Settling in London, Ontario: Tips For Newcomers
So you’re thinking of moving to London, Ontario. That’s fantastic! London is an interesting city with a lot of things to see and do. The city was founded in 1826 and has a rich history shaped by Indigenous peoples, European settlers, and waves of immigration. There is no doubt that moving to a new city as an immigrant comes with its challenges, however, London, Ontario has a strong reputation for being safe, diverse and abundant in opportunities, so no matter your culture, nationality or ethnic background, you will fit right in. Here are some suggestions to get you started on your big adventure.
1. Research the City
Before you pack your bags and head to London, it’s a good idea to do some research. Get familiar with the different neighborhoods, like downtown, Old East Village, and Wortley Village. Each area has its own unique advantages and amenities, so it’s important to think about what is important to you before choosing where to live. For instance, if you have your own vehicle, then it’s not very important to choose an area with many public transit routes. This means that you can decide to live in a more secluded or quiet neighborhood if this lifestyle suits you. Here are some other factors to consider:
Job Market
Learn about the job market and industries that thrive in London. Whether you have an educational background or job experience in healthcare, education, tech, or manufacturing, London has numerous opportunities for a variety of career paths. Be sure to check out job listings online and connect with local organizations to learn more about job opportunities.
Education
It is important to explore the educational options if you have kids or are planning to further your own education. London is home to several universities, the most popular being Western University, and colleges such as Fanshawe College. There are also numerous easily accessible high schools, elementary schools, and nurseries, so you don’t have to worry about the logistics of sending your kids to school. Furthermore, education for children at the primary and secondary levels is completely free, although you do have the option of paying for private tuition for your children is also an option.
Cost of Living
Take some time to consider the cost of living in London currently and how it fits within your budget. Look into housing prices, utility costs, transportation expenses, and other factors that might affect your finances. It is also important to note that the combined federal and provincial tax rate in Ontario is somewhere between 20.05% and 53.53% so be sure to calculate your net income and make your financial decisions accordingly.
2. Housing
Now let’s talk about finding a place to live. London has a variety of housing options to suit every preference, lifestyle, and budget. For example, if you prefer city living, downtown London offers a buzzing and vibrant environment with plenty of apartments and condos to choose from. Accessing restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions will be a breeze, and you will be completely immersed in the heart of the city. For those seeking a quieter lifestyle, the suburbs surrounding London provide relaxing residential areas with spacious homes and lots of greenery. Neighborhoods like Byron, Masonville, and Oakridge offer a suburban atmosphere while still being within reach of downtown amenities. Here are some tips while exploring housing options.
Start Searching Early
Starting the search for housing early gives you a wider range of available housing options. Consider starting at least 1-2 months before your move-in date so that you have enough time to explore your options and make the best decision because good options generally get taken quickly, especially in popular areas like the suburbs.
Use Online Resources
Explore apps and websites like Kijiji, Craigslist, PadMapper, or Rentfaster, as well as social media groups that are dedicated to housing in London, Ontario. However, it is also important to be on the lookout for scams, which are more prevalent on social media groups such as Facebook or Instagram. If you are looking for an apartment or condo, ensure the company that advertises the listing is legit by doing a quick Google search. This simple step can save you a lot of trouble.
Consider University Resource (For Students)
If you’re a student, universities like Western University and Fanshawe College often offer resources and services to help students find off-campus housing. To check out your options, browse the university website for rental listings, housing boards, and information on student-friendly neighborhoods. Housing events are also a good way to find accommodation since universities sometimes host these events to help students meet landlords and find roommates.
Review Lease Agreements Carefully
It is extremely important to carefully review a lease agreement before signing. A lease agreement is like a rulebook for your rental, it tells you and your landlord what you can and can’t do while you live there. Take your time to read through it so you know exactly what you’re agreeing to. Look at things like how much rent you have to pay, when it’s due, and how long the lease lasts. Also, be sure to check if there are any extra fees or rules about things like pets or guests.
3. Access Essential Services
Ensure that you have access to essential services like banking, healthcare, and legal services upon arrival. It is important to research local healthcare providers in London, open a bank account, and make sure that you are aware of all legal requirements for newcomers. This also makes you feel confident and prepared as you start your new life in London. Here are some key things to have in place:
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is a high priority since emergencies happen spontaneously. You need to know exactly where to go for healthcare services, especially when moving to a new area or country. The first step is to do research; find out about local clinics, hospitals, and emergency services in your area. Always have this information handy, just in case.
Banking
Each bank has its advantages and disadvantages, do some research before opening a bank account and consider which banks are close to you. Consider the services offered and the fees they charge. Banks such as the Toronto Dominion (TD) have special incentives and opportunities for newcomers to Canada who use their services.
Legal Assistance
If you need legal help, there are many options if you need to get legal support. Look for legal clinics, community organizations, or government organizations that offer free or low-cost legal services. They can also help you with things like understanding your rights as a newcomer to Canada, dealing with landlord-tenant problems, or getting help with immigration matters.
4. Embrace the Culture
The city of London is rich in culture and history; there are museums, galleries, theaters, festivals, and other major tourist attractions littered throughout the city, so it’s hard to get bored. Take advantage of everything the city has to offer, especially since these attractions are available at an affordable price. Visit the museums, check out the local art or spend a day at the park, London is called the Forest City for a reason! Here are some ways to get started:
Attend Cultural Workshops
London offers cultural workshops where you can learn about traditions, music, dance, and much more. Take advantage of opportunities for cooking, language, and craft workshops offered by community centers and various organizations. This can be a fun way to learn new things and connect with people who you can identify with.
Volunteer and Get Involved
Consider volunteering for local organizations such as animal shelters, homeless shelters, or even help out at a children’s camp. Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and meet people who share your interests and passions. Whether you decide to help out at a food bank, plant trees in a park, or help with organizing a charity event, every action makes a difference and is a significant contribution.
Use Social Media
If you’re trying to get more social, what better way than to use social media! Search for Facebook groups, Twitter hashtags, and Instagram accounts dedicated to London or even your neighborhood so that you can always stay in the loop. Additionally, many community organizations host virtual events and webinars that you can attend from the comfort of your home. Don’t forget to share your voice! Social media platforms are a way for you to share your thoughts and experiences with others in your community.
Settling into a new country is no simple feat; you’re essentially starting a whole new life. Nevertheless, London, Ontario is an awesome city to begin anew with a space for every newcomer to fit in and feel welcomed. Understanding how to get life up and running can be challenging but there are resources that can make the process quicker and easier.
At Berhan Immigration, we are committed to helping newcomers like you settle in Canada so that you feel at home. Whether you’re already here or planning to come soon, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Welcome to Canada! We’re thrilled to have you here. If you even need assistance or have any questions, reach out to us!
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