Daily Life

You have many things to do - big and small - to settle into your new home and life in Ontario. In this section, find answers to common questions about daily life in Ontario.

Transportation

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Communication

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Seniors

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Consumer Protection

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Personal Finance

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Insurance

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Shopping

  • Where can I do my shopping?

    There are different types of stores in Ontario, which carry and specialize in various products. Stores may be part of a chain or franchise. While others are independently owned.

  • How do I pay for my purchases?

    Most stores accept a variety of payment methods. Make sure you have a type of payment the store will accept before you start your shopping.

  • How can I save money shopping?

    There are many ways to save money, such as buying second-hand, looking for deals and using free services.
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Life Events

  • What is foster care?

    There are times that a child cannot remain at home with their parent or caregiver because of serious safety concerns, this is when a child will enter the foster care system.

  • What options do I have for adopting a child?

    Adopting children happens for different reasons; regardless of your reason, there are steps to take if you are planning on blending and growing your family.

  • Newborn Screening Ontario

    This multilingual document provides information on newborn testing. All babies in Ontario are tested for rare disorders in order to reduce the possibility of health problems later in life.

  • Do I need a will?

    Your will gives you control over your estate after you die. You can make sure that certain people get certain parts of your estate. This is important for valuable and sentimental property.

  • How can I get a divorce in Ontario?

    The law about divorce in Ontario is the same as everywhere else in Canada. You do not have to be a Canadian citizen to apply for a divorce, but there are certain criteria you must meet.

  • What are my rights if I get separated or divorced?

    When you separate or divorce from your spouse, you may have a right to economic support or property. Your rights depend on different things, such as whether you were legally married or in a common-law relationship, and if you have children.

  • How does divorce affect my immigration status?

    Generally, you do not lose your immigration status because of divorce. You may need to seek legal advice about your specific situation.

  • How do I get a marriage licence?

    In Ontario, you must get a marriage licence before you get married. You can apply for a marriage licence at municipal offices and city halls.

  • Will the Canadian government recognize my foreign marriage?

    Generally, your foreign marriage will be recognized by the Canadian government, if the marriage is legal according to the laws of the place where it occurred, and if it complies with Canada's federal laws on marriage.

  • How do I change my name after I get married?

    After you get married you have the option to change your last name, also known as family name or surname, to your spouse’s last name.

  • What financial assistance is available for seniors?

    Many seniors in Canada get income through federal programs. Most programs have a minimum age limit, usually between 55 - 65.

  • What should I know before adopting a pet?

    Many animal shelters and humane societies are seeing an increase in pet adoptions. There are a few things that you should consider before you join the trend and adopt a furry friend.
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Families & Children

  • What financial assistance is available for childcare?

    Childcare can be very expensive and costs vary depending on where you live, and the type of care provided. Infants are generally more expensive than older children and sometimes there is a discount for siblings.

  • Questions to Ask a Child Care Provider

    It can be difficult to find appropriate child care. These questions can help you research child care providers and find one that suits you and your child’s needs.
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