📱 Having a Canadian number is essential for looking for a job, contacting a landlord or receiving security codes (bank, social security number…).

💡 Recommended operators for Working Holiday Visa holders :

• Fido , Koodo and Virgin Mobile : good value for money, no contract period

• Public Mobile or Lucky Mobile : low-cost prepaid

• Expect to pay around 30 to 50 CAD per month for a plan with 5 to 10 GB

🔹 VVT Tip : You can buy your SIM card at the airport or in any shopping center. However, our job assistance team can help you choose a suitable plan upon arrival – if your phone allows it, you can opt for an eSIM temporarily.

🚗 You can drive in Canada with:

• A valid Belgian driver's license

• Accompanied by an international driving permit (to be applied for in Belgium BEFORE your departure)

📍 In some provinces (e.g., Quebec), after 90 days , you will either have to:

• Request an official translation

• Or exchange your license for a Canadian license (possible in Quebec)

💬 Warning: rules vary by province.

🔹 VVT Service : our job assistance explains province by province what you need to do to stay legal if you drive.

💳 Opening a Canadian bank account is essential for:

• Receive your salary

• Pay without fees

• Obtain a local debit card

🏦 Popular banks:

• Desjardins , BMO , RBC , TD Canada Trust

💡 Many offer no-fee deals for newcomers.

🔹 VVT Service : Our job assistance team helps you open your account online or in person, and choose a bank based on the city where you're settling. You can use the job assistance contact information, which will be helpful for your request.

Social Security Number:

🔐 A Social Security number is required for:

• Working legally

• To be paid

• File your taxes

📍 You apply for it at a Service Canada office, with your passport and your letter of introduction.

⏱️ Fast delivery (usually within the day).

🔹 VVT Service : our job assistance team supports you in this process

Local transport:

🚆 A local transport card is essential from the very first days.

💳 2025 Subscription Prices:

• Montreal (STM) : 100 CAD/month

• Toronto (all taxes included) : 162 CAD/month

• Vancouver (Translink) : CAD 105 to 190 depending on the zone

🔹 VVT Service : our job assistance team supports you in this process

🩺 Health insurance is mandatory for the entire duration of your stay in Canada . You must purchase it before your departure .

💡 Important : Canadian authorities will stamp your passport upon arrival based on the duration of your insurance policy . If you present a 6-month insurance policy, your Working Holiday Visa may be limited to 6 months , even if the visa is valid for 12 months.

🔹 Our insurance recommendation, specially designed for Working Holiday Visa holders: see here .