Finding a job.
The Open Employment Work Authorization allows you to be legally employed in Canada for up to six months, anywhere, by any employer.
Many participants find employment
in stores, bars, restaurants, hotels and ski and summer resorts. Nearly 40% of participants
find clerical, career or course related, or professional work.
The majority of participants look for work once they have arrived in Canada, taking
on average seven days to secure a job. However, there is no reason why you should
not start your job hunt now and arrange a job before you go. You should note that
if you plan to work in agriculture, childcare, health services or teaching, you
are required to undergo medical clearance BEFORE entering Canada. This can be a
lengthy and costly process.
Accommodation
Some employers provide accommodation otherwise youth hostels or student dorms are
probably your best bet when you first arrive in a town to start your job or look
for work.
During the summer vacation, university halls of residence let rooms on an individual
basis and provide a good standard of budget accommodation. Many Canadian students
go away for the summer months and sublet their apartments. Alternatively, look in
the classified section of the local newspaper for apartments to rent or share. Accommodation
agencies can be useful but check whether or not they charge a fee.
During your stay
You should budget carefully for the first few weeks of your stay. Unless you have
friends or relatives to stay with, you will typically need to pay in advance for
your accommodation (plus a security deposit). Also bear in mind it may be two to
four weeks before you receive your first paycheck.
On average, a room in a shared house costs approximately C$400-600 per month with
general living costs about C$100 extra per week. Although subject to change, one
Canadian dollar is roughly equivalent to 96c in the US; one US dollar is roughly
equal to C$1.03.
Travel in Canada
Whether you work as you travel or work then travel, you will probably want to see
as much of Canada as possible. The huge diversity in culture and geography make
it a great destination for doing just about anything. You could, for example, explore
one of Canada's nine mountain ranges, two million lakes or visit one of the thousand
national parks for an outdoor adventure.
Canada also offers several exciting cities including Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa
and Montreal, all boasting excellent galleries, museums, theaters, shopping and
a vibrant nightlife.