Before You Arrive
Get Ready for Your New Life!
Moving to Ottawa is exciting, and being prepared will help you feel confident and comfortable.
Things to Know Before Moving
Learning About Ottawa
Ottawa is a safe, friendly city with people from all over the world. There are many parks, good jobs, and a high quality of life. Learning about Ottawa before you arrive helps you choose where to live, how to get around, and which schools are best for your family.
Choosing Your Neighbourhood
Ottawa has many different areas. Some are quiet and suburban, others are busy and urban. Research neighbourhoods to find one that fits your lifestyle, budget, and needs for transportation, schools, and community services.
Finding a Home
Look up rent prices and your rights as a tenant before you move. This helps you find a safe, comfortable place and avoid problems during your housing search.
Schools and Education
Ottawa has public, Catholic, French-language, private, and alternative schools. Check what paperwork you need, where schools are, and which language programs are available. This helps your children be ready for their first day.
Learning About Canada
Find out about Canadian culture, your rights and responsibilities, and daily life. This will help you feel confident and know what to expect.
Preparing Your Documents
Bring important papers like school records, medical files, and identification. This makes it easier to access services, apply for jobs, and settle quickly.
Understanding the Job Market
Learn about Ottawa’s job market, what qualifications you need, and what Canadian workplaces expect. This helps you create a strong résumé and plan your career.
Health Care
Learn how health care works in Ontario (OHIP), how to find a doctor, and what to do in your first three months. This helps you and your family stay healthy.
Welcome to Canada Guide
Everything you need to know about moving to Canada is collected in the multilingual Welcome to Canada guide. It walks you through the steps of preparing for your move, understanding your rights and services, and settling confidently in your new community. You can read the guide in multiple languages here:
Prepare for your Canadian journey before you arrive. Discover the SOPA program
CCI Ottawa is one of six partner agencies delivering SOPA across Canada. Our team helps you understand the job market, build confidence, and begin your Canadian journey with clarity and direction.
SOPA (Settlement Online Pre-Arrival) is a free national program that helps you get ready for the Canadian workplace before you land. Through online courses and personalized coaching, SOPA strengthens your job search skills, builds your understanding of Canadian workplace culture, and connects you with settlement services in the province where you plan to live.
SOPA offers practical employment courses, one-on-one coaching to support your résumé, cover letter, and job search plan, and direct referrals to local services that can help you settle with confidence. All services are available in English and French.
You are eligible for SOPA if you have received your permanent resident visa, are currently living outside Canada, and are preparing to move as a principal applicant, spouse, or adult dependent.