Average Struggle Period for a New Immigrant to Settle in Canada

What is the average struggle period for a new immigrant to settle in Canada? How can you settle faster before getting frustrated?

It is always a struggle initially for new immigrants to settle in a foreign nation like Canada. The average struggle period for newcomers may vary as it depends on the settlers how fast they adapt themselves in the new environment?

Living and settling in Canada is a dream come true for many expatriates. However, moving to a new environment brings a lot of challenges and drastic turnarounds for the newcomers and they might face frustration and homesickness in a new country.

Stages of Challenges Faced by New Immigrant in Canada

Notably, during the first year of the settlement, most new immigrants face the challenges and usually struggle. However, it also depends on the length of stay of the immigrants living in Canada.

Well, dividing these challenges into stages can ease us to analyse it in a better way. Such stages can be-

Stage#1 Initial Stage while settling in Canada as Immigrant

We all are very excited whenever we move to the new place. We have lots of dreams and hopes for the new location.

Similarly, when immigrants move to Canada, they are pretty much excited about everything they heard of the Canadian provinces.

At this stage, new immigrants are usually highly motivated and daydreaming about their new life.

Stage#2 Disillusion Stage of an Immigrant in Canada

It is the second phase when you come out of your dream and start understanding the reality of living in Canada. Now, you start realising the difference between your native country and Canada.

Gradually, you get confused, frustrated and disappointed while facing the everyday challenges. You feel unconnected with the native Canadians which further leads to homesickness. You feel positive one day and negative the other day.

You may face the challenges of communication, cooperation with the native Canadians, understanding the program and services of Canada, adapting the rapidly changing life and many more.

Stage#3 Reformation Stage after Immigrating to Canada

Once you spend 5 to 6 months in Canada, you begin adapting and understanding Canadian culture and services. Now, you get hold of your life and are more confident in communicating. 

Stage#4 Compliance or Acceptance Stage of an immigrant

This is the time when you accept Canadian culture. You start getting involved in the Canadian community. By this time, probably you may have a right friend circle in the country.

With the period, you feel that this country is your other home as everything would be familiar with you. Mostly, you feel content and get involved better in your everyday tasks.

Well, all these processes will take at least one year to let you settle in the Canadian provinces.

Essentials Tips for New Immigrants in Canada

Settling to a big country like Canada is indeed a bit challenging for newcomers. However, it would be better if you already know about the challenges you might face in the country and prepare yourself in advance for this struggle. 

Here are a few important tips that can assist you in preparing yourself for upcoming challenges and hardships.

• It would help if you upgrade your skills in the language of the country where you are thinking of settling. It will give you more confidence in connecting the people of that country.
• Whatever you intend to do in Canada, make sure you have a plan B. Having option B will bring flexibility in your decision while facing the challenges in the Canadian cities.
• Make a mindset of coming out of your comfort zone. Try to avoid the things similar to your own culture as it will take you in the memories of your home country. However, if you want to adapt to Canadian society, you need to accept the culture and people of Canada.
• Always take a calculated risk to get the best from the better. Our risk-taking habit helps us in experiencing the outcomes of life.
• The most important thing is to build your network in a new country. Always remember that a good network always leads you to success in life.

Finally, it would be best if you have faith in yourself and patience when settling in a new country. It takes around 10 to 12 months to adapt entirely to a new culture and environment. Don’t hesitate in talking to your mentors while facing issues in Canada.

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Shobha Vats

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