Housing in Canada for newcomers
Finding a place to live is one of the biggest early tasks. The Canadian rental market moves quickly, so it helps to understand how leases, deposits, and tenant rights work before you apply.
Find housing resourcesRenting a home
Most rentals require identification, proof of income or savings, and sometimes references. As a newcomer without a Canadian credit history, you may be asked for a larger deposit, a guarantor, or a few months of rent paid in advance — but rules vary by province.
Leases and deposits
A lease is a legal contract; read it before signing. Most provinces limit the security deposit to one month’s rent and set rules for how it is returned. Quebec handles deposits differently from the rest of Canada.
Avoid rental scams
Never wire a deposit for a home you have not seen in person or by a verified video tour. Be cautious of listings priced far below the local market, or landlords who say they are "out of the country."
Official sources
Always confirm current details on the official page. This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice.