With over 900,000 people of Filipino origin, Canada is one of the top countries for those relocating from the Philippines—especially for those seeking opportunities for work, education, and raising families. However, landing in a North American country far from Southeast Asia, on the other side of the Pacific Ocean, can be a fraught and confusing experience. Not only can the language barrier be difficult to break through, but the culture shock and the task of rebuilding a life can also be challenging.
Fortunately, Canada has many community resources to help newcomers. If you’re considering moving to Canada, you can rely on these resources, charities, and Filipino advocacy groups to get a leg up, and also find easy ways to send money back home to relatives and loved ones.
Government resources and settlement agencies
To navigate the paperwork and process related to relocating, Canada has many government resources that provide information on obtaining visas, citizenship applications, and where to find the nearest offices for new residents. The Philippine Consulate, which has locations in Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa (the Canadian capital), also offers guidance and information for Filipinos. You can also find community resources that provide information on employment services, language training, and food programs.
Visa programs that can lead to permanent residency
The Canadian government has programs that help Filipinos comfortably work and live as a new resident. For example, the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) allows candidates with work experience to apply for permanent residency, even if you don’t have an existing connection to Canada (such as relatives or work sponsorship). For students, the Student Direct Stream can expedite the process of obtaining a study permit. And through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), specific Canadian provinces and territories can nominate skilled worker candidates for relocation to their respective jurisdictions.
Community centers and local libraries
Canadian community centers and local libraries offer classes aimed at helping Filipino newcomers. These community resources are available in multiple languages. Some topics they cover are teaching newcomers English and French languages, setting up financial services and bank accounts, and lessons in how to prepare for job interviews.
Libraries also offer free access to computers and the internet—which can help newly minted residents find online forums, social media groups, and expat communities, especially those tailored to Filipinos.
Discovering Little Manila
Many of Canada’s largest cities feature Little Manilas, or communities comprised of those from the Philippines who have recently arrived. For example, Toronto is home to the largest Filipino population in Canada, with over 250,000 people, and its Little Manila is a lively cultural hotspot that caters to both native communities and tourists alike.
In these Filipino communities, specific cultural and religious organizations offer Mass conducted in Tagalog. Social services and support can offer legal services and networking opportunities for jobs. Cultural events and parades, combined with establishments like Asian supermarkets and Filipino restaurants, offer a welcome sense of home in a new country.
Send money between Canada and the Philippines
If you’re considering moving to Canada from the Philippines, you can discover how easy it is to send money to family members and loved ones—whether they’re in Canada, or back home in the Philippines. Download the Western Union app or go online to send them money. You can also visit an agent location to send money in person.
