Whether you have recently immigrated to Canada, or you’re an international student these money management tips will help you build a foundation for financial success. From opening a bank account to filing your first income tax return, discover why these money tips for newcomers are important. Learn how you can carefully manage your money, especially during your first few months in Canada!
Top10 Money Management Tips for Newcomers
1. Get a Social Insurance Number
Obtaining a Social Insurance Number (SIN) is one of the first money management steps to take when you arrive in Canada. A SIN is vital because it allows you to work in Canada. Your SIN also gives you access to government programs and financial benefits that serve to put money back in your pocket. Ideally, you should apply for your SIN within your first week of arriving in Canada.
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Your SIN is confidential and you need to carefully protect it to avoid things like identity theft and financial fraud.
2. Open a Bank Account
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Opening a bank account at a local bank will allow you to manage your finances better and avoid significant transfer fees from your accounts back home. Pick a bank close to your home or work for convenience, and, it is a good idea to set up online banking as well.
You can open chequing and savings accounts immediately and walk away with a debit card.
Credit is an essential part of your financial success in Canada. You will need a good credit history to get a loan or a mortgage, and sometimes to rent a home or obtain a job. With a good credit history, you may be able to obtain lower interest rates on loans for large purchases such as buying a car, or your first home in Canada. Lower interest rates can save you thousands of dollars over the term of the loan.
Getting a credit card in Canada requires either a previous credit history or a deposit that will protect the lender in case you fail to pay your bill. This is also known as a secured credit card. A credit card may also come with incentives such as travel rewards, cash back on purchases, air miles, or a welcome bonus for newcomers. However, you’ll still have to practice good money management habits with a credit card. Things like charging more than 30% of your credit limit can damage your credit score and work against you financially.
You can apply for provincial health insurance for yourself and your family as soon as you arrive. Application forms are available at immigrant settlement agencies, doctor’s offices, hospitals, and pharmacies. In some provinces such as British Columbia, Quebec, and New Brunswick, you may have to wait up to three months before you can access the provincial health insurance plan. During the waiting period, you may want to purchase private health insurance to protect yourself from unexpected medical expenses. Learn more about insurance for newcomers in Canada.
5. File an Income Tax Return
If you live in Canada for even a short portion of the current tax year, it’s vital to file an income tax return. Doing so will allow you to access benefits that put money back in your pocket. For example, you may be eligible for the Canada Child Benefit, the Goods and Service Tax (GST) benefit, and many other benefits. If you need help filing your first income tax return, settlement agencies can help you get started.
A vital money management tip, especially during your first few months in Canada, is to assess your monthly expenses and spend wisely. Until you find a full-time job, your finances will be unstable. While exploring your new city, take a tour of the nearby supermarkets to get an idea of prices for basic items. Also, be sure to locate discount supermarkets for cost savings that can help you manage your money.
Compare different cell phone and internet provider plans and special offers. And, be sure you understand any contract requirements before you sign it. Ask the provider to explain unclear details and do not feel pressure to sign the contract until you are ready.
There are several free online budget trackers, such as this money finder calculator to help with money management.
No doubt, you researched living costs before you arrived in Canada. But, when in Canada, you’ll know the actual costs of rent, utilities, insurance, and other expenses. A budget that tracks your income and expenses will identify where you are spending your money and give you greater financial control. Your rent is likely to be the largest portion of your monthly budget.
8. Access Low-cost and Free Goods and Services to Manage Your Money
While it is tempting to start your new life with shiny new items, it is not always financially smart. Visit free websites such as Kijiji.ca or Facebook Marketplace for free or low-cost items. Immigrant settlement organizations can direct you to places where you can access furniture donations. In large buildings, renters who move out often place ads to sell their furniture at affordable prices.
Checking out garage sales and yard sales is a national pastime in Canada! This cost-saving money tip can save you money on household items and other goods. Also, library cards are free and allow you to borrow books and save on entertainment. Everywhere you look, you’ll find opportunities to manage your money and reduce costs, you just need to take advantage of them.
9. Shop Wisely with These Money Tips
Get into the habit of shopping wisely! Use coupons, avoid customer traps such as extended warranties, apply for customer loyalty cards at major stores, and resist the lure of special offers on items you don’t need. Explore neighbourhood produce and butcher shops because sometimes they offer lower prices.
10. Shake Off Bad Money Management Habits
Paying bills on time is a smart way to manage your money and boost your credit score in Canada.
Often, newcomers experience a state of excitement similar to that of tourists on holiday. While it is fine to enjoy your first weeks in Canada, the reality is that you are not on holiday, so avoid spending like you are. A new start in Canada is a great chance to develop good money management habits and get rid of bad ones. Whether it’s sticking to a budget, or paying your bills on time, now’s the time to start fresh and manage your money wisely.
These financial tips will help you manage your money, lower stress, and build a strong financial foundation in Canada.
Halloween is one of Canada’s most anticipated holidays. Occurring every year on October 31, kids, adults, and even family pets look forward to celebrating Halloween. This year kids will go Halloween trick-or-treating on Tuesday, October 31. For newcomers, Halloween traditions may be unfamiliar especially if you come from a country that does not celebrate this holiday. Find out what you can expect this year, from common decorations and costumes to safety tips for a happy Halloween!
What is Halloween?
Widely associated with haunted Halloween props and silly costumes, Halloween was first celebrated by the ancient Celts living in Ireland almost 2,000 years ago. Since then, Halloween has evolved to become the holiday we know and love today. Although Halloween is not a public holiday, it is the second-largest commercial holiday that Canadian children and adults look forward to.
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The ancient Celts believed that October 31 was the only time of year when spirits from the underworld could enter the world of the living. These spirits were believed to be unfriendly to human beings and could bring the living back to the underworld. Because of this, people started dressing as spirits on the night of October 31 so that returning spirits wouldn’t bring them any harm.
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Around the late 1800s, immigrants brought Halloween to Canada. And over time, people started wearing funnier and less scary costumes for Halloween. Now, Halloween is viewed as a day to gather with family and friends and overall, have a great time. It has become an iconic holiday that Canada and many countries around the world celebrate. However, some things make Halloween unique and set it apart from other holidays.
Here are some of the most popular Halloween traditions in Canada:
Halloween Trick-or-Treating
Halloween in Canada is not complete without trick-or-treating. Kids delight in planning their costumes, dressing up, and spreading haunted Halloween vibes in neighbourhoods across Canada.
But wait…what is trick-or-treating? Trick-or-treating is a common tradition that starts around dusk and continues until around around 8:30 p.m. on October 31. During this time, children go door-to-door in their neighbourhood, wearing Halloween costumes and carrying baskets, hoping to receive treats. If a neighbour opens their door, the children yell, “Trick-or-Treat!”, and the neighbour gives each child a piece of candy.
Children yell “Trick-or-Treat” in Halloween costumesand hope to receive treats!
Adults take this time to gather with friends and family and hand out candy to passing children. Some even like to dress up in costumes or set up haunted Halloween props near the front door to give children a little fright before handing out candy.
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If you’re passing out candy, you can fill a large bowl to hand out to any trick-or-treaters that come to your door. A trip to the grocery store or even the dollar store is a good spot to pick up some affordable treats. But remember, only give out candy that is in sealed packages. For hygiene and safety, it’s best to avoid giving out homemade or loose candy. Parents typically don’t let their children eat any candy that is not safely packaged. You should also inspect the treats that your child gets before you let them eat any, just to be on the safe side.
However, some people do not celebrate Halloween in Canada for various reasons. So, you may choose not to participate. If you would like to avoid trick-or-treaters appearing at your door, you can simply turn off your front door house lights.
It is impossible to miss Halloween in Canada. Around mid-October 31, people start decorating the front of their homes and yards and this becomes a common sight in many neighbourhoods. For home and yard decor ideas, stores like Canadian Tire can help you create a haunted Halloween mood for your house.
Jack o’ lanterns are one of the most iconic Halloween decorations. You also don’t need to buy them from a shop because they are very easy to make at home! A jack o’ lantern is a hollowed-out root vegetable, usually a pumpkin, in which you can place a candle. People like to carve faces on the pumpkin to make it look scary or funny.
During the night, when the candle is lit inside the pumpkin, the jack o’ lantern will be just what it sounds like, a lantern. If you carve a face into the pumpkin, candlelight will go through the carvings, making a really cool effect. If you don’t want to go out and buy Halloween decorations, jack o’ lanterns are a great way to show your holiday spirit.
Halloween decorations can be anything that looks spooky. Witches, ghosts, and skeletons are common decorations that you’ll see in people’s front yards.
Trick-or-Treating Halloween Costumes
While you can always expect to see children dressing up in spooky costumes, which is a classic choice, other costumes are downright cute and adorable. Superheroes, princesses, animals, there is no limit to creative Halloween trick-or-treating costume ideas.
Babies, children, adults, and even family pets look forward to Halloween!
Whether you choose to buy a costume, or get creative and make one with supplies from your local dollar store, there are plenty of ideas to consider. But, also keep your child’s safety in mind to ensure a happy Halloween!
On October 31, children can wear simple costumes to school. However, schools may have guidelines that your child will have to follow. You may even see adults wearing Halloween costumes in the office for the day.
HappyHalloween Trick-or-Treating Safety Tips
While kids of all ages love to dress up on Halloween night, it’s important to remember both costume and traffic safety tips for an extra safe Halloween:
Costume Safety Tips:
Ensure all costumes. wigs, and accessories are fire-resistant
Add reflective tape to costumes and bags so children are visible after dark
Use makeup over masks so that children have greater visibility
Accompany your children if they are under 12 years old.
Traffic Safety Tips During Trick-or-Treating Hours:
Watch for children walking on roadways
Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully
Watch for children in dark clothing
Avoid driving on Halloween if you are a new or inexperienced driver.
With these treat-or-treating tips, you and your children are sure to enjoy a very happy Halloween!
Are you interested in a truck driving career in Canada? With a current shortage of about 20,000 truck drivers, it’s a high-demand occupation in Canada. Truck driving is an exciting career within a $67 billion industry and is essential to the country’s economy. To respond to the truck driver shortage, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) created a new transportation category and process for Canada’s Express Entry program. This focus on candidates with transport experience, including commercial truck drivers, will make it easier for you to immigrate to Canada. The new selection process also helps Canada to invite newcomers with driving experience to fill labour gaps and ensure the success of the transport sector. This overview provides information to research job requirements, learn about a truck driver salary in Canada, and much more!
Improve your English or French language skills (depending on your destination province). You will need to prove your language competency or be tested.
Take language classes while you’re in your home country and continue them when you arrive in Canada.
Research wage and compensation information to learn how much you can expect to make.
Research Canadian trucking companies and learn about the industry in Canada.
What to Expect When Pursuing a Transport Truck Driver Job in Canada
It’s vital to know what you need to work as a truck driver. In Canada, you’ll need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). And employers usually require:
High school completion
Driver training from an accredited vocational school or community college.
A Class 3 or D license to drive straight-body trucks
A Class 1 or A license to drive long combination vehicles
Air brake endorsement (Z) to operate vehicles equipped with air brakes.
Canadian employers will also provide on-the-job training.
How to Obtain a Commercial Driving License in Canada
To get your CDL, you have to take driver training and meet the minimum age requirement in the province where you want to live. Generally, the minimum age to obtain a CDL in Canada is 18. However, in some provinces such as Ontario and Quebec, you must be 21. You will also have to pass a:
Medical exam to ensure you are physically fit to operate a commercial vehicle
Knowledge test that covers driving laws, traffic signs, and safe driving practices
Practical driving test that assesses your ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
Employment Outlook for Truck Drivers in Canada
According to Transport Canada, over 350,000 people work in the country’s trucking and logistics sectors and most are truck drivers. Even so, the Government of Canada Job Bank, predicts a labour shortage from 2022-2031. This means there will be job opportunities for newcomers with the right skills, experience, and qualifications.
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Start Your Research with the Transport Truck Driver NOC Code 73300
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) provides a general overview and standard definition of truck driver jobs in Canada. The five-digit NOC code 73300 applies to drivers such as:
Bulk goods truck driver
Flatbed truck driver
Heavy truck driver
Long haul truck driver, and more.
You can review this information to understand the main duties and transport driver job requirements.
Communication Skills Required for Trucking Jobs in Canada
Truck drivers need to be excellent drivers, but they also have to have strong communication skills. Foreign truck drivers require a minimum of Level 7 Canadian Language Benchmark score (CLB 7) in a language proficiency exam. Canadian employers look for friendly and assertive drivers who can communicate with customers and clients, dispatchers, and others.
You may need to upgrade your skills, including your soft skills for trucking jobs in Canada.
Language Training in Canada
Having strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages, English or French, is important for your success. Whether you choose to focus on improving English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you live.
You may be eligible for the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Or you can find other free or affordable classes in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) classes through local school boards or settlement agencies.
Truck Driver Training Programs in Canada
Some colleges in Canada offer truck driving program, or you can attend a program that private companies offer. However, be sure to verify that the program is government-approved to that you’re eligible to apply for your truck driving license once you graduate. Here are some accredited truck driving schools:
Trucking associations can be a valuable resource to help you advance your truck driving career. The following associations provide information, education programs, training materials, and webinars to help truck drivers stay informed about the ever-changing trucking industry in Canada.
The truck driver salary in Canada is based on your experience, qualifications, and the province where you work. On average, truck drivers make about $24.00 per hour (national average., according to Government of Canada Job Bank information. The average base salary is about $61,468. But, the yearly truck driver salary varies based on where you live in Canada. In addition to yearly salary, truck drivers can also earn additional cash compensation and bonuses.
Long-haul truck driving typically pays the highest rates because of the extended hours on the road to cover large distances.
Transport Driver Salary in Canada
The provincial median wages are higher in Alberta, British Columbia, Northwest Territories, Saskatchewan, and Yukon Territory. Here are the most recent wages for transport drivers across Canada (click on the links in the table to see wage information by provincial regions.)
Best Provinces to Work as a Transport Driver in Canada
You can find transport driver jobs in most provinces and Canadian cities. However, the truck driver shortage is the greatest in Saskatchewan and it has the highest number of trucking jobs per capita of any province. Canada’s biggest provinces including Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, and British Columbia also have many trucking jobs available. You can explore job prospects by province or territory to determine where to find the greatest demand for drivers.
Pursuing a Transport Driver Career in Canada
Canada offers different jobs to licensed truck drivers within two broad categories:
Long-haul drivers
Regional drivers.
Long-haul drivers transport goods between provinces and across the Canada-U.S. border. They usually drive across Canada and further distances than regional drivers. For those with international truck driving experience, long-haul driving is a great opportunity to explore Canada’s different regions and cultural differences.
Regional drivers transport goods from one city to another within the province. A benefit for regional truck drivers is that they usually are not away from their families for long periods. In fact, most regional drivers can return home each day, allowing for more time to spend with family and a greater work-life balance.
Truck drivers are the backbone of the global supply chain and driver
Trucking Companies in Canada
According to the Canada Trucking Alliance, There are about 4,500 carriers, owner-operators, and industry suppliers.
Some of the top trucking companies in Canada include:
Bison Transport (based out of Winnipeg with terminals in Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, and Alberta.
Mullen Trucking Corp (based out of Adrie, Alberta)
Maritime Ontario (based out of Brampton, Ontario with terminals in Newfoundland, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec.)
In addition to transportation companies, truck driver jobs are also available in manufacturing, distribution and moving companies, and trucking employment service agencies. Truck drivers can also be self-employed.
How to Find Your First Transport Driver Job in Canada
Searching for a job in Canada may be different than how you would search in your home country. So, you may need help with your job search. Fortunately, there are settlement services to help you search for jobs, update your resume, write cover letters, and prepare for job interviews.
Here are additional tips to search for trucking jobs in Canada:
Broaden your search and include cities across Canada
Join job-finding or networking groups through settlement agencies.
Attend career/job fairs, info sessions, and related conferences.
Browse online job boards to understand job requirements and current skills that employers are seeking.
Networking and building relationships with others will play an important role when searching for a job in Canada. So, take advantage of opportunities to network with others in the trucking industry. For example, when taking driving training, participate in class discussions and build relationships with classmates and instructors.
Networking plays a crucial role in learning about the trucking industry in Canada and tapping into job opportunities. Often, many companies do not advertise job vacancies, so networking is an effective way to tap into this ‘hidden job market.’ Connecting with others in the trucking industry will help discover jobs in the hidden job market.
Conferences, association events, and job fairs are great places to network and meet others in the trucking industry.
LinkedIn is another valuable tool for networking. It allows you to reconnect with former colleagues and employers, search for companies and job openings, and receive introductions to others in the field.
When networking, it’s better if you avoid asking directly for a job. However, if your contacts are aware of any job leads, they will likely share that information with you. Your network can serve as a valuable resource to learn about job vacancies.
When crafting your resume, it’s helpful to keep the needs of hiring managers in mind. Your resume should demonstrate your strong driving track record, time management skills, customer service skills, and technical skills and licenses.
Consider these resume writing tips to showcase your qualifications and stand out as a strong candidate:
Highlight both your technical skills and soft skills such as teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.
List relevant skills such as technical repair knowledge, and relevant licenses
Ask someone to review your resume and provide constructive input.
Here are some examples of phrases that you might include in your resume:
Completed regular truck maintenance, and created and updated a daily mileage schedule to improve vehicle reliability by 45%
Operated commercial vehicles for long-haul deliveries, maintaining an accident-free record across 100k+ km
Ensured all pick-up, delivery, and vehicle condition reports were completed in an accurate and timely manner.
Recorded routine truck and equipment maintenance, to reduce the risk of injury or malfunction.
Organized deliveries with manufacturers and supervisors to ensure cost-effective and efficient delivery.
Driving a truck is a demanding job and can be stressful. Employers will want to assess your work history and safe driving skills. In addition, employers look for drivers with strong customer service skills and value the importance of road safety. You can expect to answer some of the following questions:
Describe your experience as a commercial truck driver. Your response can include any special licenses you have, the number of years that you have been driving, the distances you travelled, and any incidents that you had.
How do you maintain a safe driving environment? Your response can include driving practices that you follow to ensure that you drive safely. You can also talk about how you keep up with safe driving procedures.
How would you handle a major problem with a shipment? Your response can include how you responded to a shipment problem that you had in the past, and what actions you took to resolve it. This is also an opportunity to highlight your customer service skills, and your ability to deal with stressful situations.
Transport driver jobs are key to manufacturing, agriculture, and mining industries and linking Canadian businesses with the world. With a current shortage of about 20,000 drivers, trucking in Canada is a high-demand occupation. And, with an understanding of job requirements, career options, and a truck driver salary in Canada, this could be a great opportunity for you!
Interested in learning more about working in Canada? Check out our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. We can help you achieve your career goals!
Are you interested in continuing your software developer career in Canada? The IT industry in Canada is robust and expanding. With its reputation as a technology leader, Canada stands out as one of the best countries globally for building a software developer career. Software developers are a high-demand occupation in Canada. In May 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) included this STEM occupation in Canada’s first-ever launch of category-based selection for Canada’s Express Entry system. There is a plethora of job opportunities available, and software developer salaries are attractive. This helpful overview provides information to help you research the profession, understand software developer job requirements, explore salaries in Canada, and more!
Typically, most software development positions in Canada require a university degree or college diploma, coupled with relevant work experience in a specialized field. While most software jobs are not regulated in Canada, many employers do require professional IT and software certifications, depending on the specific job requirements.
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One of the great aspects of working in software development is the openness of Canadian employers to hire immigrants and newcomers. To ensure your eligibility, it is crucial to follow the appropriate steps.
How to Immigrate to Canada as a Software Developer
Before You Move to Canada to Pursue a Software Developer Career
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The steps to secure a software developer job in Canada vary depending on your chosen career path. So, it’s vital to research the specific requirements for the job you aspire to. For instance, if your goal is to work as an app developer, you should research job requirements for software app developers in Canada.
To enhance your chances of finding a software developer job in Canada, there are general steps you can take even before your arrival:
Improve your English or French language skills (depending on your destination province). You will need to prove your language competency or be tested.
Take language classes while you’re in your home country and continue them when you arrive in Canada.
Understand how to practice your job in Canada and become familiar with the laws and legislation that govern it in the province where you will settle.
Know the name of your job in Canada and learn about the specific software developer job requirements in Canada.
Look into certification requirements and skill development options if you need to upgrade.
Research software developer salaries and compensation information.
Research Canadian companies and join software development groups on LinkedIn to learn about the industry in Canada.
What to Expect When Pursuing a Software Developer Career in Canada
In Canada, there are many software developer career paths with distinct qualification requirements. So, it’s important to understand how your international qualifications meet Canadian standards. Additionally, gaining insights into the Canadian labour market and workplace culture is important. Understanding the job market and employment outlook will help you to set realistic job search expectations.
Employment Outlook for Software Developer Jobs in Canada
Over 200,000 people work in software development in Canada. Even so, according to the Government of Canada Job Bank, they forecast a labour shortage from 2022-2031. This means there will be job opportunities for newcomers with skills, experience, and qualifications.
Start Your Research with the Software Developer NOC Code
The National Occupational Classification (NOC) provides a general overview and standard definition of software developer careers in Canada. The five-digit NOC code 21232 applies to:
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Software developers
Software programmers
Software development project managers
Application programmers
E-business software developers
Multimedia developers
Interactive media developers
Computer game developers
You can review this information to understand the main duties and employment requirements.
Use the NOC 21232 to research software developer job requirements in Canada.
Requirements to Become a Software Developer in Canada
To work as a software developer in Canada, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software development, app development, computer systems engineering, or software engineering. Alternatively, completion of a college program in computer science may also be accepted. In some cases, employers may require candidates to hold a master’s or doctoral degree in a related field. However, if you plan to work as a software engineer, you must be a Professional Engineer (P. Eng.) and obtain a license to practice from a provincial or territorial association of professional engineers. Software engineers belong to a regulated profession in Canada.
Credential Recognition to Meet Software Developer Job Requirements in Canada
There are several agencies in Canada that assess international education credentials to help newcomers access education and employment opportunities. In Canada, software developers belong to a non-regulated profession in Canada. However, some employers may require specific IT certifications to be eligible for software developer jobs.
If you want to apply to a college or university to upgrade your skills, you may need an education evaluation. But, before you pay for an education evaluation, contact the school that you’re applying to and find out what steps to follow and what credential assessment agency to use. Some schools request that you use a specific agency. So taking this step can save you time and money.
It’s vital to emphasize your international education and skills for an education evaluation. Expand upon your existing knowledge and abilities and thoroughly explore university and college options before deciding if further education is necessary. Leverage your international credentials and experience to seek credit or course exemptions. You may have the opportunity to gain advanced standing, transfer certain credits, and benefit from prior learning assessment options. These avenues will enable you to complete your program faster, and avoid unnecessary expenses for education you have already completed.
Credential Assessment Services
Some of the assessment credential services in Canada include:
Upgrading Your Skills to Meet Software Developer Job Requirements
You may need to upgrade your skills, especially your soft skills, to meet software developer job requirements in Canada.
Canadian employers look for friendly and assertive professionals with strong communication skills. They also look for people who will fit into their workplace culture and will become leaders over time. In the IT field, they expect employees to have a strong understanding of the business in addition to the technical aspects of the job. They encourage employees to upgrade their existing skills and acquire new skills.
Language Training for Software Developers in Canada
Having strong skills in one or both of Canada’s official languages – English or French – is important for career success. Whether you choose to focus on improving English or French will depend on which of the two languages most people speak in the area where you live.
You may be eligible for the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program. Or you can find other free or affordable classes in English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) classes through local school boards or settlement agencies.
Bridging Programs for Software Developer Careers in Canada
Bridging programs help people with international software development education and experience meet Canadian industry qualifications. Here are some newcomer bridging programs to explore:
Continuing your education is a great way to progress in your career in Canada. And, many Canadian colleges and universities offer software development programs. These schools offer software development programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels:
Professional associations can be a valuable resource to help you advance your software developer career. The following associations provide information about licensure and certification and offer professional development, education, and networking opportunities.
create a forum to contribute to and enrich their respective communities; and
provide opportunities for their members to find meaningful employment and achieve their professional goals.
These networks offer mentoring, information sessions, professional development, workshops, speaker events, and connections to jobs. Here are a few examples:
Hispanotech.ca: They bring together Hispanics in Canada’s technology markets, help them enter the workforce, and recognize their contributions to the technology field.
For information, tools, free webinars, and more visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals in Canada!
How Much Do Software Developers Make in Canada?
Software developer salaries can vary significantly based on your level of experience, job title, and location. According to the Government of Canada Job Bank, the median hourly software developer salary is $40.38. The median software developer salaries can range from $23.60 to $58.97 per hour.
Software Developer Salary in Canada
Alberta has the highest earning potential. Your hourly software developer salary could be up to $64.90 per hour. British Columbia and Ontario also have hourly software developer salaries that can reach $60 or more. Here are the most recent software developer salary numbers in Canada (as of November 2022):
Best Provinces to Work in Canada as a Software Developer Based on Salary & Lifestyle
Like other IT careers, you can find software developer jobs in most Canadian cities, however, the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa offer the highest concentration of jobs. One potential advantage of working in software development is the opportunity to work remotely.
Other cities to consider for software developer jobs include, Markham, Kitchener-Waterloo, Montreal, and Vancouver. Montreal is the heart of the gaming industry in Canada and Vancouver has many companies in the commercial/entertainment development sector. Markham is the second-largest tech cluster in Canada.
Pursuing a Software Developer Career in Canada
To continue your software developer career in Canada, there are many avenues to explore, provided you possess the academic credentials, work experience, and a clear plan to work in your desired location.
Some of the top software development companies in Canada include:
Altus Group
Shopify
OpenText Corporation
CGI Inc.
Descartes Systems Group Inc.
Constellation Software Inc.
Hootsuite
Prodigy.
You can also learn about Canadian companies by visiting Canada’s Best Diversity Employers website. These employers have been recognized for diversity, inclusion, and equity programs in the workplace.
How to Find Your First Software Developer Job in Canada
How you search for a software developer job will change based on your chosen career path. The job market in Canada is competitive for software developer careers. Here are tips to help you find your first job in Canada.
Job Search Techniques for Software Developers
You may need help with your job search, especially since finding a job in Canada may be different than in your home country. Fortunately, there are settlement services to help you search for jobs, update your resume, write cover letters, and prepare for job interviews.
There are many ways to search for software developer jobs in Canada:
Broaden your search and include cities across Canada, alternative careers, and companies outside the sector, as most will have IT departments.
Join job-finding or networking groups in the software development sector through settlement agencies.
Attend career/job fairs, info sessions, and related conferences.
Browse online jobboards to understand job requirements and current skills that employers are seeking.
Networking plays a crucial role in finding jobs and gaining insights into companies and the IT industry in Canada. Often, many companies do not advertise job vacancies, so networking is an effective way to tap into this ‘hidden job market.’ Connecting with fellow software developers can help you discover jobs in the hidden job market.
Conferences, association events, and social mixers are great venues to network and meet other professionals, build relationships, and exchange information.
LinkedIn is another valuable tool for networking. It allows you to reconnect with former colleagues and employers, search for companies and job openings, and receive introductions to professionals in the field. Joining relevant software development groups and participating in group discussions can further expand your network.
When networking, it’s better if you avoid asking directly for a job. However, if your contacts are aware of any job leads, they will likely share that information with you. Your network can serve as a valuable resource to learn about software development jobs in Canada.
Informational Interviews Can Help You Learn About Software Developer Job Requirements
Initiate contact with people who work in software companies and organizations that align with your career interests. Politely inquire if they would be open to connecting you with someone in the company who works in your field of expertise. Once connected, reach out to that individual, and request to meet with them at their convenience.
By meeting with others in the industry, you’ll expand your professional network, gain valuable insights into their company, and develop your understanding of software job requirements in Canada. It’s important to note that the purpose of an informational interview is not to secure a job, but rather to assess whether a specific position or employer aligns with your skills, experience, and interests.
An informational interview with a contact from your network can serve as a valuable source of career information. In addition to gaining insights about the software development industry, you will also benefit from their firsthand work experiences and guidance for your career path.
Resume Writing Tips
When crafting your resume, it’s helpful to keep the needs of hiring managers in mind. Your resume should demonstrate your ability to participate in project planning activities, collaborate effectively within a team, and engage in peer reviews to achieve common goals.
Additionally, emphasize your ability to design, develop, and release software updates for products. Consider these resume writing tips to showcase your qualifications and stand out as a strong candidate:
Highlight both your technical skills and soft skills such as teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.
List relevant skills such as database design, Linux, software development, HTML, JavaScript, and technical support.
Ask someone to review your resume and provide constructive input.
Here are some examples of phrases that you might include in your resume:
Develop and analyze technical designs and requirements to fulfill functional specifications.
Review programming code to ensure adherence to software development standards.
Adapt to evolving technologies by acquiring and applying new methodologies to achieve organizational objectives.
Provide technical support to maintain network and application stability, and promptly address user issues.
Interview Techniques for Software Developer Jobs in Canada
Software developers have diverse roles and can work in many fields, which means that preparing for a software development job interview will depend on the specific position you are seeking.
When applying for software developer positions, employers expect candidates to have relevant experience and demonstrate their software development skills. This may involve presenting a portfolio of your work as part of the application process. This is a good strategy to set yourself apart from other candidates and showcase your skills and accomplishments in a tangible way.
In addition to bringing your portfolio to the interview, you can also provide the interviewer with a link to your portfolio beforehand. This allows the interviewer to review your work in advance, fostering a deeper understanding of your capabilities. During the interview, you can discuss your portfolio projects and achievements and highlight your expertise and suitability for the position. Highlighting your practical experience and technical expertise can enhance your chances of securing a job offer.
Interested in learning more about working in Canada? Check out our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. We can help you achieve your career goals in Canada.
Having an extra day off from time to time is important to rest, have time to yourself, spend time with family or do other tasks. These extra days off are known as statutory holidays (or ‘stat’ or ‘public’ holidays) in Canada. During these holidays, most people have a day off from work or school. As a newcomer, it’s good to know the calendar of events and dates so that you can plan for them.
What is a Statutory Holiday in Canada?
Much like in your country of origin, there are several public holidays that Canadians celebrate. A stat holiday observes different cultural, national, and religious holidays. Some of these days are national holidays. However, there are also holidays that only some provinces observe.
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During a ‘stat holiday’ most employees can take a day off of work and still receive their regular pay. In most provinces, when a statutory holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the vacation day will usually fall on the following workday. Most stores and banks are closed on stat holidays, and there is no mail service.
StatHoliday Long Weekends
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Some of the statutory holidays in Canada including Family Day, Victoria Day, Canada, and Thanksgiving mean long weekends where people plan special activities. For Family Day in February, many people plan weekend getaways to ski resorts or enjoy other outdoor activities such as skating or tobogganing. Family Day is also a great chance to take in many of Canada’s winter festivals.
Victoria Day marks the unofficial arrival of summer in Canada. And people look forward to barbeques with friends and family, watching fireworks displays, or heading to a cottage or campground.
Canadians celebrate Canada Day on July 1. So the holiday can fall on any day of the week. For example, if July 1 falls on a Saturday or Sunday, people will take either the proceeding Friday or the following Monday as the holiday. Or, if July 1 falls on a Thursday, many people will take another vacation day on Friday to enjoy an extra-long weekend! Canadians look forward to big parties, parades, concerts, fireworks and so much more in cities and towns all across Canada!
Labour Day is another long weekend. This holiday is bittersweet for Canadians. It marks the unofficial end of summer and the return to school for kids. During this stat holiday in Canada, people will take in fall festivals, hikes along nature trails, or sneak in one last visit to the beach!
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National Statutory Holidays in Canada
These are holidays that Canadians in all provinces and territories observe:
HOLIDAY
DATE
New Year’s Day Celebrates the first day of the calendar year
In addition to the national holidays, there are other statutory holidays that many provinces (but not all) will observe.
HOLIDAY
DATE
Family Day Promotes spending time with family. It’s also known as Louis Riel day in Manitoba Islander Day in Prince Edward Island, and Heritage Day in Nova Scotia
Third Monday in February
Easter Monday Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus
Occurs on the Monday after Easter and usually falls between March 23 – April 26
Victoria Day Recognizes the birthday of Queen Elizabeth. In Quebec, it’s called National Patriots Day
The last Monday in May
Civic Monday
Occurs on the first Monday in August
National Day for Truth & Reconciliation Honours survivors of Canada’s residential school system (holiday is observed in British Columbia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, the Northwest Territories, the Yukon, and Nunavut).
For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle in Canada successfully.
