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Let's go!What’s the best way to prepare to move abroad? Besides our winters, which you have certainly heard about, some things about life in Quebec might surprise you. The information below can help you prepare.
The cost of living varies from one city to the next, and generally goes up proportionally with the size of the city. For example, the average cost of rent in Montreal is higher than elsewhere in Quebec. That’s why we recommend that you communicate with the advisor at your cégep to get information on the average cost of rent and different services that are offered in your future city or town. The advisor can also give you some tips to find the best local deals!
You should know that most products and services are subject to federal and provincial sales tax:
Be careful, because the price you see on items in the store almost never includes these taxes (they are calculated at the cash register).
When you go out to eat, service (the tip) is not included in the bill. It’s customary to give the server at least the equivalent of 15% of the bill (before taxes).
In Quebec, electric outlets are 120 volts. If you bring small appliances with you (hair dryer, laptop or computer charger, etc.), don’t forget to get an adapter.
As an international student, you need to file an income tax return if you have taxes to pay or if you want to request a reimbursement. The advisor at your cégep can help you. You can also learn more on the Government of Canada and Revenu Québec sites.
If you are injured during your stay in Quebec:
The currency in Canada is the dollar (CAD) and the bill denominations are $5 (blue bill), $10 (purple), $20 (green), $50 (red), and $100 (brown). The coins are the following: 5 cents (¢), 10¢, 25¢, $1 (also known as a loonie), and $2 (a toonie). To check the exchange rate with your country’s currency, you can use a tool like UX Change. There are also different mobile applications you can download to your cell phone.
To open a bank account, go to any financial institution. Bring your ID, your study permit, proof of enrolment at your cégep, and proof of address.
There are seven major Canadian banks: Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), TD Canada Trust (TD), Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC), Bank of Montreal (BMO), ScotiaBank (BNS), National Bank of Canada (BNC), and Laurentian Bank of Canada. There is also Desjardins Group, with a network of credit unions located in all regions of Quebec.
Tip: try to chose an institution that’s close to your cégep or to your housing to reduce your travel time!
In Canada, you might be solicited by financial institutions who want to offer you a credit card. Unlike in many other countries, Canadian credit cards don’t require you to have money already available. You can use a card to pay for your purchases, up to a certain amount (limit) that you need to pay the following month. Be very diligent in your payments if you decide to use a credit card – the interest rates are very high!
A prepaid card is another possibility. Ask your financial institution directly for more information.
Your debit card (bank card) pays for transactions by taking money directly out of your bank account. This card also lets you make transactions in person at the bank or at an automated teller machine (ATM).
IMPORTANT NOTE: Your debit card will work in ATMs managed by all banks. However, banks charge access fees and high service charges for each transaction made with a card from another bank! Go to your bank’s website to find out where its ATMs are located.
The governments of Quebec and Canada have prepared useful guides to help you when you arrive in the country. You can learn more about Canadian values, the history of Canada, its laws, etc.
Find the guides here: