Glossary
Key terms for emigrating
CRA (Canada Revenue Agency)
The Canadian tax authority. Tax year = calendar year, returns due by April 30. Canada has federal + provincial tax (total 20-54% depending on province and income).
Credit History (Canada)
Your Canadian credit history. Starts at zero as a newcomer. Build it via a Canadian credit card, phone contract and paying fixed costs on time. Equifax and TransUnion are the credit bureaus.
Express Entry (Immigration System)
The Canadian points-based system for skilled immigrants. Your profile is assessed on age, education, work experience, language level (IELTS/TEF). High CRS score = invitation for PR.
GST/HST (Sales Tax)
The Canadian sales tax: GST (5% federal) + PST (provincial, 0-10%), or combined as HST (13-15%). Store prices exclude tax — always calculate extra.
LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment)
An assessment a Canadian employer must obtain to hire a foreign worker. Proves that no suitable Canadian candidate is available.
Provincial Health Insurance
Each Canadian province has its own health insurance: OHIP (Ontario), MSP (BC), RAMQ (Quebec), etc. 3-month waiting period before coverage starts — get bridging insurance.
PR Card (Permanent Resident Card)
The Canadian permanent residence card. You must reside in Canada for at least 730 days in 5 years to maintain your PR. After 3 years you can apply for Canadian citizenship.
RRSP (Retirement Savings Plan)
The Canadian pension savings plan with tax benefits. Contributions are deductible, growth is tax-free. You pay tax only upon withdrawal. Comparable to an annuity.
Service Canada (Government Services)
The counter for federal government services: SIN application, unemployment insurance (EI), passport, pension. Comparable to a Dutch municipal office but federal.
SIN (Social Insurance Number)
The Canadian social insurance number. Required for working, filing taxes and government services. Apply at Service Canada as soon as you are in Canada.
TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account)
A tax-free savings account in Canada. Growth and withdrawals are completely tax-free. Annual contribution limit of ~$7,000. Ideal for saving and investing.