Learn about resources for IAWs to assist them in settling into life and work in Ontario.

Social Insurance Number

IAWs must have their Social Insurance Number (SIN) to:

  • work and receive pay in Canada
  • access government programs and benefits
  • file income tax returns

IAWs can get a SIN at a Service Canada kiosk in the secure baggage claim area of the Toronto Pearson International Airport during operating hours. Workers can apply for a SIN for the first time, obtain confirmation of their SIN or update information (for example, legal name change, correct an error) at the kiosk.

If an IAW did not get their SIN while at the airport, help them:

OHIP coverage and Ontario health card

Most IAWs are eligible for the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) as soon as they arrive in Ontario for work. There is no waiting period for OHIP coverage for those who are eligible. Employers can promptly help IAWs apply for OHIP or renew an Ontario health card. Once approved, IAWs will get an Ontario health card that proves OHIP coverage for many health services.

New health cards will be mailed to the employer. Employers must ensure that all health cards are passed on to the respective IAWs.

Learn more about the process of applying for OHIP and about OHIP-covered services and products.

Driver’s licence

IAWs may be able to drive while in Ontario. A driver’s licence is needed to legally drive in Ontario. To drive a vehicle on roads in Ontario, a worker needs to:

  • have a valid driver’s licence
  • have a valid owner’s permit, licence plate and insurance policy for the vehicle they are driving
  • drive safely and obey all traffic laws

If an IAW already has a valid driver’s licence from another province, state or country, they can use that licence for 60 days. After 60 days, they must get an Ontario driver’s licence.

If an IAW does not have a valid driver’s licence and wants to drive in the province, they must be at least 16 years old and get an Ontario driver’s licence.

To drive on Ontario roads solely, an IAW will need:

  • a G class licence to drive a car, van or small truck
  • a M class licence to ride a motorcycle, motor scooter or moped

Ontario uses a graduated licensing system designed to give new drivers time to practice and gain driving experience over time. Drivers start at level 1 (G1 or M1 licence), progress to level 2 (G2 or M2 licence) and may qualify for a full G or M licence. Each level has specific rules and testing requirements.

Learn more about driver’s licences for new drivers.

Exchanging a foreign driver’s licence

If an IAW has a driver’s licence from a country that has an exchange agreement with Ontario, they may be eligible to exchange their licence for an Ontario driver’s licence.

The IAW will need to apply in person at a:

They will need to bring:

  • an original acceptable identity document proving their legal name and complete date of birth including the day, month and year
  • their original, valid out of province/foreign driver’s licence
  • a supporting document, authentication letter or abstract showing additional driving experience (if required) or an official letter from their home licensing authority confirming their driving experience in English or French
  • a certified translation by a translator recognized by the Ministry of Transportation if their licence is not in English or French

Learn more:

Vehicle registration and insurance

Every vehicle registered in Ontario must be insured, including farm vehicles. Vehicle insurance helps cover costs if the driver is in an accident that hurts someone else or damages their property. It’s a key part of driving safely and legally in Ontario.

Learn more about vehicle insurance and registration in Ontario, including farm vehicles.

Health care and emergency services

Local public health units provide:

  • disease prevention information
  • health education
  • sexual health supports
  • immunizations (services will vary by location)

Find your local public health unit and inquire directly for more information.

Use Public Health Ontario’s Health Services Locator Map to find services near you.

Locally, there may be healthcare clinics that offer services that are geared towards the IAW community. These clinics may provide medical information and supports tailored to IAWs, and resources in other languages.

Learn more about Community Health Centres and find location information.

Transportation to accessing healthcare and dental services

IAWs may not know how to best access healthcare and dental services in Ontario. Employers should offer and assist with transportation and guidance on accessing health and dental care services.

Please check your employee’s SAWP contract or stream information to find your responsibilities for providing transportation for medical reasons.

IAW passports and identification

IAWs must have full access to their legal documents and identification documents such as passports, health cards and driver’s licences. IAWs should be provided with adequate storage space and be able to access their belongings and documents from a safe and secure location where they reside. EPFNA sets out prescribed penalties that may be issued to an employer or recruiter for contraventions of the legislation.

Learn more about penalties under EPFNA.

Roles of consulates and liaison services

Consulates and liaison services help maintain connections between employers and IAWs including connections to various support organizations throughout the province. Consulates and liaison services must provide help and services to their nationals, including in times of distress. They will help address any employer-employee related matters, if needed.

Find a local consular office or liaison service if you or an IAW you employ need help from their respective country’s representative in Ontario.