Just moved to Toronto? Newcomer guide
Phone and SIM card
Prepaid and monthly plans are sold by carrier stores and many retailers. Bring ID. Compare plans, as prices in Canada vary a lot.
Official source: CRTC – phone and internet
Bank account and SIN
Banks need ID such as your passport and immigration papers. Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work and file taxes.
Official source: Canada.ca – Social Insurance Number
Health card and doctors
Apply for OHIP, Ontario's health plan, as soon as you arrive. Health811 gives free nurse advice by phone. Emergency: 911.
Official source: Ontario – apply for OHIP · Health811
- Genisis Medi Clinic 創世醫美 创世医美
Health & medical · 324 Highway 7, Richmond Hill - Quanfu Zhou Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture Clinic
Health & medical · 212 Bathurst Street, Toronto, M5T 2R9 - Chinatown Optical
Health & medical - Hu Chun Tang Chinese Herbs
Health & medical · 558 Dundas Street West, Toronto
Getting around
Use a PRESTO card, or tap a contactless card or phone, on the TTC subway, streetcars and buses.
Schools
Register with the Toronto District School Board or Catholic board for your address.
Official source: Toronto District School Board
Chinese grocers and food
Large Asian supermarkets and Chinese bakeries are easy to find here. Browse our grocery and restaurant listings for this city.
- Tone Tai Supermarket 鼎泰超市
Grocers & food shops · 3030 Don Mills Road East, Toronto, M2Z 3C1 - Food Depot Supermarket 泰锦
Grocers & food shops · 3331 Sheppard Avenue East, Scarborough - 大統華 T&T Supermarket 大统华
Grocers & food shops · 5095 Yonge Street, Toronto, M2N 6Z4 - H Mart 韩亚龙
Grocers & food shops · 703 Yonge Street, Toronto, M4Y 2B2 - 大統華 T&T Supermarket 大统华
Grocers & food shops · 7070 Warden Avenue, Markham, L3R 5Y2
Settling in
The Government of Canada lists free settlement services, including language classes and job help. Emergency number: 911.
Official source: Canada.ca – new immigrants