for more information.

About the Government of Ontario

About voting in Ontario and Canada

Municipal government in Ontario

How do I apply to immigrate to Ontario, Canada?

The Government of Canada, through the department of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC), is responsible for processing immigration applications. You can find information on their website. Ontario has a Provincial Nominee Program, Opportunities Ontario, where Ontario nominates individuals for permanent resident status.
How do I apply for a Social Insurance Number?

Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number required for temporary and permanent residents to work legally in Canada and to have access to government programs and benefits. You can apply for a SIN at a Service Canada office. Make sure you bring with you the required documents and a completed application form.
Does the Ontario Government offer health insurance to immigrants?

Permanent residents, temporary workers, convention refugees and others may receive coverage under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) three months after arriving in Ontario. Apply for public as soon as you arrive to ensure you are covered after your first three months. Find more information on OHIP eligibility and health care.
How can I find out about Ontario's Francophone community?

You will find information about the different programs and services available to Francophone immigrants in Ontario in our Living in French section and on Etablissement.org (en français).
What should I do if an employer wants me to work in Ontario?

You must either be a permanent resident or have a work permit in order to work in Ontario. You are also required to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN). It may also be necessary to have your international academic credentials assessed and recognized.
What jobs and professions are in demand in Ontario?

You can access job offers, wage information, job demand and skills requirements with the Working in Canada tool. You may also benefit from labour market information that will provide you with current market trends.You can access job offers, wage information, job demand and skills requirements with the Working in Canada tool.
How can I get my education and professional credentials assessed?

You can find information on education and credential assessment on our site and learn about Ontario's professional licensing bodies. You may also want to know about apprenticeship program to work in the trades and about bridge training programs to enter the Canadian market.
Where can I get information about the Ontario economy?

You can find information about Ontario's economy and get economic updates on the Ontario Ministry of Finance's website and find out about the Canadian economy from Industry Canada.
How much does it cost to apply as a business immigrant?

You can find the application fees on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada site and additional information on business immigration such as how much you need to invest in Ontario on Invest in Ontario.
If I am an international student, what are my employment options?

There are employment opportunities for international students while studying in Canada. Certain students are eligible to work in their field of study for up to two years after graduating. Eligible students must apply to Citizenship and Immigration Canada for a work permit. You need a social insurance number to work in Canada.