Moving to a new country is a significant step for anyone, but it can be particularly daunting for international students who are settling in Ontario, Canada. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can make this transition smoother and less overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate some of the important steps you need to take to get settled in Ontario as an international student.
Activate Health Insurance
One of the steps for settling in Ontario as an international student is to activate your health insurance. All international students in Ontario are required to have health insurance, and you can activate your coverage through your school or directly with an insurance provider. Once you have activated your health insurance, you will be covered for medical expenses like doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications.
Get a SIM Card
As an international student in Ontario, getting a SIM card is crucial for staying connected with loved ones and the world around you. With carriers like Rogers, Bell, Telus, and Fido offering a variety of plans and features, it's important to do your research before choosing the right one.
Consider factors like coverage, data, features, price, and student discounts when selecting a plan. Each carrier has its own special features and discounts for students. In addition, you will need to provide identification and address proof to activate your plan.
Apply for SIN
You will need to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) in order to work and pay taxes in Canada. The SIN is a nine-digit number that is unique to you and is required for various government services, including healthcare and banking.
To apply for a SIN, you will need to visit a Service Canada Centre in person. You will need to bring your passport, and study permit, and you may also need to provide additional documents. It is important to keep your SIN safe and secure, as it contains sensitive information and can be used for identity theft.
Activate Your GIC/Bank Account
Activating your Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) or bank account is an important step for international students in Ontario. This is because having a bank account is essential for various transactions such as paying bills, receiving funds, and managing finances.
To activate your GIC, you will need to follow the process set by your financial institution. Once you have activated your GIC, you will be able to access a portion of the funds to cover your living expenses. The remaining funds will be released to you in installments throughout the duration of your studies.
And to open a bank account, you will need to visit a bank branch in person and provide identification documents such as your passport and study permit. You may also need to provide proof of address, such as a utility bill or a rental agreement.
Get Bus Pass
Getting a bus pass is an important aspect of settling in Ontario as an international student. Having a bus pass will give you access to public transportation, making it easier to navigate the city and travel to and from school, work, or other activities.
There are several different types of bus passes available in Ontario, including monthly passes and discounted student passes. These passes are available from your local transit authority or through your educational institution, and the cost will vary depending on the type of pass and your location.
To obtain a bus pass, you will need to provide proof of identity and residency, such as a passport, study permit, or utility bill. You may also need to provide proof of enrollment at your educational institution to be eligible for a student discount.
Using public transportation can also be a sustainable and cost-effective way to travel around Ontario. The transit system is well-established and reliable, with buses, subways, and streetcars operating throughout the city. Many cities also offer additional services such as bike rentals or car-sharing programs to complement public transportation.
It is important to familiarize yourself with the bus routes and schedules in your area to make the most of your bus pass. You can access this information through your local transit authority's website or mobile app. Some transit authorities also offer trip planning tools to help you navigate the city and plan your route.
When using public transportation, it is important to follow the rules and regulations set by your local transit authority. This may include guidelines for behavior, payment, and safety.
Get your G1 Licence
Getting your G1 licence is an important step towards being able to drive in Ontario as an international student. A G1 licence is the first level of a graduated licensing system that allows individuals to learn to drive and gradually gain more driving experience. Once you have your G1 licence, you can practice driving with a licensed driver in the passenger seat, but you are not permitted to drive alone.
After holding your G1 licence for at least 12 months, you can take a road test to obtain your G2 licence. With a G2 licence, you have more driving privileges and can drive on your own with some restrictions, such as a limit on the number of passengers you can carry and a zero blood alcohol level while driving.
Finally, after holding your G2 licence for at least 12 months, you can take another road test to obtain your full G licence. With a G licence, you have full driving privileges and can drive without restrictions.
Navigation
Exploring your new surroundings is an exciting part of being an international student in Ontario, and having access to maps and navigation tools can make it easier and more enjoyable. One of the most popular mapping tools is Google Maps, which provides detailed directions, traffic information, and real-time updates on public transit options.
Another popular option is Apple Maps, which comes pre-installed on Apple devices and also offers detailed maps, directions, and real-time traffic updates. Both Google Maps and Apple Maps are user-friendly and offer similar features, so it may come down to personal preference when deciding which one to use.
It is important to note that while these mapping tools can be extremely helpful, they should not be relied upon solely for navigation as It is still important to have a basic understanding of the area.
In conclusion, settling in Ontario as an international student requires preparation, research, and planning. By following these steps and taking advantage of available resources, you can make your transition to Ontario smoother and more successful. Remember to take the time to explore the city, meet new people, and make the most of your experience as an international student in Ontario. Good luck!
