Many people move to Canada with the hope of starting a new life here. Yet once they arrive, many obstacles must be overcome in order for their aspirations to become realities.
1. Get a Job
As an unskilled immigrant living in Canada, the first step to making the most of your new life is finding work. This is a key aspect of integration and an excellent opportunity to showcase your abilities and experience.
Canada offers several programs that enable low- and semi-skilled workers to come and work within the country. These initiatives are meant to fill any skills shortages and assist Canadian companies who require workers for specific positions.
2. Start a Business
If you’re an unskilled immigrant, there are a few options available to you. One of the quickest and most straightforward routes is through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
For those without a work permit, applying for one is another viable option. Unfortunately, these permits can be tricky to acquire so it’s essential to begin the application process as soon as possible.
Another option is opening your own business in Canada. This can be an ideal way to establish yourself and lay the groundwork for future success, while providing financial security while providing invaluable experience.
3. Get a Health Care Card
Unskilled immigrants should obtain a health care card to gain access to healthcare services in Canada. With this document, you’ll have proof of entitlement for healthcare services that may otherwise not be available.
Canada’s healthcare system is generally funded publicly and free for eligible individuals. Canadian citizens, permanent residents, foreign workers with work permits and international students all have access to public health insurance coverage.
Registering with Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) can be done online or over the phone. All that’s required for registration is a valid personal health care card from Alberta, government-issued ID and proof that you are legally entitled to be in Canada.
4. Get a Passport
A passport is a legal document that grants you permission to travel overseas. It’s an essential piece of identification and can serve as an alternative to having a driver’s license.
When applying for a passport, you must have certain supporting documents ready. These include your birth certificate, proof of citizenship, proof of identity and other vital aspects of legal identification and travel information.
Passport processing times vary between countries, but generally take between three to six weeks. If you need your passport sooner, an expedited fee can be paid in order to speed up the process.
5. Get a Driver’s License
A driver’s license is an essential document that permits you to drive in Canada. It ensures your safety and the security of others on the road. Without it, it could be a costly mistake.
Canadian drivers must meet the official guidelines in each province or territory to obtain their licence. You’ll have to pass a knowledge test, take an eye exam and take the road test in order to become licensed.
As an unskilled immigrant, obtaining a driving license can be complex but worth the effort. It’s an excellent way to get around in your new home and discover all the places you plan on visiting.
6. Start Learning the Language
One of the best ways to make the most out of your new life in Canada is by learning the language. This can assist with finding employment and connecting with people in your community.
Furthermore, language learning can be an excellent way to explore the culture of your new home and make friends. There are plenty of online resources that make language acquisition convenient for busy professionals.
Canada’s immigration system currently favors those with high educational levels and language proficiency. Nevertheless, it’s essential to remember that there are other routes available if you don’t possess the necessary skillset for a skilled job in Canada.
7. Find a Community
As an unskilled immigrant to Canada, it is essential that you find a community that will enable you to make the most of your new life. This is especially true if moving to larger cities such as Toronto with one of the highest concentrations of immigrants worldwide. Living and working in an encouraging atmosphere where you can socialize with fellow Canadians and feel part of their local community are paramount; otherwise, your quality of life and decision to remain may suffer significantly.
