Settling-in Tips from Staff at Crown Calgary

What is special or unique about your city?

Edmonton is a city that offers visitors many choices for indoor and outdoor activities throughout our four seasons. Discover new sights along with tried and true visitor favorites such as shopping, sports, arts and culture, dining, recreation and a wide variety of world-class attractions.

Known as Canada's Festival City, we're noted for a calendar full of annual events and festivals celebrating jazz, folk, symphony, theatre, dance, visual arts, street performers, food and fun for every member of the family.

Choose from dozens of theatres, art galleries, wander throughout our spectacular river valley and stroll though eclectic historic districts.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

People from across Canada and around the world have made Edmonton their home, and our communities reflect a remarkable realm of diversity. The energetic economy will attract you, but it’s all the hidden and the not-so-hidden charms that will make you fall in love with this city.

Are these impressions likely to change?

If you decide to move to Alberta you can count on the hospitality of Albertans. We are friendly people and very supportive of newcomers. Alberta provides a lot of programs to help new immigrants start a new life. Our province is multicultural and has a number of established cultural and ethnic groups. They provide support and assistance to newcomers and make them feel welcomed and at home.

What is the local language?

English is the dominant language of Edmonton. However, as both English and French are the official languages of Canada, all federal government services are available in either language.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

It is possible to live in Edmonton and not know English, but you will find that majority of service providers and retailers speak English. It is recommended that you learn some basic English to avoid major challenges as well as be able to take advantage of everything that Edmonton has to offer.

Weekly and daily newspapers are published in a variety of languages, and OMNI (local television station/channels) offer programs, news broadcasts and movies for different ethnic groups in their native languages. The Government of Canada provides free information in English, French and may also provide information in your own language.

If you are traveling in other areas of Canada, here are a few French words and/or phrases to help you:

English	French
Hello or Good Morning	Bonjour
Goodbye	Bon au revoir
How are you?	Comment as tu?
My name is …	Mon nom est …
Thank you	Merci
No, thank you	Non, merci
Excuse me	Je m’excuser

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

The best way to avoid offending residents of Edmonton is to abide by the Alberta Human Rights & Citizenship Commission.This is the provincial law that provides everyone with equal rights and opportunities in specific areas such as jobs, housing and services. Please see the Useful Links below for further information on this law.

Some tips to avoid offending residents of Edmonton are:

� Canadians usually hope that visitors will recognize how different their country is from the United States.
� Canadians quickly move to a first-name basis, although you should wait until you have been invited to do so.
� The order for Canadian names is first name, middle name and last name.
� A firm handshake makes a very good first impression.
� Keep a distance of several feet when talking to another person. Canadians like their personal space.
� Do not show emotion in public.
� It is okay to use the "OK" sign and the "thumbs up" sign, but the "V" sign with the palm inward and pointing with your index finger are considered offensive.
� Holding doors open for the person behind you is appreciated and often expected.
� Being punctual should be a priority especially for business-related meetings. However, being 15 minutes late (and no later) for an evening social engagement is acceptable.
� Some professions allow for casual dress, but if you are not sure then dress on the formal side.
� Canadians in general do not wear any type of scent in a business setting. Perfume, aftershave and heavily scented personal care products such as shampoo and hair spray should be avoided.
� It is considered rude to speak in a foreign language in the presence of others who do not understand what is being said.
� If you see someone you know at a distance, a wave is an appropriate acknowledgement.
� People using the ATM machines expect the next person waiting in line to stand a few feet behind them.

In Alberta, the Smoke-Free Places Act was passed on May 10, 2005 and became law January 1, 2006. In its amended form, the act restricts smoking in any public place and workplace where minors are allowed. With the exception of the streets, you will find that smoking is restricted in most public places. In private homes, you should always ask permission from your host.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Summer temperatures in Edmonton are warm enough to enjoy the sunshine but not so warm that they are uncomfortable. There is virtually no humidity in the area which means that the heat is a pleasant heat, even during the warmest months of July and August; the average high temperature for both months is 22�C (72�F), with temperatures overnight dropping to 12�C (52�F).

In Autumn, though the nights can get chilly at this time (6�C or 43�F in Sept., 0�C or 32�F in Oct., the days are still nice (17�C/63�F in Sept., 11�C / 52�F in Oct.). The beautiful changing colors of the trees in the area can make up for any nighttime weather discomfort. Winter comes to the area relatively early in the year, with the first frost hitting the ground overnight in late September. Snow begins sticking on the ground as early as the end of October or beginning of November. It gets increasingly cold through the end of February and the snow stays on the ground until some time in April. This may be good news for skiers who say that the best thing about the area is that there are several months of thick snowfall but the days themselves are generally sunny.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

Edmonton is a city that offers people an abundance of services, community activities, and attractive living accomodation. We are the capital city in the province of Alberta, and the Alberta provincial government operates in Edmonton at the Alberta Legislature building.

Edmonton is also home to the world's largest shopping mall, West Edmonton Mall. Here you can also visit the largest indoor amusement park called Galaxyland, and experience 25 thrilling rides and attractions.

For hockey fans, the Edmonton Oilers are our own National Hockey League team with five Stanley Cup trophies under their belt. There are always games to attend in this sports city, including soccer, baseball, football (north american), lacrosse, rugby and a wide variety of community sport leagues.

Useful Links

Informaton on Edmonton
www.edmonton.ca
www.festivalcity.ca
www.edmonton.com

Alberta Human Rights Commission
www.albertahumanrights.ab.ca

Information on Canadian Weather
www.theweathernetwork.com

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada
www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/publications/welcome/wel-22e.asp

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

Every year, more than 35 million people visit Canada to enjoy the many opportunities our country has to offer. Depending on where you live, and the reason for your visit, you will need to meet certain entry requirements. In some cases, if you plan to stay in Canada for an extended certain period of time, you will need a Temporary Resident visa.

For a complete list of countries whose citizens are required to have visas before entering Canada, or for those who are visa-exempt, please visit the citizenship and Immigration Canada page or contact Crown Calgary for more information.

What kinds of visas are available?

There are two types of visas:
� Permanent visas -- for workers and their families who are moving to Canada permanently.
� Temporary visas -- for workers, visitors and students who will be residing in Canada for more than six months, but not permanently.

What is required to obtain these visas?

Many visa offices have specific local instructions about what documents you need to submit with your application. Consult the list of Canadian visa offices abroad to find the office responsible for your country and be sure to include all that is required.

Click here to download the application kit.

Read the guide carefully before you complete the application form. The fee for processing your form is nonrefundable, so ensure that you are eligible for a Temporary Resident visa before applying.

The same application form may be used for your spouse or common-law partner and for dependent children under 18, if they will be traveling with you.

All required documents must be included with your application:

� You must have a valid travel document (such as a passport) for each family member on the application.
� Two recent passport photos of each family member are required. Make sure these photos meet the requirements. For more information on specifications for photographs, see the "Related Links" section at the bottom of this page.
� Enclose the application fee and the IMM 5401 receipt of payment. Your fee will not be refunded, even if your application is not accepted.
� You must provide proof that you have enough money for your visit to Canada. The amount of money may vary, depending on the circumstances for your visit, how long you will stay and whether you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives. You can get more information from the Canadian visa office in your country or region.
� You may need to include other documents. These can be identification cards, proof of employment, a letter of invitation from relatives or friends in Canada, or a proposed itinerary. Check the Web site of the visa office responsible for the country or region in which you live, for more information.

The fee per person is $75 for a single entry visa, $150 for a multiple entry visa or $400 for a family (multiple or single entry).

Check the Web site of the visa office responsible for the country or region where you live for more information on fees, including how to pay them.

You might need a medical examination to be allowed to enter Canada. If you do, a Canadian immigration officer will inform you and send you instructions on what to do. A medical examination can add more than three months to the processing time of your application.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

If your spouse or common-law partner wants to work while in Canada, they will need to apply for a separate work permit. Normally, they must meet the same requirements that you did, including (if needed) the labour market opinion (LMO) from Human Resources and Social Development Canada. However, they might qualify for a work permit without an LMO.

For your spouse to apply for a work permit without an LMO, you must meet the following conditions:

� Be authorized to work in Canada for six months or longer.
� Be qualified to work in a field that meets a minimum skill level (usually work that would require at least a college diploma). Specifically, your job must be listed in Skill Level O, A or B in the National Occupational Classification.

If you meet these two requirements, your spouse may apply for a work permit that is “open” and that will allow him or her to accept any job with any employer. Your spouse’s permit will be valid for the same period that your authorization to work in Canada is. Spouses or partners may apply for their work permit from within Canada.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

One of the first things you should do after arriving in Canada is apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN). You must have a social insurance number (SIN) to work in Canada. You may pick up an application form for a SIN at your point-of-entry to Canada. You can also download the form from the Human Resources and Social Development Canada Web site, listed below. When you receive your SIN card, make the number available to your employer.

As a temporary resident, your main form of identification is your passport. Although you may not need a passport to travel within Canada, you should carry at least two pieces of identification whenever possible. Common forms of recognized identification include birth certificate, driver’s license, permanent resident papers or citizenship card, credit cards and SIN card.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

Settling in will be much easier if you contact an immigrant-serving organization upon arrival. The people who work for these organizations can help you find a place to live and answer questions about shopping, schools, transportation, language training and other important matters. Contact Crown Calgary for a list of these organizations.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

There are strict laws about what you can bring into Canada.

Cars must meet Canadian safety and pollution-control standards. Many cars are not allowed into the country. Contact Transport Canada for more information before you ship your car.

Transport Canada, Vehicle Importation
330 Sparks Street, Tower C
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0N5

Telephone: 1 (613) 998-8616 when calling from outside Canada or 1-800-333-0371 when calling from inside Canada.

The following items cannot be brought into Canada:

� Firearms, explosives, fireworks and ammunition.
� Narcotics, other than prescription drugs;
� Meat, dairy products, fresh fruits and vegetables.
� Plants, flowers and soil.
� Endangered species of animals or products made from animal parts, such as the skin, feathers, fur, bones and ivory.
� Cultural property, including antique and cultural objects considered to have historical significance in their country of origin (you may, however, bring family heirlooms).
� More than 200 cigarettes (you must pay tax on any excess amount) per person over 18 years of age if you are immigrating to Quebec, Alberta, Saskatchewan or Manitoba, or per person over 19 if you are immigrating to Ontario or any of the other province.
� More than 1.5 litres of wine or 1.14 litres of commercial alcohol (you must pay tax on the excess amount) per person over 19 years of age.

If you are not sure about an item, you can write to, or call:

Canada Border Services Agency
Customs, Excise and Taxation
Information Services
2265 St. Laurent Boulevard
Ottawa, Ontario K1G 4K3

Telephone: (506) 636-5064 or (204) 983.3500 (when calling from outside Canada), or 1-800-959-2036 when calling from inside Canada.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

Depending on your personal situation and length of stay, you should consider taking some or all the following important documents with you to Canada:

� Birth certificates or baptismal certificates
� Marriage certificates
� Adoption, separation or divorce papers
� School records, diplomas or degrees for each family member traveling with you
� Trade or professional certificates and licenses
� Letters of reference from former employers
� A list of your educational and professional qualifications and job experience (resum�)
� Immunization, vaccination, dental and other health records for each member of the family
� Driver’s license, including an International Driver’s Permit, and a reference from your insurance company
� Photocopies of all essential and important documents, in case the originals get lost (keep separate from the originals)
� Car registration documents (if you are importing a motor vehicle into Canada)

Useful Links

Canada Border Services Agency
www.cbsa.gc.ca

Canadian Customs and Revenue Agency
http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/

Citizenship and Immigration Canada
www.cic.gc.ca

Human Resources Development of Canada
www.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/sin-nas/

Social Insurance Number: Frequently Asked Questions
www.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/sin-nas/a040_e.shtml

Transport Canada, Vehicle Imporation
www.tc.gc.ca (follow the link to Vehicle Importation)

Visa Information
www.traveldocs.com/ca

What is the local currency?

The local currency is the Canadian Dollar. There are 100 cents to one dollar.

What denominations does it come in?

� Notes: The Canadian Dollar is available in $5, $10, $20, $50, $100.
� Coins: All Canadians Coins are the same size and shape as their American counterparts except for the one and two dollar coins which do not exist in the U.S. Coins come in 1, 5, 10, and 25 cent denominations, and the $1 and $2 bills have been replaced by coins.

Note: American coins can be used in Canada, but you will not get any exchange for them. They are in wide circulation, so you will get them in change on occasion. American coins will also work in most vending machines.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

Banks provide you with the best exchange rate on your foreign currency since their rates are updated each minute. There are also money-exchange booths that will exchange your currency at the rate that was listed at opening time. You may also notice that your hotel or temporary accommodations have services for exchanging money at the reception desk. These places should be used only when your options are exhausted, as they tend to provide lower exchange rates because they factor in a service fee on each dollar.

If you are unable to, or do not want to, exchange your money, then your other option is to pay for goods and services with credit or debit cards. Almost all stores and service providers accept this form of payment. Each purchase will automatically convert to Canadian dollars, which will be shown on your statement.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Depending on the location, stores will accept cash, traveler's cheques, major credit cards and debit cards (personal banking cards used to purchase goods and services). Most stores do not accept personal cheques as payment.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Credit cards that are widely accepted include Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.

However, only recently has it been possible to pay with credit cards and debit cards in fast food restaurants. Some are still making the transition to this form of payment. In addition, when visiting the downtown core, you will notice numerous street vendors selling merchandise and food. These vendors have limited payment options. Therefore, it is always good to keep a little cash on you at all times.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Depending on the bill type, several options for bill payment are available to you. They include:

� Cash
� Personal cheques
� Traveler’s cheques
� Automatic personal bank account withdrawal set up prior to the payment date(s)
� Debit card (personal banking card)
� Credit card

Additionally, most payments can be done by mail or at your local bank.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

When opening a bank account in Canada, you will be required to do the following:

� Fill out an application form.
� Provide two forms of identification (passport, birth certificate, Social Insurance Card and/or any credit cards in your name).
� Provide proof of residency (you will need a fixed home address before you apply).

Also, depending on the circumstances, the bank may "hold funds" from your account for a period of time to ensure that you are not a financial risk.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

Typically, banking services are offered in English, but are also available in French at certain branches as well as on many bank Web sites. As Edmonton is home to many different nationalities, there is a good chance that a representative at your bank may speak the language of your home country.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

Not generally, but this may vary from bank to bank.

What are typical banking hours?

Banks are typically open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. At some banks, there may be a day during the week in which they stay open until the early evening. It is recommended that you check with your local bank to find out their exact hours of business.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

ATMs are located everywhere in the city and can be accessed 24 hours per day. However, be aware of high service charges for using ATMs that are not affiliated with your bank.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Bear in mind that using debit cards for purchases can be costly due to service fees for each transaction.

Credit cards offer postponed payment at the cost of interest incurred on your outstanding balances. Normally the interest is in the range of 17 percent to 20 percent. If you plan on keeping a balance, you can opt for a lower monthly interest rate, but you will have to pay an annual fee for this service. In addition, department stores offer discounts and incentives for purchasing items with their store credit cards. However, the monthly interest charges for these cards can be as high as 30 percent.

Useful Links

Currency Converter
www.xe.com

CIBC
www.cibc.com

Royal Bank
www.royalbank.com

Canada Trust
www.td.com

Scotiabank
www.scotiabank.com

Bank of Montreal
www.bmo.com

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Greater Edmonton has a population of just over one million people, and the city is one of the largest in Canada, when judged by land area.

When choosing an area of the city to live in, it is good to consider lifestyle, access to shopping and transit, and education. Please refer to the links below for further information on Edmonton's neighborhoods and people services.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

Newcomers to Edmonton are concentrated in the following areas: Beverly, Bonnie Doon, Calder, Capilano, Castledowns, Clareview, Downtown, Jasper Place, Kaskitayo, Lake District, Londonberry, North Central, Mill Woods, Riverbend, Southgate, University and West Jasper Place.

Detailed demographic profiles of every neighborhood in Edmonton, including crime rates, amenities, etc., can be found below under the heading "Useful Links."

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Typically, expats rent their homes if their stay is for a short duration. However, those with longer durations may decide to purchase a home. Some companies prefer that a transferee rent rather than buy, if only for the first year, to ensure the family will feel comfortable in the selected area.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

In most cases, it is expected for you to pay first and last month's rent prior to moving in. Beyond that, your lease will clearly state the cost of rent per month, along with whether or not this includes your utilities. The lease also states the length of the occupancy in the property (generally one year), how payment is to be made each month, which appliances are included (if any) and (if applicable) whether or not parking is included.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

When renting a home, utilities are not typically included in your tenant contract. However, in condominiums and apartments, some utilities are included in your leasing contract.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Alberta’s communities are among the safest in Western Canada.

The Edmonton police force serves the city, providing prompt community policing as well as enforcement of the law (traffic, crime, etc.). Police foot patrols, police stations located in the community, emergency response teams and a police helicopter look over the neighbourhoods to keep them safe.

Generally speaking, the police aim to involve community cooperation in creating a safer society, and seek to include representatives of Edmonton’s diverse cultural, ethnic and language groups to better serve all Edmontonians. You may also wish to participate in a volunteer-run Neighbourhood Watch program that trains members of the community in crime prevention and to report crimes.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

The electric current in Canada is 120/240 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 60. Below are examples of the types of plugs that are used in Canada:

Note: In the U.S. and Canada, two-blade plugs are often polarized, with one blade larger than the other. Most outlets are designed to handle these. The larger blade is the neutral side of the current. This is a safety feature intended so the plug can be inserted one way only to reduce the chance of accidental shock. If you try to put a modern plug into an old-style receptacle for equal size blades, it won't go in unless you file down the larger blade to the older plug size. Outside the U.S., many countries with Type A use the old-style plug, and a newer U.S. plug with unequal pins might pose a problem. This can be bypassed using an adaptor (found in many travel kits) which converts the newer Type A plug to the older model with equal-sized blades. Be aware, though, that you might also be bypassing the protection that polarization provides.

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

If you are interested in a particular property, you will be required to complete a preliminary application. At that time, you may be asked to include a letter from your current place of employment on company letterhead. This should indicate your salary, job status and length of employment. In addition, you may also be required to provide a letter of reference from a former landlord stating something to the effect that you paid your rent on time and were a good tenant. You may also be required to provide your Social Insurance Number for credit reference, along with personal reference numbers.

Useful Links

Edmonton Transit System (operated by the City of Edmonton)

Edmonton Federation of Communities

Edmonton Neighborhood Profiles

Living in Edmonton

Safe Edmonton

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Most children attend public, separate, francophone or charter schools which are part of the public education system. The following are some basic features of different types of schools:

� Public schools provide basic, universal education.
� Most separate schools are Roman Catholic schools. In some areas of the province, they are Protestant schools.
� Parents whose first language is French and who want their children educated in the French language can enroll them in Francophone schools.
� Charter schools offer more choice in education programs, teaching methods or learning environments than may be offered in the regular school system. Charter schools follow the Alberta Programs of Study and students are required to write provincial achievement tests and Grade 12 diploma exams.

These schools are funded in part through taxes that homeowners must pay to local governments as well as provincial government revenues, so parents do not have to pay tuition fees. However, parents may have to pay fees for things such as transportation, textbook rentals or art supplies. Some of those fees are paid when the child registers as a student.

For families who do not have enough money, school districts have an appeal process where parents can request that they do not pay the fees. Parents who choose to home-school their children may do so entirely or in part, but they must meet the requirements of the School Act and home education regulation.

If you choose to send your child to a private school, you will have to pay some or all of the costs. Before registering your child in a private school, it is important to find out what the costs will be and if students in the school will earn credits toward an Alberta High School Diploma. Private schools set their own standards for enrolment, often based on a belief in a particular religious faith or educational philosophy.

Schools send report cards home at least twice a year to show how well each child is learning. Parent-teacher interviews, open houses and school council meetings give parents opportunities to meet teachers and learn more about school activities, class assignments and teacher expectations. Many problems can be solved or avoided altogether by learning as much as possible about your child's school.

For more information about Alberta's education system, see the Alberta Education Web site, in the Useful Links section below.

What are some examples of these schools?

There are many great public, private and charter schools that are well-established in Edmonton. Edmonton is proud of the commitment to students demonstrated by community schools. Each student has a designated community school, depending on where they live.

As Edmonton is home to more than 200 schools, it is recommended that you do research on the program choices, particular subject matter or language instruction that is most appropriate to your child's particular needs.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Public schools are completely funded by the government through tax revenue. Therefore, there is no competition for spots in local public schools.

A predetermined grid of Edmonton depicts the ward you live in and the area in which your child may attend school. In contrast, private schools often require that you fill out an enrollment application. Some schools may also require a school interview, which includes a parent, the child and the school head, accompanied by the child’s portfolio for enrollment. Since many private schools have waiting lists, it is recommended that you contact the school of your choice as soon as you arrive so you are able to obtain a spot on the list.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Private and public elementary schools offer programs for students aged 5 to 18. Private preschools for younger children are also available. See Useful Links below or for further assistance or information contact Crown.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

School buses/vans are used to transport students to and from home.

When does the typical school year start and end?

The typical school year is from September to mid-June. School hours are typically between 8:30 or 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 or 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please contact your child's school for specific hours.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

If you need more information about schools, please contact Crown with any questions or for school-search assistance.

Useful Links

Alberta Government -- Ministry of Learning

List of schools: pre-school to 12 grade