Living

You can find information about different Ontario cities and towns – what they are like and what they have to offer – in this section. There is also information about daily living, such as getting around by car or public transit, finding schools and other services for your children, and understanding your rights and responsibilities under Canadian law.

This section also includes links to information on cultural groups, banking, housing and personal finances.

Ontario is an exciting place to live. To learn more about what to do and see in Ontario visit our About Ontario section.

For information on health and housing in Ontario, see our Before You Arrive section. The Find Help Close to Home section on Settlement.Org will help you to find services in a specific area or city in Ontario.

Information to Help You Settle

How to use this site

As you are getting settled, you will probably have many questions about how things are done. This section of the website helps you to learn about living, working, doing business and studying in Ontario.

Toronto’s is a major North-American centre for the financial services industry with many jobs that could use your skills and experience. Career Advisor, an interactive website developed by the Toronto Financial Services Alliance can help you access an in-demand career in the financial services sector.

Publications and Resources

Important Links You Will Find in This Section

See a map of Ontario with links to Cities and Towns.

Everyone should understand their rights and how to ensure that those rights are respected. The Ontario Human Rights Commission has a number of fact sheets on human rights issues.

Getting a Driver's Licence - newcomers can use a foreign driver’s licence for 60 days after arriving in Ontario. This site tells you how to get an Ontario driver’s licence.

Learn more about cultural communities

Will there be anyone to assist me when I arrive?

Make sure you prepare well before you arrive and that you have all of the documents you need. Try to arrange for a friend or a family member to meet you at the airport so that you get all of the help you need. Know that you can always use the Services Near Me directory to locate services and programs available in your community.
Where can I find information about my new community?

Visit our Cities and Towns section for municipal information or use the Services Near Me directory to locate services and programs available in your community. You can also contact your municipality for information on recreational activities in your area.
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 access 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.
Where can I get a health card?

If you are eligible, you can obtain a health card from a Service Ontario centre. You will need to fill out an application form and take it with you along with additional documents when you apply for a health card.
How can I find a doctor?

You can find a doctor by searching the directory of doctors in Ontario. You may also use you local telephone directory to find a doctor in your community.
Where can I find a hospital?

You can find a listing of hospitals in Ontario on the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.
Does the Ontario Government offer health insurance to immigrants?

Permanent residents, temporary workers, convention refugees and other specific groups may receive coverage under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) three months after arriving in Ontario. Apply for public health insurance as soon as you arrive in order to ensure you are covered after your first three months. Find more information on OHIP eligibility and health care in Canada.
Where can I learn about Ontario's education system?

Find information about the school system and academic programs in Ontario.
Where can I go to improve my English?

Basic English language assessment and instruction for adults is available in Ontario. School boards also deliver English as a Second Language (ESL) programs for children and non-credit programs for adults. Use our language class wizard to find an English language training program near you.
How do I become a Canadian citizen?

The requirements and applications are available from the Government of Canada.