Montreal city guide
For newcomers & families
Where the community is: Parc-Extension is Montreal’s best-known South Asian neighbourhood, with many restaurants, grocers and sweet shops along Jean-Talon and Jarry.
Health coverage
RAMQ health insurance
Register with RAMQ; a waiting period may apply, so keep private coverage for the first months.
Driver’s licence
SAAQ driver’s licence
Exchange or test for a Quebec licence through the SAAQ.
Getting around
STM (métro and bus)
Pay with a OPUS card.
Schools
Centre de services scolaire de Montréal
English Montreal School Board
Public school is free for children of permanent residents and most work- and study-permit holders.
Free newcomer help
Québec immigration services
Québec newcomer services (Accompagnement Québec)
Free settlement services help with jobs, English or French classes, housing and paperwork.
First steps in Canada
Apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Canada Child Benefit for families
Open a bank account and get a local phone number in week one.
Read the full newcomer checklist →
Festivals & events
Diwali, Eid and Vaisakhi events run across Parc-Ex and the West Island. French classes (francisation) are free for eligible newcomers.
Rules and programs change; always confirm on the official site before you apply.
Local directory
🍛 Indian restaurants
🍢 Pakistani restaurants
🥟 Nepali restaurants
🍬 Sweet shops & bakeries
🛒 South Asian grocery stores
🙏 Gurdwaras
🛕 Hindu temples
Some listing details come from © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL) and may be out of date. Own one of these businesses? Add or update your listing for free.
