Countdown to Canada

A soft landing allows new immigrants to come to Canada briefly to complete their immigration formalities and initiate their Permanent Residence (PR) processing before moving to Canada permanently. In this episode, we talk about the pros and cons of doing a soft landing and how you can put that time to good use. Here’s what you’ll learn about: What is a soft landing? Who is eligible for a soft landing in Canada? Documents required for a soft landing in Canada Things to do during your soft landing Where to stay during your soft landing Pros and cons of doing a soft landing in Canada Links to free resources: Preparing for Your Move to Canada Guide Pre-arrival Checklist for Canada Book an appointment with an RBC Newcomer Advisor  Financial Guide for Newcomers to Canada Networking Guide for Newcomers to Canada Finding your Career in Canada Guide Housing Guide for Newcomers to Canada

As a newcomer, your pre-arrival journey starts when you first apply for a Canadian immigration program. But even as you wait for your application to be approved and in the months before your move, there’s a lot you can do to prepare for your future life. In this episode, we talk about the essential tasks you should complete before moving to Canada permanently. Here’s what you’ll learn about: Budgeting for your initial months in Canada Signing up for settlement services Preparing for the Canadian job market Researching housing, healthcare, and schooling in Canada Understanding banking and financial products in Canada Making travel arrangements for Canada Finding temporary accommodation in Canada Wrapping up your job at home Consolidating finances in your home country, and more Links to free resources: Pre-arrival checklist for Canada Preparing for Your Move to Canada Guide Cost of Living in Canada Calculator Networking Guide for Newcomers to Canada Financial Guide for Newcomers to Canada Book an appointment with an RBC Newcomer Advisor  Canadian Resume Templates

Did you know that the government of Canada requires all consultants who are giving advice on immigrating to Canada or submitting Canadian immigration applications to be licensed? In this episode, we talk to Andrea Bailey, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), about factors to consider before hiring an immigration consultant for Canada. Here’s what you’ll learn about: Do you need an immigration consultant to come to Canada? Advantages of hiring an immigration consultant for Canada Types of regulated immigration consultants Tips on finding a regulated immigration consultant for Canada Red flags to watch out for when hiring an immigration consultant How much does it cost to hire an immigration consultant Links to free resources: Immigrating to Canada Guide College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) website Contact Andrea at Yalla Canada

As you settle into a new country, your financial stability is essential. This means not just earning an income, but also putting your savings to work, so you can better achieve your financial goals. In this episode, we talk to Anam Yousaf, an RBC Newcomer Advisor, about how newcomers can save and invest funds in Canada. Here’s what you’ll learn about: Financial goal setting as a newcomer How much money should newcomers save? Difference between saving and investment Savings and investment products in Canada Registered savings accounts in Canada How to choose the right saving and investment products How to manage your investments as a newcomer Links to free resources: Financial Guide for Newcomers to Canada Book an Appointment with an RBC Advisor

Moving to Canada can be a huge change for many newcomers, and culture shock during the initial months is not uncommon. Knowing what to expect can make it easier to adapt to Canada’s culture. In this episode, we talk about some cultural differences to look out for and tips to immerse yourself in Canadian culture. Here’s what you’ll learn about: Appreciating Canada’s diversity and multiculturalism Mastering the official languages of Canada Getting comfortable with small talk Respecting personal space The importance of networking in Canada Giving back by volunteering Cultural differences in the classroom Tips for newcomers to adapt to cultural differences Links to free resources: Pre-arrival Checklist for Canada Networking for Newcomers to Canada Guide Cost of Living in Canada Calculator Preparing Your Move to Canada Guide

If you’re moving to Canada with your family, then you’ll need to prepare your kids for this major transition, in addition to figuring out things like accommodation and employment. In this episode, we share tips on helping your children adapt to life in Canada, including enrolling them in school, arranging childcare, finding a doctor for your kids, registering for CCB, and more.  Here’s what you’ll learn about: Types of schools in Canada How to enrol your newcomer children in school Helping your kids adapt to school in Canada Finding child care in Canada Family doctor versus pediatrician How to qualify for Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Links to free resources: Preparing for your Move to Canada Guide Finding Your Career in Canada Guide Newcomer’s Guide to Finding Accommodation in Canada Book an appointment with an RBC Newcomer Advisor

Your credit score is your financial reputation in Canada and it indicates to lenders your capacity to repay a loan. In this episode, we speak to Wanzi Silva, Senior Manager, Newcomer and Cultural Markets at RBC, for newcomer tips on building a good credit score in Canada.  Here’s what you’ll learn about: What is a credit score? Why do you need a good credit score in Canada? How to build your credit score as a newcomer Factors that impact your credit score in Canada Tips to build a good credit history as a newcomer Links to free resources: Financial Guide for Newcomers Book an appointment with an RBC Newcomer Advisor

One of the advantages of living in Canada is access to publicly funded healthcare. Canadian residents don’t pay for most healthcare expenses out-of-pocket but through provincial taxes. In this episode, we talk about coverage under provincial health insurance plans and how newcomers can get access to medical services. Here’s what you’ll learn about: Is healthcare free in Canada? Who is covered under provincial health insurance plans? Costs covered by provincial health plans Accessing healthcare in Canada Finding a family doctor in Canada Getting specialist or emergency care Health costs not covered by provincial plans Links to free resources: Moving to Canada Checklist Preparing Your Move to Canada Guide

The right candidate isn’t just someone who can do the job; it’s someone who can work with others toward a common business goal. In this episode, we talk about why company culture matters to employers and how newcomers can prepare for culture fit interviews in Canada. Here’s what you’ll learn about: What is company culture?  Why does company culture matter? How to evaluate a company’s culture How to prepare for a culture fit interview as a newcomer How not to answer culture fit questions in interviews Tips to adapt to Canadian work culture Links to free resources: Career Guide for Newcomers to Canada Canadian Resume and Cover Letter Templates Networking Guide for Newcomers to Canada

Did you know that 88% of Canada’s entire working-aged population is active on LinkedIn? In this episode, we speak to Ryan Aird, a senior recruiter at RBC, for tips on how newcomers can leverage LinkedIn to build their network, upgrade their skills, and even apply for jobs in Canada. Here’s what you’ll learn about: What is LinkedIn How to create or optimize your LinkedIn profile Requesting recommendations on LinkedIn How to find and network with professionals on LinkedIn Using LinkedIn to apply for jobs What to post on LinkedIn Other LinkedIn features: Premium and Learning Links to free resources: Networking Guide for Newcomers to Canada Newcomer’s Guide to Finding a Job in Canada Canadian Resume and Cover Letter Templates

Getting ready to apply for jobs in Canada? The first thing you’ll need is a Canadian-style resume. In this episode, we speak to Prachi Korde, a senior recruiter at RBC, for tips on how newcomers can create a Canadian-style resume that’ll clear ATS and impress hiring managers. Here’s what you’ll learn about: What is a Canadian-style resume? Why using a Canadian-style resume is important Types of Canadian resume formats Tips on crafting an ATS-friendly resume Explaining employment gaps on your resume Skills to list on your resume in Canada Do cover letters matter? (Yes!) How to make your resume stand out Things not to include in a Canadian-style resume Links to free resources: Newcomer’s Guide to Finding a Job in Canada Canadian Resume and Cover Letter Templates Networking Guide for Newcomers to Canada

Plan to move to Canada permanently? In this episode, we speak to Andrea Bailey, an immigration consultant, about the various immigration programs Canada offers and how to pick the right one for your situation. Here’s what you’ll learn about: Canada’s immigration targets for 2023 to 2025 Express Entry programs: FSW, FSTP, CEC Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) Family Sponsorship Start-Up Visa program Other PR programs for moving to Canada How to choose the ideal Canadian immigration program Links to free resources: Immigrating to Canada guide Cost of Living in Canada Calculator Tips to improve your CRS score for Express Entry Contact Yalla Canada

As a newcomer, your first few months in Canada is when you lay the groundwork for your future life here. From getting your finances set up to fast-tracking your job search, and finding a place to live to adapting to Canadian culture, your first 100 days in Canada will be crucial for nearly all aspects of your life. In this episode, we talk about the things that you as a newcomer should do to ensure that your transition to life in Canada is smooth and stress-free. Here’s what you’ll learn: Budgeting for your first six months in Canada Opening a newcomer bank account Things to do in your first week: SIN, credit card, phone plans Applying for provincial healthcare coverage Renting permanent accommodation Finding a job in Canada Enrolling your kids in school in Canada Adapting to cultural differences and the weather Links to free resources: Cost of Living in Canada Calculator Speak to an RBC Newcomer Advisor to open a bank account Newcomer’s Guide to Accommodation in Canada Preparing Your Move to Canada Guide

As a newcomer, the financial decisions you make during your initial months and years in Canada can impact your long-term financial success - whether it’s choosing the right banking and investment products or learning how to use credit appropriately. In this episode, Clem speaks to Wanzi Silva from the Newcomer and Cultural Segment at Royal Bank to Canada (RBC) on how banking works in Canada, financial products for newcomers and tips on building your credit history from scratch in Canada. Here’s what you’ll learn: Types of financial institutions in Canada Tips to choose the right bank as a newcomer Chequing vs. savings accounts How to open a Canadian bank account before you arrive Why your credit history is your financial reputation Tips to build your credit score in Canada Investment products to grow your savings  Links to free resources: Speak to an RBC Newcomer Advisor to open a bank account Financial Guide for Newcomer to Canada

Did you know 65% to 80% of available jobs in Canada aren’t publicly advertised? As a newcomer, networking is the only way to tap into this hidden job market. In this episode, we share tips to build your professional network in Canada and leverage it for your job search. Here’s what you’ll learn: What is Canada’s hidden job market Why networking is important for your career How professional networking works in Canada Ways to build your network: LinkedIn, coffee chats, networking events and more Tips to leverage your network to get a job in Canada Dos and don’ts of networking Links to free resources: Newcomers’ Guide to Networking in Canada Guide on Finding your Career in Canada Customizable Canadian style resume templates

If you’re moving to Canada soon, it’s time to start looking for a place to stay. In this episode, we cover useful tips on renting a home as a newcomer in Canada. From finding temporary housing to understanding the types of homes available and tips on navigating newcomer challenges to rent long-term accommodation, we talk about everything you need to get that lease signed and ensure a smooth move in process! Here’s what you’ll learn: How to find temporary accommodation for your first few weeks Renting a permanent, long-term home in Canada Types of homes in Canada and how to decide which one is right for you How to find a home to rent: realtor v/s self-search Tips to rent without a Canadian credit history or job letter Questions to ask the landlord or realtor before signing a lease Tips on moving into your new home How to buy a home in Canada Links to free resources: Speak to an RBC Newcomer Advisor to Open a Bank Account Cost of Living in Canada Calculator The Newcomer’s Guide to Finding Accommodation in Canada

Planning to study in Canada? In this episode, we share valuable tips on coming to Canada as an international student, from applying for your study permit and budgeting for your education, to finding student housing and working part-time, and everything in between. Here’s what you’ll learn: What makes Canada a great place to study Cost of studying in Canada (Hint: Don’t forget to add your living expenses!) How to apply for a Canadian study permit 5 mistakes that can get your study permit rejected Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GIC) and why you need one On-campus vs. off-campus accommodation Working part-time as an international student Staying in Canada after graduation: PGWP and PR (and eventually, citizenship!) Links to free resources: Cost of Studying in Canada Calculator Speak to an RBC Advisor to Open a GIC Tips on Writing a Statement of Purpose for your Study Permit The Newcomer’s Guide to Networking in Canada Your Guide on Immigrating to Canada

Looking for tips on finding a job in Canada as a newcomer? This episode covers all the job search essentials, from getting the right work permit and building a Canadian resume, to networking your way into the hidden job market. Here’s what you’ll learn: Who is allowed to work in Canada Types of work permits for Canada How to find jobs in Canada (Hint: 65% to 80% of jobs aren’t publicly posted!) Tapping into Canada’s hidden job market through networking Building your network through LinkedIn and coffee chats Creating a Canadian-style resume Tips to ace your interviews in Canada How easy is it to get a job in Canada? (Hint: It might take a little time and effort.) Links to free resources: Free customizable Canadian Resume and Cover Letter Templates The Newcomer’s Guide to Finding Your Career in Canada The Newcomer’s Guide to Networking in Canada