Settling in Toronto
PDFs arriving in Toronto for the first time will undoubtedly have a number of questions and concerns. Below are a few pointers to help you get settled in the Toronto area.
Obtaining a Temporary Social Insurance Number (SIN)
To work in Canada, even temporarily, a Social Insurance Number is required. To apply, visit a Human Resources and Development (HRDC) office to submit an application form. Further contact information can be found on the Human Resources and Development Canada Web site.
Opening a Bank Account in Toronto
PDFs should consider opening a bank account in Toronto. To open an account, visit your local bank and present two pieces of identification such as a passport, driver’s license, or Social Insurance Number. One piece of identification must have a photo.
Enrolling Children in School
Whether you are new to Canada, to Ontario or just to Toronto, if you have school-aged children, you may need some assistance in registering them in local schools. The Family Care Office has excellent resources to guide you through the registration process.
Connecting Utilities
When renting an apartment or house, utilities will need to be connected. The major utilities are phone, hydro (electricity), and gas (heating). There are many companies that provide these services. You can search for companies for electricity and heating at: http://www.energyshop.com/es/homes/ele/ele-prices.cfm and http://www.energyshop.com/es/homes/ele/ele-prices.cfm . Search for telephone providers in the Yellow Pages.
The company may require proof of identification, and information/verification of your employment status before it agrees to connect services. Engagement letters can be used as verification. Please contact the company to get more information.
Finding a Doctor in Toronto
To secure a family physician in Toronto, you must first find a doctor who is accepting new patients. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario offers a useful Web tool called Doctor Search.
Finding a Dentist
The Ontario Dental Association offers a search tool called Looking for a Dentist? to help patients find a dentist in their local area who is accepting new patients. The Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Toronto also has a Patient Clinic offering full-service dental care, at reduce rates. Please refer to the link above for further information or to make an appointment.
Driving in Ontario
A valid Ontario Driver’s Licence gives you permission to drive in the province of Ontario. It can also be used for identification purposes. To change your current licence to an Ontario licence and to find out about driving in Ontario, please visit your local Ministry of Transportation of Ontario Office.
Registering a Vehicle in Ontario
To register a vehicle in Ontario, the vehicle must have current insurance, be safe, and be emissions-clear. Securing insurance should be the first step in the registration process. All vehicles must be inspected for safety and for emissions under the Ontario Drive Clean program. Once a safety certificate has been issued, the vehicle can be registered with the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO). Insurance papers, current registration, safety certificate, car title, and customs forms must be presented to the MTO where a licence plate will be issued.
Community Resources
There are many community organizations and agencies that provide services and information to newcomers.
If you are new to Ontario, Settlement.Org is for you. Find answers to common questions about moving to Ontario and settling into your new home.
211Toronto.ca provides comprehensive, accurate and up-to-date information on services provided by non-profit, community-based organizations for the public sector.