Confessions of a new Canadian Immigrant: Things I Wish that I had Known

By Catherine Sas, K.C.
Special to The Post

I have said many times in our blogs how completely in awe that I am of the utter courage that it takes for people to come to Canada to make a new life. Immigrating to a new country takes bravery. As immigration lawyers, my partner Victor and I come into contact with our clients each and every day learning of their journeys to make Canada their new home. We also employ new immigrants - Victor and I are the only native-born Canadians working in our office. So, this past week, I reached out to our team to comment on their own personal journeys to learn what they wish that they had known prior to arriving in Canada to start a new life. Here is what they had to share:

Health Coverage

When we arrive in Canada, we are eligible for this marvelous Canadian health care, however we need to wait for three months. So, we need to have temporary insurance. Also, international students in BC are charged a health fee of $75 per month. You need to notify Health BC that you have applied for your work permit as an international student to avoid being charged this fee. Health care coverage, while terrific, requires a lot of effort to fully understand what it provides and to respond in a timely fashion. In the meantime, we have access to walk in clinics and, if necessary, emergency room treatment at hospitals.

Cultural Differences

One of the biggest things that I learned in Canada is that there is no difference between being a woman and being a man when it comes to independence and having control over your own life. In many situations, being a woman can actually be a source of strength and independence. When I first came to Canada, one thing that really stood out to me was how personal decisions, especially in relationships and marriage, are treated here. For example, I learned that if a marriage is no longer working for you, you have the right to leave. You do not have to wait for the man to make that decision or agree to it first. As a woman, you have the right to make decisions about your own life and to walk away from a situation that is making you unhappy or uncomfortable. This taught me the importance of knowing your rights, being independent, and having the confidence to make your own decisions.

Financial Considerations

CASH IS NOT KING! Many people will offer you or ask for cash payment. This is not necessarily in your best interest. Being paid “cash under the table” for work means that you won’t declare this on your tax returns and you won’t qualify for bank loans or credit cards as this payment won’t show up as part of your financial history. (It is also illegal to not report cash income!). Similarly, if you pay for things in cash, you will not have an actual financial record for things that you have purchased. As stated above, accepting undeclared cash payments will not help you get a bank loan for a car nor a mortgage for a house. Think carefully before you accept cash payments for things.

Insure Yourself

You need insurance! Car insurance, health insurance, life insurance, home insurance…. but especially tenant’s insurance. As newcomers to Canada, you will often rent accommodation. Landlords insure the building that you live in, but they don’t insure your possessions. If the house or apartment burns down - the building is insured but not your possessions. Similarly, when you choose for theft insurance for your car…it only insures the theft of the vehicle itself and not any of the contents. Anything you leave in your car such as your purse, backpack, computer or cell phone - those will be covered on your home or tenants insurance policy….if you have one!

Establish Financial History

Your CREDIT HISTORY is really important. Maybe in your home country, your family history (Father, Mother, Brother, Uncle) carries over to your banking or financial history. NOT in Canada! You are ON YOUR OWN! Your financial history is based upon your declared income with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). If you don’t report it - it doesn’t count! A cash-based lifestyle does not lend itself to a strong banking history. In Canada, your history of using credit cards, paying bills and loans on time and generally managing your financial affairs can affect your credit score and your ability to qualify for loans for a car or mortgage for a house. Your financial reputation is determined by how you deal with CRA and your banking institutions. It requires FULL FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE!

Save Your Documents

Keep copies of all of your documents: Leases, passports, immigration permits, tax records and even important emails. All government agencies will ask you for PROOF of things so keep your proof with you!

Permanent Residence is not Permanent!

Sadly, your permanent residence status is not always permanent. A criminal record can lead to the loss of your permanent residence status. You want to stay on the right side of the law and not only avoid the trauma and expense of criminal proceedings but also the potential loss of your permanent residence status and deportation from Canada. You are only truly a permanent resident of Canada once you are a citizen.

Adjusting to a new environment is never easy. Learning the rules of the “game” takes time. The lessons above are the tips that our immigration team is sharing with you to help you make your adjustment to Canada a bit easier. Thanks to all of the Sas and Ing team for sharing your experiences and your wisdom!

Catherine Sas, K.C. has over 35 years of legal experience. She provides a full range of immigration services and is a leading immigration practitioner (Lexpert, Who’s Who Legal, Best Lawyers in Canada). Go to canadian-visa-lawyer.com or email [email protected].