Life as a student in a new country is always exciting, yet at the same time, it is a little challenging, especially when one moves to Canada. Managing between the tasks of classwork, settling in a new culture, and just coming to terms with the fact of being in a different country can be tasking. That is why today, we propose a detailed step-by-step checklist for international students starting school in Canada.
Checklist for international students studying in Canada
State or local tenant regulations
Most housing issues are manageable if the tenant has some knowledge on what the tenant is legally entitled to receive or be provided with and the obligations of the landlord in providing the basic needs of the tenant. This means everything from when your landlord can enter your apartment legally (and how much notice they must give you) to how quickly they have to repair a broken stove, or respond to an eviction notice.
The word ‘tenant’ regulations can therefore be understood as a way of two directions being travelled. While the landlords have the duty to ensure that the property is well maintained, the same duty also falls on the side of the tenants. Being cleanliness to your unit, report any problems to the management, and following all the reasonable policies are among the expectations of a tenant.
Nevertheless, approaching the issues regarding tenant and landlord may become quite delicate. In Canada there is a dedicated agency for each province to deal with such cases. In Ontario, it is called Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board or OLT is for short. British Columbia the institution is known as Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB). Quit stalling – go straight to your local government’s website for information on which agency is the one you will have to contact in case of a dispute.
Rent stabilization
Currently, rent control in Canada depends on the provinces where it is surprising that most of the provinces do not possess rent control laws. For example, in the province of British Columbia, the rent increase have been capped to 3. For 2024, 5% has been pegged target and the landlords are required to give the tenants three months’ notice of intent to increase the rent.
Refer to the table below for a detailed breakdown of rent control policies by province.
| Province | Rent Controlled? | Annual Increase for 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | Yes* | 2.5% |
| New Brunswick | No | NA |
| Saskatchewan | No | NA |
| Prince Edward Island | Yes | TBA |
| British Columbia | Yes | 3% |
| Nunavut | No | NA |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | No | NA |
| Alberta | No | NA |
| Quebec | No | NA |
| Northwest Territories | No | NA |
| Nova Scotia | No | NA |
| Yukon | No | NA |
| Manitoba | Yes | 1.7% |
Campus policies and guidelines
Although we live in a day and age where Canadian communities are less concerned with smoking in public, it is within our interests to remember that university campuses consist of private property. Since they are all private institutions, each can adopt their own regulations and the majority have taken “smoke-free” policies as in — no smoking allowed on campus at any level.
Noise becomes a concern in residence halls also. Most campuses have quiet hours in order to provide a peaceful learning environment. There are usually rules governing the operation of motor vehicles on campus. These regulations help manage traffic flow and ensure safety.
Municipal regulations
As implied by the name, these regulations vary throughout Canada. For example, quiet hours in Toronto are on weekdays from 11 PM to 7 AM and on weekends from 11 PM to 9 AM.
Should you be traveling from Europe or another area with laxer drinking restrictions. It’s critical to understand local legislation that limits alcohol use during specific hours and in public areas.
Go to the website of your municipal administration to find out more about the specific bylaws that apply to your city.
Social Insurance Number (SIN)
If you are permitted to work off-campus under your study permit, you must apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) as soon as you get to Canada. You can use your passport, study permit, and other supporting documents to complete this process. This can be done through the Government of Canada website.
Once your SIN is obtained, you can work for any employer as long as it doesn’t conflict with the terms of your study visa. The application process is simple. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will use your SIN for income tax purposes. It will also be used to manage tax benefits or refunds.
Emergency healthcare coverage
Many students have their university automatically enroll them in a group health plan, and their tuition covers the cost of the plan. These plans typically cover unexpected life-threatening illnesses, such as cancer. They also provide quick emergency care for issues like broken bones and head injuries.
Some provincial health insurance policies may cover international students. However, you might need to arrange and pay for your own insurance in other cases. Furthermore, there may be a waiting period before coverage takes effect, even if your jurisdiction offers it.
Supplemental health insurance
Essential medical services are covered by provincial and territory health systems in Canada, but not always. Supplemental health insurance can help with that. The benefits of this kind of coverage go above and beyond what is offered by government programs.
In Ontario, extra medical coverage frequently consists of:
- Prescription medications
- Dental care
- Paramedical services like physiotherapy, massage therapy, and chiropractic care
A lot of Canadian student unions and colleges provide group health insurance policies with extra coverage. For students in particular, this can be a terrific way to obtain coverage at a reasonable price. Your school may require this coverage or it may be optional. Additionally, you may be able to include your dependents or spouse in your plan if you are married.
Family doctor
There are numerous universities with on-campus health services. Students now have a handy option to receive healthcare without having to leave campus thanks to these student medical clinics. Prescriptions, examinations, and immunizations are among the services provided here.
Usually, you have to first complete an online form in order to use these services. You will then make an appointment to visit a physician.
Settling in Canada
Phone and internet
Traveling abroad can be lonely, so it’s essential to have dependable, fast internet and a phone plan with plenty of data and minutes. This will help you stay connected with friends and family back home while making new ones on campus.
Canada is known for its high data plan costs. However, you can find great deals on back-to-school packages by shopping around before the fall semester starts.
If your university doesn’t provide home internet access, consider looking for internet providers in your area. You might be able to get discounts by bundling internet with other services like TV or phone.
Waste collection
Depending on where you live, different waste collection options, such as recycling, composting, and green bin services, may be available.
If you live on campus or in an apartment complex, inquire about the garbage disposal policies from your university, building management, or landlord.
Depending on where you live, you may need to follow specific rules for garbage disposal, recycling, and green bin waste.
Most townhouses, duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes in Canadian urban areas receive curbside garbage collection once a week. For further information on rubbish collection in your area, visit the website of your municipality.
Most Canadian urban areas divide residential waste into three categories: garbage, recycling, and green bin waste.
Conclusion
In conclusion, following this step-by-step checklist for starting school in Canada ensures a smooth transition for students, including permanent residents. By addressing essential tasks such as securing a study permit and arranging health coverage, you’ll be well-prepared to begin your academic journey in Canada.