If you plan on moving to Ontario, know that you chose to settle down in one of the friendliest countries in the world, and that comes with many benefits. While you are still in the US, go over all the necessary documents for relocating to Canada, check out what things you should pack and what you should leave behind. Ontario is home to the nation’s capital, Ottawa, its most populous city, Toronto, and many other amazing communities. Before choosing a place to call home, be it Toronto or Ottawa, take some time to learn a few essential things about relocating to the most populous Canadian province.
#1 Documents You Will Need for Moving Internationally to Canada
Are you wondering what the documents needed to travel abroad are? After you’ve made sure you have a valid passport, you can contact the Canadian embassy and go over every document you need. There are plenty of work visa options, as well as ways you can become a citizen or a permanent resident.
#2 Pick the Place to Live In
Ontario has an area of 415,598 square miles and a population of around 13.5 milion people, which makes it the most populous Canadian province and the second-largest by territory. With that kind of space, it will be easy to find a place to call home. You can choose between urban metropolises such as Toronto or quiet suburban towns. Do your research, and it will be easy to find a city that will make you happy.
Toronto Is Not the Only Option
When you think about moving to Canada, Toronto might the first place that crosses your mind. Yes, Toronto is the largest metropolis in the province and the country, with nearly three million people and many entertainment, educational, and employment opportunities. But it is not the only city where you can live a happy life. Ottawa might not be as big, but there are also the benefits of living in a capital, and if you don’t feel like being in big cities, check out towns like Waterloo, London, and Paris.
Rental Leases Are Easy to Understand
Are you going to rent or buy your new home? If you are renting, know that landlords have to use standard lease templates. These forms have all the information regarding the rent, as well as the rules and terms of the building. Here you can find all of your rights and responsibilities, as well.
Don’t Forget Insurance When Moving to Canada
It’s always better to be safe than sorry. That’s why you should think about insurance policies while you are still in the US. Until you settle down and obtain a Canadian health policy, you should get a travel one. This also can be applied to your vehicle until you insure it in the country. Don’t leave it without a policy.
#3 Land a Job When Moving to Ontario, Canada, From the Us
The so-called Great White North is the 10th strongest economy in the world, and Ontario is its leading manufacturing hub, with more than half of the total national manufacturing shipments. Forest products and mining, notably pulp and paper, are essential parts of the economy. In bigger cities, you also might find work in other fields, such as tourism, retail, and media. And to avoid moving stress, think about employing international moving services to relocate your household while you are job hunting.
Before Moving Aborad, Discover the Biggest Employers in the Province
Huge national and international enterprises are always on the lookout for fresh and skilled talent. Go over the list of the biggest employers, check out their job offers, and apply if you find something that piques your interest and meets your qualifications. The province is home to companies like Safariland, Chariot Travelware, Niagara Bottling, and Prime Healthcare. At the same time, the Waterloo region is a major tech hub where the headquarters of Toyota and BlackBerry are located.
#4 Master All the Transportation Options
The province is connected with the rest of the country with two major east-west routes, but there is a northern route as well. With a well-maintained network of highways, most cities are well connected.
There is also an inter-regional passenger train service and the Saint Lawrence Seaway, which is mostly used for cargo. The province is home to the busiest airport in Canada – Toronto Pearson International Airport, which serves nearly 50 milion passengers a year.
You can pick and choose whichever option suits you the best, but if you plan on shipping your car, go over the procedures for obtaining a Canadian driver’s license. Stay with us to find out more about this topic.
When Moving to Ontario, You Will Need a Drivers License
Every province in the country has a set of rules that you should follow to get a new license as quickly as possible. The US signed the License Exchange Agreement with the Ontario government, allowing American citizens to exchange their valid permits for a Canadian one.
Biking Might Be a Way to Get Around
Leaving a bike in storage or not packing it at all when relocating would be a mistake. Cycling is quickly becoming one of the most popular activities all around the province, but also a frequently used method of transportation.
#5 Go over the Cost of Living
When you relocate to Canada, you will find yourself in a country that is famous as one of the best places to live in. Nevertheless, calculating how much money you will need to get by and even put some in savings is a natural part of every relocation.
Depending on where you chose to relocate, the prices of housing, groceries, and transport might vary. Metropolises like Toronto are typically pricier, but they come with great job opportunities and high paychecks that can cover all of your expenses.
Finding a roommate or settling down in a smaller community might be the solution to your budget problems. Also, you should know that the provincial government takes care of its residents by providing them with affordable healthcare.
Cost of OHIP
First of all, OHIP stands for Ontario Health Insurance Plan. Residents pay their premium through the income tax system, and it can go up to $900.
Every person that has a permanent residence here has the right to use this health plan. OHIP covers a wide range of health services, from doctor and hospital visits to ambulance services and surgical abortions.
#6 Open a Bank Account
You need easy access to your funds no matter where you live, and having an account in a local bank might help you avoid high transaction fees. While in Canada, you can open an account as long as you have proper identification. Every bank has a list of documents you need to obtain. Contact them for all the details.
On the other hand, you may have an account in the international bank available in ONT. In that case, when wondering who to notify when moving to Ontario, note that your bank is one of the institutions you need to inform about the change of address
#7 Have Fun Like a Local
When you pick a city to call home and unpack your boxes, it is time to meet new people and learn about the culture. When you start having fun like a local, that is when you will become a real Canadian.
With six national parks and 334 provincial parks, you can guess why locals are so into outdoor activities, like hiking, skiing, walking around in parks, and playing with their pets. If you live in a huge city, you can dance the night away or bar hop. Whatever you pick as a favorite pastime, ensure you make some friends along the way.
Hire an International Moving Company and Prepare for an Adventure
So, you’re thinking about moving to ONT? Well, you’re in for a real adventure! And what better way to start this adventure than by hiring a reliable overseas moving company, such as Sunset International Shipping? Contact us as soon as possible, wave goodbye to your old home, and embark on a journey to the great unknown. Who knows what kind of crazy experiences you’ll have in Ontario! Whatever happens, one thing’s for sure – it’s going to be a wild ride!
FAQ
Although ONT is considered the second most expensive province in Canada, the cost of living can vary depending on the city or town you choose to live in. Generally, cities like Toronto and Ottawa tend to be more expensive, with high housing costs, transportation fees, and overall cost of living. However, other cities like Kingston or Windsor can offer a lower cost of living while still providing access to amenities and services.
Finding a place to live in ONT can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can also be a fun and exciting process. One of the first steps is to determine your budget and preferred location. Online platforms such as Realtor.ca, Zillow, and Kijiji can provide a wealth of information on available properties, including apartments, condos, and houses for rent or sale. Additionally, local classifieds and real estate agencies can provide personalized assistance with finding a suitable home. Finally, networking with locals and other residents can be a great way to learn about new opportunities and find out about properties before they are listed.
Ontario has several cities that are popular among young professionals. Toronto, the province’s largest city, offers a thriving job market and a range of entertainment and cultural activities. The city has a diverse population and is known for its vibrant food and nightlife scene. Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is another popular choice among young professionals. The city has a strong job market in the public sector and technology industry, with several opportunities for career growth. Other popular cities include Waterloo, known for its technology and startup scene, and Kingston, which offers a smaller city feel with a range of cultural and recreational activities. London, Hamilton, and Guelph are also popular choices among young professionals, offering a mix of affordability, job opportunities, and a vibrant social scene.
The province is home to several major cities, including Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton, which have thriving job markets in sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, and government. The manufacturing industry is also a major contributor to the economy, particularly in cities like Windsor and London. Additionally, the province has a growing startup scene, with several incubators and accelerators supporting entrepreneurship and innovation.
ONT has a varied climate with four distinct seasons. In the summer months, temperatures can reach high temperatures with high humidity in southern parts of the province, such as Toronto and Ottawa. The autumn season brings cooler temperatures with colorful foliage, making it a popular time for outdoor activities. Winters in Ontario can be cold. However, cities such as Toronto and Ottawa tend to receive less snowfall than northern parts of the province. Spring brings milder temperatures with blooming flowers and trees.
Getting around ONT without a car is relatively easy after shipping overseas. Major cities like Toronto and Ottawa have extensive bus and subway systems, with frequent service throughout the day. GO Transit is another popular option, providing regional bus and train service throughout the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) and beyond. Additionally, there are several regional bus companies that operate throughout the province, including Greyhound and Coach Canada.
ONT has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, subways, and trains. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates the public transportation system in Toronto. The GO Transit system provides service throughout the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) and beyond. Ottawa’s public transportation system, OC Transpo, provides bus service throughout the city, while the Société de transport de l’Outaouais (STO) provides bus service in Gatineau, Quebec. Other major cities in the province, such as Hamilton, London, and Windsor, also have local bus systems.
Toronto is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, including Alo and Canoe, while Ottawa’s fine dining scene includes popular spots such as Atelier and Stofa. For a more casual dining experience, the Kensington Market neighborhood in Toronto is home to several popular restaurants, such as Seven Lives Tacos and Rasta Pasta. The Distillery District in Toronto is also a great spot to explore, with several trendy bars and restaurants. For craft beer enthusiasts, Bellwoods Brewery in Toronto and Tooth and Nail Brewing Company in Ottawa are popular choices. Additionally, Ontario’s wine region, the Niagara Peninsula, offers several wineries that provide tastings and tours, including Peller Estates and Jackson-Triggs.
Ontario has a wealth of tourist attractions you can visit after moving overseas, ranging from natural wonders to historical landmarks. One of the most popular attractions in the province is Niagara Falls, which draws millions of visitors each year to see the breathtaking falls up close. The CN Tower in Toronto is another must-see attraction, offering stunning views of the city from its observation deck. Parliament Hill in Ottawa is also a popular tourist destination, offering guided tours of historic buildings and grounds. Additionally, the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto are popular spots for art and culture enthusiasts, while the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa provides a glimpse into Canada’s military history. Other popular destinations in the province include Algonquin Provincial Park, the Thousand Islands region, and the Blue Mountain Resort.
Toronto is known for its lively nightlife, with several trendy bars, clubs, and lounges located in neighborhoods such as King West, Queen West, and the Entertainment District. Ottawa also has a thriving nightlife scene, with several bars and clubs located in the ByWard Market neighborhood. Other cities, such as London and Hamilton, offer a mix of cozy pubs and live music venues.
For hiking enthusiasts, the province is home to several national and provincial parks, including Algonquin Provincial Park, Killarney Provincial Park, and Bruce Peninsula National Park. Ontario’s lakes and rivers also offer opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The province’s winter season provides ample opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at several resorts, including Blue Mountain and Mount St. Louis Moonstone. Ontario’s beaches and waterfronts, such as Wasaga Beach and Sandbanks Provincial Park, offer opportunities for swimming, boating, and sunbathing during the summer months. For wildlife lovers, the province offers several opportunities for bird watching, with Point Pelee National Park being a popular destination.
Winter weather in ONT can be quite harsh, with temperatures that can drop below freezing and heavy snowfall. To prepare for winter in Ontario, it is important to invest in warm winter clothing and dress in layers, to help regulate body temperature. It is also important to ensure that your home is properly insulated and heated, with regular maintenance and inspections of your furnace and heating system. Preparing an emergency kit that includes blankets, food, and water in case of power outages or other weather-related emergencies is also recommended. If you plan to hire an overseas shipping company to help you transport your vehicle internationally, it is also important to ensure that your vehicle is equipped with winter tires and other safety features
Ontario has several highly regarded schools and educational institutions. In terms of primary and secondary education, the Toronto District School Board and the Toronto Catholic District School Board are among the largest and most respected school boards in the province. Additionally, private schools such as Upper Canada College and Havergal College offer exceptional education opportunities. For higher education, the University of Toronto, York University, and the University of Western Ontario are among the top-ranked universities in the country, with a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Other well-regarded colleges and universities in the province include McMaster University, Queen’s University, and the University of Waterloo.
Ontario’s cultural scene is diverse and vibrant, reflecting the province’s rich history and multiculturalism. Toronto, the largest city in the province, is home to several world-class museums and cultural institutions, such as the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario. The city also has a thriving music and performing arts scene, with several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Toronto International Film Festival and the Canadian National Exhibition. Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is home to several national museums, such as the Canadian Museum of History and the National Gallery of Canada. The province also has a strong literary scene, with several notable authors and publishers based in the province.
Relocating to a new place can be daunting, but there are several ways to make friends and meet new people after moving to Ontario. Joining local clubs and organizations, such as sports teams, book clubs, or volunteer groups, is a great way to connect with others who share similar interests. Attending social events and festivals in your local community is another way to meet new people and get involved in the community. Joining online groups and forums, such as Meetup or Facebook groups, can also be a helpful way to connect with others who are new to the area or have similar interests. Additionally, taking classes or courses in a new hobby or skill can provide opportunities to meet like-minded individuals. Overall, making friends and meeting new people after moving to Ontario requires a bit of effort and a willingness to put yourself out there, but can ultimately lead to rewarding and fulfilling connections.
