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Filipino newcomers

Canada from the Philippines.

Filipinos are one of Canada’s largest newcomer communities, with strong ties to healthcare, caregiving and family sponsorship.

Last reviewed September 2026

CAD → PHP

Philippine peso
Common pathwaysWork permits, Study to permanent residence, Express Entry
Popular citiesToronto, Calgary, Vancouver
CurrencyPhilippine peso (PHP)
Send moneyCAD → PHP
Settle priorities

First-month priorities for Filipino newcomers.

On top of the usual first-30-days steps.

Your first 30 days

Nurses: start licensing early

Internationally educated nurses usually begin with the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS), then apply to a provincial regulator.

Caregivers: know your program

Caregiver pathways to permanent residence change often. Check IRCC’s current caregiver programs before you apply.

Balikbayan boxes

Ship through established forwarders and keep receipts; rules on what you can send change, so check before you pack.

Send money home without the markup

Compare what arrives in pesos, including cash pickup and e-wallet options.

Money

Sending money to the Philippines.

Compare what arrives in Philippine pesos, not just the fee: the exchange-rate markup is often the bigger cost. Check payout options your family can use easily, and how fast the money lands.

Our partner

RemitBee sends from Canada to the Philippines. Check its live rate alongside your bank.

See RemitBee’s rates

RemitBee supports SettleCanada; we may earn a fee.

Community and culture

Finding your Filipino community.

Philippine Independence Day festivals in June and Simbang Gabi at Christmas bring communities together in most big cities. Filipino churches, regional associations and nurses’ groups are strong in Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver and Winnipeg.

Settlement agencies can connect you with community organizations and services in your language. Ask when you visit, or call 2-1-1 in most provinces.

the Philippines newsletter

Moving from the Philippines?

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General information, not legal advice. Immigration rules change often and depend on your situation. Check IRCC or speak with a licensed consultant (RCIC) or lawyer before you apply.