Family Migrant

It is very important that you remember to bring the following documents to Canada with you. In most cases these documents are very valuable and you may want to bring photocopies as well as the originals. You will need your documentation available to show to immigration and customs officials upon your arrival in Canada.

Ethno-Cultural Communities in NWO 
Some offer opportunities to socialize or participate in specific cultural activities or events. Other groups provide settlement services to newcomers such as assistance obtaining important documents (permanent residency, refugee status), translation and interpretation services, as well as English language classes or schools.

Settlement Services in NWO 
Services are available to help you obtain the proper documentation to live and work in Canada including: Ontario Driver’s License, Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) identification, and Social Insurance Number (SIN) identification.

Find a Place to Live 
Choosing the right community, neighbourhood and home really depends on your personality and the type of lifestyle you seek.  Fortunately, our region’s diverse communities offer something for everyone; whether you seek peace and tranquility by the water, a vibrant social scene in the city or a family suburb in which to raise a growing family.

Finding a Job 
Finding a job in Northwestern Ontario isn't always easy - especially as a newcomer. There are many ways to look for a job in the region and below is a list of some of the most relevant resources.

Finding a Doctor 
Ontario has a publicly-funded health care system available through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). A resident of Ontario must have a health card to show that he or she is entitled to health care services paid for by OHIP. Newcomers should expect to wait approximately three months until they receive their Health Card identification that will allow them to receive health care services.

Shopping 
Northwestern Ontario offers unique shopping experiences. Exclusive gift shops, art & crafts stores and specialty boutiques can be found in even our smallest regional towns.

Child Care Services 
Child care is widely available for young children and their families in Northwestern Ontario. Child care providers are provincially regulated to protect the health, safety and well-being of children.

Emergency Services 
The emergency services in Northwestern Ontario are divided into different organizations, but the 911 system allows you to quickly contact all of them – the fire service, ambulance service, municipal police, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the coastguard.

Early Learning and Preschool 
Early Learning establishes important literacy and numeracy skills in pre-school children through stories, music, reading and play. Early Years Centres, Family Resource Centres, community centres, and other community organizations may offer early learning and parenting programs.

Registering Your Child in School 
The School Boards or Local Education Authorities (LEA) in your community are responsible for admissions and helping parents to register their children for school. Parents must live in the school boundary area of the school in which they plan to enroll their child.  School Boards also provide for special education needs to ensure that all children have access to education.