Amazing life hacks for working holidaymakers in Canada

That’s why a few clever hacks can make all the difference. They’ll save you from the usual trial-and-error and help you settle in faster. We asked the Moving2Canada community, along with some seasoned IEC travellers and our very own Moving2Canada staff who came through the IEC program, to share the practical tips that made their time here easier, cheaper, and a whole lot more enjoyable.

Here are some of our favourites:

But before, make sure you don’t miss our detailed video guide to prepare for your Working Holiday Visa in Canada:

You can claim back loads of your taxes

We can probably agree that tax isn’t the most fun subject in the world. But do you know what is fun? Having an extra $1,000 cha-ching-ing its way into your bank account. That’s around the average tax refund working holiday participants receive when they file their Canadian tax return, but you really need to know your way around Canada’s tax system to get the full refund you may be entitled to.

Don’t delay your health coverage

You’ll need private health insurance to activate your IEC visa. BestQuote helps you compare plans to get you the best deal. But even with your health insurance, sign up for your provisional health service as soon as you’re eligible and join the waitlist for a family doctor right away, as waits can be long.

Transit apps beat Google Maps

Google Maps is handy, but it doesn’t always get bus times right. Instead, save your regular stops on TransLink’s Next Bus or use the Transit App. With real-time updates, you’ll know exactly when to leave, no more waiting in the rain or chasing a bus that’s already pulled away.

Time your rental search

Leases in Canadian cities can technically start on any date, but most often kick off on the 1st or the 15th of the month. It’s worth keeping in mind when you’re booking short-term housing and finding accommodation, so your check-out and move-in dates flow together.

Save on bank fees and build credit early

Opening a Canadian bank account should be one of your first steps. Most Canadian banks charge monthly fees, but newcomers get special perks. With Scotiabank’s StartRight program, newcomers can access no-fee accounts and bonuses while also starting to build a credit history—something landlords (and future lenders) love to see. It’s a simple way to save money now and set yourself up long-term.

Volunteer for “Canadian experience”

Volunteering isn’t only good for the soul. It’s also a great way to add Canadian experience to your resume, which can really help when applying for jobs. Even a few hours a week at a local nonprofit or community event can help you build references, expand your network, and show future employers you’ve integrated into Canadian life.

Think long-term in interviews

Employers want staff to stick around, even if you’re on a temporary permit. Be upfront, professional, and positive about your plans. Instead of focusing on when your work permit ends, show you’re serious about staying by mentioning that you’ve already looked into PR or even booked a language test.

Use guides and apps to save money (and have fun)

Most cities have local guides that make finding deals a lot easier. If you’re in Vancouver, for example, HappyHourVancouver.ca is a great go-to for food and drink specials, and other cities usually have similar sites worth bookmarking. Apps like Too Good To Go let you grab leftover food at a discount from restaurants and cafés. And if you’re more interested in meeting people than hunting for snacks, apps like Meetup are great for finding social events where you can stretch your budget and your circle of friends.

Change your app store settings

Speaking of apps, make sure to switch your App Store or Google Play settings to Canada as soon as you arrive. Otherwise, you’ll miss out on essential apps, like banking, transit, or even camping guides that don’t appear unless your store location is Canadian.

Don’t skip the holiday in “Working Holiday”

It’s easy to get caught up in work and city life, but many IEC alumni regret not exploring more. Make the most of your weekends by renting a car on Turo, joining friends on a road trip, or catching a cheap flight to another city. Canada’s landscapes are the real highlight, so get out there and take them in!

Get your paperwork in the right order

Apply for your social insurance number (SIN) first. You can do this on arrival at a Service Canada Centre, by mail, or at designated airport booths. Then set up your bank account, and after that, your phone plan. Each step makes the next one easier. For example, you need a SIN to open most accounts, and a local bank account helps with phone bill payments.

Bring your driving record from home

If you plan to drive in Canada, bring a copy of your driving licence history from back home. This small step makes it easier to swap your licence and can save you hundreds on car insurance, money you’ll probably prefer to spend on travel and fun.