Arrival Kit - Ontario

1/ Purchase a SIM card:
  • Example: Chatr at $32.00/month for 50 GB of data with a 2 GB Autopay bonus and unlimited calls across Canada.
2/ Obtain a SIN (Social Insurance Number):
  • Visit the nearest SERVICE CANADA with your passport and permanent residence confirmation document.
  • Take a ticket and wait for your turn.
3/ Obtain a Permanent Resident card:
  • Contact IRCC and follow the instructions, especially for address change if necessary, so that your card is sent to your current address.
4/ Obtain a Health Card:
  • Visit the nearest SERVICE ONTARIO with your passport, permanent residence confirmation document, lease contract, and the completed and signed form (available on-site).
  • Take a ticket and wait for your turn.
  • After registration, expect to receive your card by mail within 1 to 2 weeks.
5/ Open a bank account:
  • We will help you choose the bank that suits you. Bring identification (passport or permanent resident card), the permanent residence confirmation document, the lease contract, and the SIN document.
6/ Register for Ontario Works:
  • Create an online account at https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-works
  • Follow the steps: download and fill out the forms, send the requested documents, wait for the results.
  • Once accepted: request the STARTER KIT, including: mattresses, beds for adults, children, and babies; kitchen supplies (utensils, pot, pan, fork, toaster, etc.); cleaning products; broom, etc.
  • Ask for a free dental care card for children. Make an appointment for your children with an ophthalmologist and get a free pair of glasses for the children.
  • Request assistance for purchasing strollers and car seats for babies or children.
  • Obtain a subsidy for medications in case of chronic illness.
  • Ask for guidance on training or to achieve your employment goals.
7/ Register at the YMCA:
  • https://www.ymca.ca
  • 1 - Make an appointment for an assessment of your English level to study or improve your English for free (part-time or full-time).
  • 2 - Request to be referred for the furniture bank.
  • 3 - Actively search for a job in collaboration with Ontario Works.
8/ Make an appointment at the FURNITURE BANK:
  • After being referred by the YMCA, contact your Furniture Bank to schedule an appointment and receive necessary household furnishings (sofa, table, chairs, wardrobe, etc.) that are used but in good condition, for a sum of $200 to $250 including transportation.
11/ Register at the food bank:
  • Registration at your local FOOD BANK for food support: Sign up at your local Food Bank to receive food support and baby diapers if needed.
  • You can go once or twice a month depending on eligibility criteria.
15/ Getting help to obtain winter clothing:
  • For adults: Dial 211 on your phone to access community services.
  • Once connected, navigate through the automated menu system by following the voice prompts. When you reach a live operator, explain that you're seeking assistance with winter clothing.
  • The operator will guide you through the process, potentially connecting you with local charities or organizations that provide winter clothing support for adults in need.
  • Be prepared to provide some basic information about your situation and clothing requirements.
  • Remember, this service is designed to help those facing financial difficulties in obtaining adequate winter wear, so don't hesitate to ask for the help you need to stay warm during the cold months.
16/ Obtain a driver's license:
  • Make an appointment on Drivetest.ca.
  • With capacity: G1 then full G license within 1 month max.
  • Without capacity: G1 in 8 months, then G2 in 24 months for the full G license.
17/ PAF:
  • You should also go to PAF (Francophone Welcome Point) + the nearest community center.
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