Welcome to Ontario

Settlement Services

As a newcomer to Ontario, you may have questions getting settled in your new home. Ontario Immigration has many services and programs to help you find the information and help you need. Any time you need more help, you can also ask an expert.

Find a Home

Discover Ontario’s communities in our Cities and Towns section. It includes links to community websites that offer help to newcomers.

Learn about housing in Ontario or, for detailed information on buying or renting a home, including what you can expect to pay, home insurance, your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, and options for short-term accommodation, visit the Housing section at Settlement.org - our partner website hosted by the Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants.

Learn how to find housing or an apartment to rent.

Ask an expert for more advice.

Know your human rights in Ontario, and learn about your responsibilities. Discover more about the history of human rights in Ontario and the creation of the Ontario Human Rights Commission.

Find Employment

Many newcomers to Ontario find that looking for a job can be a full-time job in itself. There are many places that can help you find work, learn about what to expect in your industry or learn about current Ontario labour market information.

You should also know which professions require a licence in Ontario, and how to have your academic background assessed to work in your profession. Internationally trained and educated individuals can find out how to qualify for professional practice in Ontario at Global Experience Ontario.

If you want to work temporarily in Ontario, read Working in Ontario with a work permit to find out how to apply.

Ask an expert for more advice.

fun facts

Niagara Falls is known as the “Honeymoon Capital of the World.” Every couple receives an official honeymoon certificate signed by the Mayor of Niagara Falls.

Find Social Services

To work in Canada, you need a Social Insurance Number.
Ontario has a publicly-funded health care system. Find more information on the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
For information about getting a driver’s licence in Ontario or to find a public transportation system in your community, see our Getting Around section.
Learn more about Ontario’s services and programs to help you get involved in your community and recreation.
Find licensed child care in Ontario and more information on children and youth services.
Find help if you are a victim of domestic violence or abuse against women and children.
Find programs and services for seniors in Ontario.
Find information about access for people with disabilities.
Find information on the Ontario Child Benefit program for families with low incomes.
Find information on community services, developmental services, social assistance, or family responsibility.

Ask an expert for more advice.

settle in Ontario

Settlement Assistance Organizations and Finding an Agency both provide information about agencies that can help you settle in Ontario.

Find a School

Everything you need to know about learning in Ontario:

Find information on day care or sending your children to school.
Discover Ontario’s colleges and universities.
Learn about studying in Ontario as an international student.
Find ways of upgrading your skills, completing high school or furthering your education as an adult learner.

Ask an expert for more advice.

Learn about becoming a Canadian citizen. Get the Citizenship application form, study the Guide and prepare for the Test. Additional online help is available at Citizenshipnow.ca.

Find Language Classes

English and French are the two official languages of Canada. If you need to improve your language skills, Ontario offers many resources that can help you, either before you arrive or after you’ve settled in your new home. Programs and services tailored for children are also available. Once you’ve arrived, you can locate language classes offered across the province by using this online tool.

Ask an expert for more advice.

Explore Ontario: Be a Tourist in Your New Home

The bright colours of the fall, or autumn, make this one of Ontario’s favourite seasons for driving the Ontario countryside. Winston Churchill once described the Niagara River Parkway as “the prettiest Sunday afternoon drive in the world.” Find out why. You can also download your own PDF copy of Great Fall Drives 2008.

Fun Facts and Figures

Canada’s oldest farmers’ market is located behind Kingston’s 160-year-old City Hall, which overlooks the city’s harbour. You can keep an eye on the activities on Market Square with this fun webcam. The square turns into a skating rink during winter.

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.