New to Toronto? Your first 10 steps
From your SIN and bank account to your health card and a family doctor: a simple checklist for your first weeks.
In this guide
Week one
1. Social Insurance Number (SIN) — you need it to work. Apply through Service Canada.
2. Bank account — most big banks offer newcomer packages. Bring ID and proof of address.
3. Phone number — you'll need a local number for sign-ups, your bank and your doctor.
Month one
4. Ontario health card (OHIP) — visit ServiceOntario with your status documents and proof of address. Check requirements on the official site first.
5. A family doctor — register with Health Care Connect, and search IrooniMap for Farsi-speaking doctors accepting new patients.
6. Presto card — for the TTC, buses and GO trains.
7. Renting — read Ontario's Standard Lease before you sign. Farsi-speaking realtors and lawyers can help.
After that
8. Driver's licence — exchange rules depend on the issuing country; check DriveTest for current information.
9. Credit history — get a simple credit card and pay it in full every month.
10. Find your people — from accountants to Persian bakeries, they're all on IrooniMap.
This guide is general information, not official advice. Rules change; always check official government sites.
This guide is general information, not legal, medical or financial advice. Always check official details on the relevant agency's website.