Have you just arrived in Quebec to work, or are you about to? The first few weeks are busy: you need to settle in, take care of several administrative steps and start a new job. Here are the steps to plan for, in order, so you can get off to a good start.
In your first few days
Get your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
A SIN is essential to work and be paid in Canada. You can apply through Service Canada, online or in person, with your work permit or proof of permanent residence. Apply for a SIN.
Your SIN is confidential: share it only with your employer and with government agencies that request it.
Register with the RAMQ
The Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) covers health care. Permanent residents and workers holding a work permit valid for more than six months can generally register.
Please note: a waiting period of up to three months applies to most newcomers. During this time, your health care is not covered. Register as soon as you arrive and take out temporary private insurance for those first months. Some people are exempt, notably through agreements with France and Belgium. Check your eligibility with the RAMQ.
Open a bank account
Your employer will pay your salary by direct deposit. The major banks and Desjardins caisses offer packages for newcomers. Bring your passport and your work permit or your confirmation of permanent residence.
Get a Canadian phone number
Employers and government services will contact you by phone. A Canadian mobile plan will also spare you roaming charges.
In your first few weeks
Find housing
In Quebec, most apartments are rented with a one-year lease, often running from July 1 to June 30. The lease must be written on the mandatory form of the Tribunal administratif du logement (TAL). Read it carefully before signing. The TAL also informs tenants about their rights. Visit the TAL website.
A landlord cannot require a security deposit or more than one month's rent in advance.
Driving in Quebec
You can drive with your foreign licence for the six months following your arrival. After that, you need a Quebec licence. If your country has an agreement with Quebec, such as France, Belgium or Switzerland, you can generally exchange your licence without taking an exam. Otherwise, the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) will tell you which exams you need to pass. Book your appointment early. Visit the SAAQ website.
Get ready for winter
Plan on a warm coat, waterproof boots, a toque and gloves before the cold arrives, often as early as November. If you have a car, winter tires are mandatory in Quebec from December 1 to March 15.
Making your integration a success
Learn or improve your French
French is the official language of Quebec and the language of work in most businesses. The Government of Quebec offers free French courses to people aged 16 and over who live in Quebec: full-time, part-time, online or in the workplace. Financial assistance is available for some immigrants. Discover the French courses.
If you are a temporary worker, be aware that your level of French may count toward the renewal of your authorizations after a few years in Quebec. Starting early is a good investment.
Get your diplomas and your trade recognized
A comparative evaluation of studies completed outside Quebec shows how your diplomas correspond to the Quebec system. For a regulated occupation, contact the professional order or the responsible body. Request a comparative evaluation.
Understand your pay
Several amounts are withheld on your pay stub: federal and provincial income tax, the Quebec Pension Plan, employment insurance and the Quebec Parental Insurance Plan. This is normal. In the spring, you will need to file two tax returns: one for Canada and one for Quebec.
Build your network
Organizations that help newcomers offer free support, job workshops and activities to meet people. The ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI) can direct you to those in your region. At work, don't hesitate to ask your colleagues questions: most will be happy to help.
Your first-days checklist
- Social Insurance Number
- RAMQ registration and private insurance for the waiting period
- Bank account and Canadian phone number
- Housing and a lease on the TAL form
- Driver's licence: exchange or SAAQ appointment within six months
- Enrolment in French courses
- Winter clothing
How 2AF can help you
- 2AF Solutions RH supports the workers it recruits abroad, from preparing for departure through to arrival and integration into the company. 2AF holds foreign worker recruitment licence AR-2303085.
- Recru2af.com lets you find a job in your field, even if you have just arrived. Create your profile and upload your résumé.
- Alex, the 2AF assistant on WhatsApp, answers your questions about job offers, registration and next steps.