Using public transit

Each city runs its own system and fare card — Presto (GTA), Compass (Vancouver), OPUS (Montréal) — plus monthly passes and student fares.

Key points to understand

City systems and their tap cards (Presto, Compass, OPUS…)

City systems and their tap cards (Presto, Compass, OPUS…). In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Monthly passes, transfers and concession fares

Monthly passes, transfers and concession fares. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

GO/commuter rail and inter-city (VIA Rail, buses)

GO/commuter rail and inter-city (VIA Rail, buses). In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.