Coming to Canada with PR status has many clear benefits. Permanent residents can live, work, or study anywhere in the country. They can access many public services, like health care, and enjoy protections similar to citizens. If they meet the rules, PRs can also apply for Canadian citizenship later.
Even with this security, settling in comes with unexpected lessons. Today, we will discuss the five lessons to take before moving to Canada as a PR.
So, without further ado, let us begin!
Canada Can Be Very Hot As Well As Very Cold
Canada is often known for cold winters, and many newcomers prepare mainly for snow and freezing temperatures.
A lot of research is usually done on winter survival, blizzards, and frostbite. However, what often comes as a surprise is how much the weather changes across the country and how intense Canadian summers can be.
Some cities, like Vancouver, are known for milder weather. Other places, like Toronto, experience very cold winters, with January temperatures averaging around -7°C. But summer brings a different challenge. July temperatures often reach around 27°C, and many days go above 30°C.
Without knowing how hot summers can be, it is easy to underestimate the need for warm-weather clothing. Many newcomers later realize they should have kept more summer clothes instead of giving them away before moving.
Settlement Services Are Free, Helpful, And Easy To Find
Canada offers free settlement services to help newcomers adjust to life in the country. These services are mostly funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and are provided by local community organizations.
Moreover, these programs support newcomers with jobs, housing, language learning, and daily life in Canada.
Many newcomers only learn about these services after arriving, often through friends or word of mouth. Once connected, the support can be very useful.
Settlement organizations often help newcomers:
- tailor resumes for the Canadian job market;
- understand what employers expect; and
- prepare for job interviews through workshops and training.
Depending on location, there are also services designed for specific needs. These include programs for women, youth, Francophones, and newcomers looking to improve English or French skills.
Some services are available even before arrival in Canada through IRCC-funded pre-arrival programs.
Note: A directory of federally funded settlement services is available through IRCC. Many provinces and cities also fund their own programs, which can be found through local government websites.
Meetup Groups And Networking Events Help Build Community
Another one of the five lessons to take before moving to Canada as a PR includes meeting new people in a new country.
Well, in many parts of Canada, winter limits outdoor activities. Cold weather, shorter days, and fewer casual social moments can make it feel harder to connect with others.
Still, social life continues throughout the year. Many cities offer Meetup groups, hobby clubs, sports leagues, and professional networking events. There are also groups created specifically for newcomers.
These groups help people make friends and also support career growth by building professional networks.
Note: IRCC’s settlement resources include services focused on connecting newcomers with their local community. This is often a good starting point for finding events and programs. Provincial and municipal governments may also run similar activities.
Winter Clothing Does Not Have To Cost A Lot
Buying winter clothing can feel overwhelming at first. Newcomers often worry about staying warm and safe in extreme cold, which can lead to overspending.
While winter gear is important, it does not always need to be expensive.
The most useful approach is simple:
- Invest in one good winter jacket, such as a warm parka or insulated coat with a hood
- Buy one reliable pair of winter boots
- Use smart layering with thermals, gloves, warm socks, and a toque
It also helps to focus on quality and function rather than brand names. Features like insulation and water resistance matter more than logos. Expensive brands do not always mean better warmth.
There is also no need to buy everything at once. Many people slowly add winter items as they learn what works best for their city and lifestyle.
Immigration Rules Can Still Affect Permanent Residents
Many newcomers believe that once PR status is granted, immigration concerns are finished. In reality, rules and policies can still change and affect permanent residents.
For example, IRCC recently reduced the standard validity period of visitor visas from 10 years to one or two years. This can affect family members or friends who want to visit Canada for events like weddings or graduations.
Another example is the Parents and Grandparents Program. At present, invitations are still being sent only to those who submitted an interest form in 2020. Anyone planning long-term family reunification benefits from staying informed about such programs.
Permanent residents must also meet basic requirements to keep their status. One key rule is being physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within a five-year period.
It is also important to understand misrepresentation. In Canadian immigration law, misrepresentation means giving incorrect information or leaving out important facts that could affect a decision. This can happen by mistake and still have serious consequences.
Misrepresentation can affect permanent residents later, including during citizenship applications, and may even lead to loss of status.
The takeaway is clear. Staying informed, following the rules carefully, and seeking professional advice when unsure can help protect PR status and future plans in Canada.
MakeHomeCanada, a Canadian immigration leader, promises excellence and tailored pathways for your Canadian journey. Get in touch with us at [email protected].
