Cold winters, warm welcomes: How newcomers can settle in Canada

IELTS
Published: May 11, 2021

It’s well known that immersing yourself into the local community and culture is a great way to become fluent in a country’s language.

So, it also makes sense that the more welcoming the destination, the sooner you’ll master the language. That’s why Canada, with its immigration-friendly policies and people, is such a wonderful place to build your new life and English skills side by side.

Explore your neighbourhood

The winters may be cold, but a warm welcome awaits you in Canada, which is well-known for its polite citizens and a welcoming attitude to new arrivals. So, don’t be afraid to start a conversation. Meet your neighbours, chat to the staff in local shops and cafes, and if you have kids, bond with other parents at the school gates. Plenty of chances to practice your English and a great way to get insider tips on your new area.

Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to meet people and integrate into your new community, and it offers a relaxed, informal environment to try out your speaking skills. There are organizations that always need a hand and there are lots of different ways to offer your support, from helping with fundraising to administrative tasks. To find available opportunities, the Volunteer Canada website is a good place to start.

Take an evening class

Another good way to meet people while having some fun is to sign up for an evening or hobby class. There are lots of providers and subjects, and evening classes can easily fit in around work or study schedules. You could learn pottery, painting, take a cooking class, or brush up on your computer skills, all while getting to know some like-minded individuals.

Join a ready-made community

Making new connections can take a while when you move to a new country, so why not take advantage of existing networks and join a local group, club or organization? Community centres are often hubs for book clubs and neighbourhood groups. A quick online search should tell you what’s available in your area, and take a look at local notice boards too.

Make use of Canada's welcome programs

Canada has some very supportive initiatives in place to welcome people from abroad. In fact, it’s ranked fourth in the world for the friendliness of its immigration policies and leads the way in championing integration, so make the most of what’s on offer. From government-funded language classes to a large network of specialist immigrant-serving organizations (ISOs), there are plenty of resources to help you settle in and start to feel at home.

Learn more about how IELTS can help you on your language journey 

Get your language journey off to the best start

If you decide to come to Canada and get involved in even a fraction of the ideas above, you won’t be short of chances to talk to people, so being prepared for all those conversations is a good move.

IELTS is an English language test that’s designed to do exactly that. Its face-to-face Speaking test is one of the key reasons millions choose the test every year. By simulating a real conversation, it helps you develop the kind of everyday language skills you’ll need whether you’re working or studying.

Plus, IELTS gives you all kinds of preparation materials to help you get ready for your test – including free sample tests, IELTS Progress Check, a practice test marked by our qualified markers and a range of videos to help you improve your English language skill.

Book your IELTS test now

Share this article
Share your voice
Did you find this article helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Did you find this article helpful?
Please provide a response
Thank you for your helpful feedback
Please contact us if you would like to share additional feedback, have a question, or would like Canadian immigration assistance.
  • Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
  • Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at media@canadavisa.com
Related articles
Can I Still Receive a Credential Evaluation if I Already Live in Canada?
Why Do Some Institutions Require a Credential Evaluation?
Woman on Laptop
New to Canada? You may be eligible for government-funded settlement services
Two women planting plants in a community garden as part of a newcomer community event
Canada unveils new permanent residence pathway for French speakers
A group of young people looking at a camera in the middle of a city on a bright day
Top Stories
What is Express Entry’s tie-breaking rule and how does it work?
PNPs grapple with slashed provincial immigration targets
Canadian passport holders now require an eTA to travel to the UK
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Canada
Canadian passport holders now require an eTA to travel to the UK
A person rolls a bright yellow suitcase in a well-lit airport set terminal
What is Pierre Poilievre’s stance on immigration?
Pierre Poilievre speaks to a crowd of people.
Marc Miller announces further measures to enhance border security
A picture of the Canadian and American flags on either side of the border crossing between Canada and the US
How workers on closed work permits can change employers while awaiting a decision on a new work permit
two people shaking hands, one dressed in professional attire
Link copied to clipboard