English is the everyday language in Toronto, French is Canada's other official language, and more than four in ten residents have another mother tongue. What newcomers commonly notice and how to get services in French or in your own language.
Everyday culture in Canada
Unwritten rules and everyday habits newcomers to Canada often notice — with context, regional differences and practical tips.
Choose where you are moving from to see notes written for that contrast, where our editors found one.
Communication
At work
Differences newcomers commonly report in Canadian workplaces, such as first-name terms with managers, scent-free policies and expectations about punctuality, plus the human rights rules on "Canadian experience" and religious accommodation in Ontario.
Tipping
Tipping is expected at sit-down restaurants in Canada, but payment screens now ask for tips in many other places too. What newcomers commonly notice, what Canadians report doing according to recent polls, and what Ontario law says about servers' tips.
Sundays and holidays
Ontario has nine public holidays under its Employment Standards Act, and several of them create long weekends. What newcomers commonly notice about holiday dates, days that are holidays for some workers but not others, and how to plan around them.
Recycling and environment
Toronto households sort their waste into recycling, organics and garbage, with separate routes for yard waste, electronics and hazardous products. What newcomers commonly notice, what changed in 2026 and how to find out where an item goes.
Toronto winters bring snow, ice and spells of extreme cold. What newcomers commonly notice, who clears the sidewalks, how much heat your landlord must provide and where to find help on very cold days.