Settling-in Tips from Staff at Crown Calgary

What is special or unique about your city?

Vancouver is the largest city in the province of British Columbia. It is surrounded by water on three sides and is nestled along the Coast Mountain Range. Vancouver is home to spectacular natural scenery, a bustling metropolitan core, and boasts one of the mildest climates in Canada. It is consistently ranked one of the three most livable cities in the world and the Greater Vancouver region is home to more than two million people in 21 municipalities, making it the third largest metropolitan area in Canada.

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

Newcomers to Vancouver will find the city a beautiful place with awesome views of the mountains. The people are friendly and the city is much bigger than most people expect.

People from all around the world visit Vancouver, which is famous for its beautiful, natural setting and its many parks (approximately 190). The city's combination of economic opportunity and environmental appeal has caused many to make Vancouver their home.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Because a lot of the beauty and attraction of Vancouver lies in its geographic location and physical state, not many of its characteristics will change.

What is the local language?

A majority of the population speaks English as either a first or second language, but many departments of the federal government provide services in both English and French.

The city is quite cosmopolitan and is a mix of many multicultural groups. Because of this, it's also unofficially multilingual. Its people speak many different languages and many follow the traditions of their native lands, sometimes moderating them with Canadian culture.

After English and Chinese, the most common mother tongues spoken are Punjabi, German, Italian, French, Tagalog (Filipino) and Spanish. More than half of Vancouver's school-age children have been raised speaking a language other than English.

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

It is possible to live in Vancouver and not speak English, but you will find that a majority of service providers and retailers use the language. It is recommended that you learn basic English to avoid major challenges and to be able to take advantage of everything that Vancouver has to offer.

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

If you are traveling in other areas of Canada, here are a few French words and 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 Vancouver is to abide by the British Columbia (BC) Human Rights Code. This is the provincial law that allows everyone equal rights and opportunities in specific areas such as jobs, housing and services. Please see the Useful Links section, below, for further information on this.

Some tips to avoid offending residents of Vancouver are:

� Canadians hope that visitors will recognize how different their country is from the United States and others.
� Canadians quickly move to a first-name basis, although you should wait to be invited to do so.
� The order for Canadian names is first, middle 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 OK to use the "OK" and "thumbs up" sign, but don't point with your index finger or use the "V" sign.
� Holding doors open for the person behind you is appreciated and expected.
� Punctuality should be a priority for business related meetings, but being 15 minutes late (no later) for an evening social engagement is acceptable.
� Some professions allow for casual dress, but if you are uncertain about a particular establishment, 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 it.
� If you see someone you know at a distance, a wave is an appropriate acknowledgement.
� People using ATM machines expect the next person waiting in line to stand a few feet behind them.

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?

Vancouver is warmed by the Pacific Ocean currents and protected by a range of mountains. It enjoys mild temperatures year-round--from high 70's Fahrenheit (low 20's Celsius) in summer to a mild mid-40s Fahrenheit (0� to 5� Celsius) in winter, the climate is always hospitable. The winters are wet, but it rarely snows in Vancouver, except on the local ski hills.

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

Vancouverites love the outdoors, but they also enjoy indoor events so, entertainment is plentiful and suits varied tastes. The city is very safe and has the mildest climate of any major city in Canada; so much so, that even palm trees can grow here. It rains a lot in winter, but the temperature rarely goes below freezing. Its Chinese heritage makes the city come alive during Chinese New Year.

Useful Links

Vancouver.com
A Guide to Vancouver

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 the 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 period of time, you will need a Temporary Resident visa.

For a complete list of countries whose citizens are required to obtain visas before entering Canada, or are exempt, please visit http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/visas.asp or contact Crown Calgary for more information.

What kinds of visas are available?

There are two kinds of visas:

� Permanent -- for workers and their families who are moving to Canada permanently.
� Temporary -- 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 which documents you must submit with your application. You need to find out what they are, and make sure you include all the correct documents. Consult the list of Canadian visa offices abroad to find the office responsible for your country.

You can download the application kit from the Citizenship and Immigration Canada Web site.

Be sure to read the guide carefully before completing the application form. The fee for processing your form is not refundable, so make sure you are eligible to get a Temporary Resident visa before you apply.

You can use the same application form for your spouse or common-law partner, and for dependent children under 18, if they will be accompanying you.

All required documents must be included with your application:

� You must have a valid passport (or other approved travel document) for each family member.
� Two recent passport photos for each family member are required. For information on specifications for photographs, see the Useful Links section below.
� Enclose the application fee and the IMM 5401 receipt of payment. Your fee will not be refunded, even if your application is denied.
� You must provide proof that you have enough money for your visit to Canada. The amount of money may vary, depending on the purpose of your visit and length of stay. You can get more information from the Canadian consulate in your country.
� You might need to include other documents, such as identification cards, proof of employment, or a letter of invitation from relatives or friends. Check the Web site of the visa office in your country for more information.

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

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

You could be required to undergo a medical examination before being allowed to enter Canada. If you do, a Canadian immigration officer will provide instructions for the process. 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 in Canada, they must apply for their own 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 can 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:

� You must be authorized to work in Canada for six months or longer.
� The work you are doing must meet 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 or her to accept any job with any employer. Your spouse's permit will be valid for the same length of time as your authorization to work in Canada. 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 SIN to work in Canada. You can pick up an application form for this at the point where you enter Canada. You can also download the form from the Human Resources and Social Development Canada Web site, listed below.

As a temporary resident, your main form of identification is your passport. Even though you don't need a passport to travel within Canada, you should carry at least two pieces of identification with you at all times. 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 as soon as you arrive. The people who work for these organizations can help you find a place to live and answer questions about everything from shopping, to education for your children. Contact Crown for a list of these organizations.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

There are strict laws about what you can and cannot bring into Canada.

Cars must meet Canadian safety and pollution control standards. Many are not allowed into the country. Contact Transport Canada for 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 from inside.

The following items should not 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, fur, bones or ivory;
� Cultural property, including antiques and objects that have historical significance in their country of origin.
� More than 200 cigarettes per person over age 18, if moving to Quebec, Alberta, Saskatchewan or Manitoba;
� More than 200 cigarettes per person over age 19 if moving to Ontario or any of the other provinces.
� More than 1.5 litres of wine or 1.14 litres of commercial alcohol per person over age 19.

You'll be required to pay tax on excess amounts of cigarettes, wine and alcohol. 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

Dial 506 636 5064 or 204 983 3500 when calling from outside Canada, or 1 800 959 2036 from inside.`

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

You should consider bringing some or all of the following important documents with you to Canada:

� Birth certificates and/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/ international driver's permit and a reference from your insurance company
� Car registration documents (if importing a motor vehicle into Canada)
� Photocopies of all essential and important documents in case originals get lost

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 be able to exchange them. They are in wide circulation, so you will get them from time to time. 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 foreign currency because their rates are updated each minute. There are however, money exchange booths that will exchange your currency at the rate that was listed at opening time. You may notice that your hotel or temporary accommodations also offer the service. 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 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 method 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.

The 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 with 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 also 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 are 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)
� Provide proof of residency (you will need a fixed home address before you apply)

Also, depending on the circumstances, the bank might "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 they are also available in French at certain branches and on many banks' Web sites. Because Vancouver is home to many different nationalities, there is a good chance that a representative at your bank will speak your language.

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

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

What are typical banking hours?

Banks are typically open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.to 5 p.m. At some banks, there might be a day during the week when they stay open until early evening. You should check your local bank's 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, beware of high service charges for using ATMs that are not affiliated with your bank.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Keep 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?

Some important factors to consider are safety, location preference and individual needs. Depending on your preferences, you might want to find a place close to work, school, shops and medical facilities. Most importantly though you'll want an area that is safe. Although Vancouver is a very safe city to live in, choosing the right location is essential to having a pleasant stay.

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

The most desirable neighborhoods for expats in Vancouver are Kerrisdale, Southlands and the West End. The latter is particularly attractive because it's a high-rise neighborhood in the downtown area and close to entertainment, shopping and the beach. There are even suburb-style houses which make a great escape from the feeling of living downtown. Southlands has huge mansions boasting the highest costs in the area and Kerrisdale has more of a British feel.

In the downtown area, are three new residential neighbourhoods: Coal Harbour, Yaletown, and Concord Pacific Place. All three were once old industrial areas with factories and warehouses. Now apartments and condominiums dominate the landscape. Concord Pacific Place was the host site of the World Exposition in 1986.

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, you'll be expected 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, and whether or not the cost includes utilities. The lease also states the length of time for occupancy of the property (generally one year), how payment is to be made each month, which appliances (if any) are included and whether or not parking is included.

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

When renting a house, utilities are not typically included in your payment. However, for condominiums and apartments, some utilities are included in your monthly cost.

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

Vancouver is a very safe city and the crime rate is low, but it is recommended that you check out local police reports before deciding on an area to live. These reports provide factual information on types of crimes and how often they occur. This will most likely be a determining factor with where you choose to live. The downtown area is usually busy at all times throughout the day with the Vancouver transit, tourists, locals and bustling shopping areas.

The West End is known as one of the safest areas and is very laid back and scenic. You'll want to avoid the downtown East Side and practice some of these safety routines:

No spare keys: Do not leave spare keys in any convenient hiding place such as under the doormat.
Solid doors: Check that your exterior/entry doors are made of solid wood or metal.
Clear View: Trim trees and shrubbery so that doors and windows are visible from the street.
Secure tools: Keep property such as ladders and tool boxes in a secure shed or storage area to prevent use by thieves.
Valuables: Don't store valuables all in one place, particularly in the bedroom. This is the first place thieves will look.
Take inventory: Record serial numbers of all appliances, electronics, and other valuables. It will be vitally important in the aftermath of theft. If convenient, it is also recommended that you mark your valuables by means of engraving with a distinct number (i.e. your driver's license number) and/or Province.
Avoid strangers: If a stranger asks to use your phone, place the call for them. Never let them into your home.

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:

Type A - Flat blade attachment plug

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 plug 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 plug with unequal pins might pose a problem. This can be bypassed by using an adaptor (found in many travel kits) which converts the newer Type A plug to the older model with equal-sized blades. Beware 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 employer, 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

City of Vancouver Housing Centre
http://vancouver.ca/commsvcs/housing/

Living in Vancouver: An expat's blog
http://ww.expat-blog.com/en/destination/north-america/canada/vancouver/

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

Some expats choose private school and some choose public school for their children. The quality of education is good in both. It is recommended that you contact the school of your choice, as soon as you arrive, to get as much information as possible in order to make your decision.

What are some examples of these schools?

There are many well established public and private schools in the area. According to the Vancouver school board, there are aproximately:
Seventy-five public elementary schools
Sixteen elementary annexes and
Eighteen Secondary Schools

Here's a list of private and independent schools in B.C.

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

For public schools, no there usually isn't. In contrast, private schools often require that you fill out an application. Some might also conduct an interview with the parent, the child and the school's head reviewing the child's portfolio prior to enrollment. Because 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)?

Yes, private and public elementary schools are. Private preschools for younger children are also available. For further assistance you may contact Crown Vancouver.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

There are several options for parents:

� School buses -- funded by the government with tax revenue.
� Public transportation -- bus (BRT), streetcar, or train (LRT).
� Walking or biking -- for students in close proximity to the institution.
� Parents/private --some parents choose to drive their children to school or form carpools with other parents.

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 to 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 to arrange for school search assistance.

Useful Links

Vancouver School Board

Ministry of Education, British Columbia

Early Learning

Private and independent schools