Top 5 Tips for New Canadian PRs: What I Wish I Knew

5 Things I Wish I Had Known Before Moving to Canada as a Permanent Resident

Moving to Canada as a permanent resident (PR) is a dream come true for many, and I was no exception. I landed in early 2022, eager to start a new chapter in the Great White North. As a PR, I knew I’d be able to live, work, and study anywhere in the country, enjoy access to essential social benefits, and even apply for citizenship down the road.

But as you probably guessed, not everything went as smoothly as I had hoped. There were a few curveballs I didn’t see coming—and now that I’ve had time to reflect, I want to share the top five things I wish I had known before taking the leap.

Key Highlights

• Canadian summers can be just as intense as the winters—pack accordingly!
• Free settlement services are available across Canada to help you integrate faster.
• Joining meetup groups and community events is a great way to build your social and professional networks.
• You don’t need to spend a fortune on winter gear—buy smart, not brand-name.
• Immigration rules can still affect you after getting PR, so staying informed is key.

1. Canadian Summers Can Be Just as Harsh as the Winters

Like most newcomers, I arrived in Canada fully braced for the cold. I’d read endlessly about snowstorms, frostbite, and how to survive a blizzard. But what I didn’t prepare for was the summer heat.

Depending on where you settle, Canada’s weather can change dramatically. While Vancouver tends to stay relatively mild year-round, places like Toronto—where I landed—can swing from -7°C in January to over 30°C on scorching summer days.

Let’s just say I regretted giving away my summer clothes before moving. So if you’re packing your bags, make sure you bring weather-appropriate gear for all seasons—you’ll need it!

2. Settlement Services Are Free and Hugely Helpful

One of the best surprises after my arrival was discovering Canada’s free settlement services. These programs are funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and they’re designed to help newcomers adjust to Canadian life. They cover everything from housing and healthcare to job searching and language support.

I only connected with one of these organizations after a friend insisted I check them out—big mistake waiting that long. They helped me:

• Polish my resume to align with Canadian job market standards
• Understand what employers are really looking for
• Prep for interviews and build my confidence

There are even programs tailored to women, youth, Francophones, and newcomers who want to improve their English or French. Some services are available before you even land in Canada, through pre-arrival programs.

So if you’re new or planning to come soon, check out our settlement services page or connect with local organizations in your province or city. It’s free support, and it can truly make a world of difference.

3. Meetup Groups and Events Are Key to Building Connections

Canada can feel a little isolating at first—especially if you arrive during the winter months. With fewer spontaneous outings and colder weather, it’s easy to feel like making friends will be a challenge.

But don’t worry—Canadians are a social bunch, and there are plenty of ways to plug into your new community. Meetup groups, sports leagues, cultural associations, and professional networking events run year-round in many cities. Some are even created specifically for newcomers.

Not only did these events help me make friends, but they also helped me build a solid professional network in a country where I previously knew no one. IRCC’s settlement portal even includes services for connecting with your local community, which is a great starting point. And don’t forget to check out locally funded programs in your province or municipality as well.

4. Winter Staples Don’t Have to Break the Bank

Before my first winter, I assumed I had to buy the most expensive jacket and boots just to survive. Honestly? That’s where I almost blew my budget.

Yes, winter gear is important—but you can stay warm without spending a fortune. Here’s what I learned:

• Get one quality winter jacket. A warm parka with a hood does the trick for most places.
• Buy one solid pair of winter boots. Look for waterproofing and insulation.
• Layer smart. Thermals, gloves, wool socks, and a warm toque go a long way.

Pro tip: Focus on features, not logos. A no-name jacket with proper insulation and wind resistance can outperform a fancy brand-name jacket without the right specs. And you don’t have to buy everything at once—build your wardrobe gradually based on the weather in your region.

5. Your Immigration Journey Doesn’t End with PR

It’s a common misconception that once you get permanent residency, you’re in the clear. While PR status is a huge milestone, there are still rules and policies you need to be aware of.

For instance, IRCC recently shortened the validity of visitor visas from 10 years to just 1–2 years. That can seriously affect family members who want to visit for important life events. Similarly, programs like the Parents and Grandparents Program have long wait times, with some applicants from 2020 still waiting for invitations today.

Here’s what else you should know:

• To keep your PR status, you must live in Canada for at least 730 days in the last five years.
• Misrepresentation is serious. Giving incorrect or incomplete information—even by accident—can lead to being deemed inadmissible or having your status revoked.

So stay informed, keep track of your residency days, and when in doubt, consult a qualified immigration professional. If you’re applying through specific programs like the Manitoba PNP, understanding their specific requirements is crucial too.

Final Thoughts

Moving to Canada as a permanent resident is a life-changing experience, but it comes with its own set of surprises. Whether it’s the weather, the immigration policies, or the small cultural adjustments, it pays off to go in prepared.

Hopefully, these lessons I’ve learned can help make your transition smoother and a little less stressful. You’ve already taken the brave step of starting fresh in a new country—now make sure you’re setting yourself up for success every step of the way.

Need help planning your next move, or have questions about your immigration status? Connect with a trusted immigration representative for personal guidance.

And if you’re still exploring your options, check out our resources on settlement services, immigration pathways, and the Manitoba PNP to get started on the right foot.