WHAT TO EXPECT IN NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR

About Newfoundland and Labrador
Newfoundland and Labrador (abbreviated to NL) is Canada’s most eastern province. Newfoundland is a large island, and Labrador is a part of mainland Canada. St. John’s is the capital city. The province is growing and becoming more diverse, with newcomers from around the world choosing to live and work here. Welcome! Click here for additional information.

Immigration and Entry
If you are arriving in Newfoundland and Labrador from outside the country, have your vital documents ready to show border officials. This includes your passport, work permit or entry letter, job offer or employment contract, and employer contact details. Put all documents in a folder in your carry-on, not your checked luggage. If your bags are delayed, you still need the documents.

Important Actions
If you haven’t already done so when you arrived in Canada, apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN) at Service Canada, you’ll need it to get paid by your employer. Register for your Medical Care Plan (MCP) card through Service NL. Open a bank account, many banks have newcomer packages and will accept your job contract/offer letter and passport if you don’t have proof of address yet.

Housing and Moving In
Many newcomers stay in temporary housing while finding a more permanent place to live. Unfurnished apartments are standard. Landlords usually ask for proof of employment, references, and first/last month’s rent. Beware of scammers and fraudulent schemes. Ask your employer if they offer housing or relocation support.

Phone and Internet Setup
If you don’t have a Canadian cell phone plan, get one soon after arriving in NL. It helps with banking, employment, and housing needs. Major providers include Bell, Rogers, Eastlink, and Koodo. You can also buy a pay-as-you-go SIM cards. Bell and Rogers also offer home phone packages.

Starting Your Job
Confirm your start date and bring relevant documents, credentials, and employment contract if requested. Verify if provincial licensing is required for your role. Workplaces are generally friendly and informal, but punctuality and safety are essential – expect mandatory health and safety training.

Driver’s Licence and Transport
You can use your home country driver’s licence for up to three months. After that, you must switch to a NL licence. If you’re from certain countries, you can exchange it directly; others require a written and road test. Public transit is limited to certain areas.

Weather and Daily Life
Expect strong winds, fog, and wet snow from November to April. Summers are cool and short. Most shopping and services close earlier than in bigger cities, especially on Sundays. Newfoundland has its own time zone – 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Time, which is used in most of Labrador.

Healthcare and Benefits
MCP covers doctor and hospital visits after you register, but family doctors have waitlists. Use Patient Connect NL to get on the list. Ask your employer about workplace health benefits as they may cover prescriptions, dental, and eye care that MCP does not.

Cost of Living
Housing costs are lower here than in big cities like Toronto or Vancouver. Groceries, gas, and home heating can be more expensive than other places in Canada.

Community and Settlement Support
Once you’re here in NL, connect with the Association for New Canadians (or another settlement agency) right away. The ANC offers free settlement, language, and employment help for newcomers to the province.

Community Connections
Joining community groups, volunteering, and workplace social events helps you build strong links and networks. The ANC, cultural associations, and faith groups often host newcomer events.