Side Hustle Ideas in Canada for Newcomers: 17 Flexible Options

1. Gig Economy Driving (Uber, Lyft, DoorDash)

Gig economy driving is a popular way for newcomers in Canada to earn income quickly. Platforms like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash offer flexible hours, allowing you to work around your schedule. However, several requirements must be met.

Firstly, you’ll need a valid Canadian driver’s license. In Ontario, a full G license is generally required for ride-sharing. For all platforms, ensuring your vehicle meets safety standards is crucial; this often involves a vehicle inspection.

Insurance is mandatory, and for ride-sharing, you might need specific coverage or rely on the platform’s insurance during trips. As a newcomer, you can explore options from various Canadian providers.

Earning potential varies based on location, hours worked, and demand. While income can fluctuate, many find this a good way to start earning upon arrival.

Pro Tip: Research the specific driver and vehicle requirements for your city on each platform’s website.

Connecting You to Resources:

• Explore vehicle financing options designed for newcomers in Canada.
• Compare car insurance quotes from different Canadian companies.

2. Freelance Writing or Virtual Assistant Services

For newcomers with existing writing, administrative, technical, or creative skills, offering freelance writing or virtual assistant services can be a fantastic way to earn income with a relatively low barrier to entry.

The beauty of these roles is that you can often work remotely, setting your own hours and choosing projects that align with your expertise. In fact, as my website grows, I’ve personally found it incredibly helpful to hire virtual assistants for various tasks, and I definitely foresee needing more support in the future. This shows there’s a real demand for these services!

Several online platforms can connect you with potential clients in Canada and internationally. Popular options include:

• Upwork: A large platform with a wide variety of freelance opportunities.
• Fiverr: Known for its “gig-based” system where you offer services at fixed prices.
• Freelancer: Another major platform with a diverse range of projects.
• Freel: Canadian platform connecting Canadian freelancers and clients across various fields.
• Workhoppers: Canadian platform using AI to match freelancers with suitable projects.
• Canadianava: Member search for Canadian virtual assistants by postal code.

To stand out on these platforms, consider these tips for building a strong profile:

• Clearly highlight your skills and experience: Be specific about what you can offer.
• Showcase your portfolio: If you have previous work samples, be sure to include them.
• Ask for testimonials: Positive feedback from previous clients can significantly boost your profile.
• Start with competitive rates: Research the market to set prices that attract clients while reflecting your value.

To help you determine your rates, it’s beneficial to understand the Canadian freelance market. Resources like this guide on setting freelance rates in Canada can provide valuable insights into calculating a fair and competitive hourly or project rate, considering your desired income, expenses, and the going market rates for your skills.

Now that we’ve explored how your existing skills can translate into flexible freelance opportunities, let’s delve into another accessible side gig: offering your language skills as an online tutor or instructor.

3. Online Tutoring or Language Instruction

Do you have a knack for explaining things or speak your native language fluently? Online tutoring and language instruction can be a rewarding and flexible side gig in Canada, where there’s a consistent demand for academic support and language learning.

Many Canadian students, from elementary school to university level, seek help in subjects like math, science, and English. Moreover, with Canada’s diverse population, there’s a significant need for tutors who can teach various languages, especially English as a Second Language (ESL) to newcomers.

Several platforms can connect you with students looking for tutors in Canada:

• Tutor.com: A well-known platform with a wide range of subjects.
• Skooli: A Canadian-based service that focuses on qualified tutors.
• Preply (https://preply.com/): A platform popular for language tutoring.
• Wyzant (https://www.wyzant.com/): A US-based company with a strong presence in Canada.

When creating your profile on these platforms, highlight any specific expertise you have, whether it’s in a particular academic subject or your proficiency in a certain language. Many newcomers can leverage their native language skills to teach others.

For example, if your first language is French, Mandarin, or Spanish, there’s likely a demand for your skills. Remember to showcase any certifications or relevant experience to build trust with potential students.

Building on the theme of sharing your knowledge and skills, our next side gig idea explores how you can put your handiness to use by offering handyperson or odd job services to busy professionals in your community.

4. Local Delivery Services (Grocery, Parcels)

Beyond the well-known food delivery apps, there’s a growing need for local delivery of various other goods in Canadian cities like Mississauga. If you have a reliable vehicle or are comfortable using public transit or a bicycle, this could be a flexible side gig.

Many businesses and individuals require help with delivering groceries from specific stores, parcels, documents, or even larger items.

Consider exploring opportunities with companies that specialize in same-day or next-day local courier services like Assured Parcel in Mississauga or AAA Express, which handles a wide range of deliveries. Some grocery stores are also expanding their own delivery services beyond the major apps. For instance, some smaller or ethnic grocery stores might need independent contractors.

In larger, more congested cities like Toronto, using a bicycle for deliveries can be an efficient and cost-effective option, especially for smaller items. Services like Send It Courier in Toronto specifically focus on bicycle deliveries, highlighting the potential for emission-free transport.

Even public transit can be a viable option for certain types of deliveries within the city’s service area, as demonstrated by services like A-Way Express in Toronto.

Pro Tip: Look for opportunities in your local community by checking online job boards, local business websites, and even community notice boards.

As we continue exploring various ways to earn flexibly in Canada, our next idea focuses on the growing demand for remote customer service and data entry roles offered by many Canadian companies.

5. Remote Customer Service or Data Entry Roles

Looking for a side gig you can do from the comfort of your home? Many Canadian companies are increasingly offering remote, part-time positions in customer service and data entry. These roles can be a great fit for newcomers as they often require good communication skills and attention to detail, which you might already possess.

The flexibility of part-time work allows you to earn while you continue your job search or balance other commitments.

Several job boards specialize in remote opportunities in Canada, such as:

• Remoters.net: Lists remote jobs from various companies.
• Remote.co: Another platform dedicated to remote work opportunities.
• Indeed and LinkedIn: While not exclusively for remote roles, these major job platforms often have a significant number of remote listings; use keywords like “remote” or “work from home” in your search.
• Randstaad (https://www.randstad.ca/): This major Canadian staffing agency has a section on their website dedicated to remote job postings.
• Freel.ca: While also a platform for freelancers, it lists remote opportunities with Canadian companies.

Typical skills required for these roles include strong communication (written and verbal), basic computer proficiency, and the ability to follow instructions. Depending on the role, bilingualism (English and French) can be a significant asset in Canada.

Pro Tip: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight any previous experience in customer service, data entry, or roles requiring similar skills, even if from your home country.

To further enhance your application and performance in these roles, consider improving your English or French language skills. Free resources like the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program offer valuable language training. Additionally, online platforms like Duolingo can be a helpful tool for language practice.

As we continue our exploration of side gigs, our next suggestion taps into the power of online participation through online surveys and focus groups, which require minimal time commitment and can provide a small but consistent income stream.

6. Newcomer Cultural Orientation Assistant

Did you navigate your own settlement in Canada with ease and find helpful local resources? Consider becoming a cultural orientation assistant to guide newly arrived immigrants. Your firsthand experience and understanding of cultural nuances can be invaluable to those just starting their journey in Canada.

This role involves helping newcomers understand Canadian customs, etiquette, and access essential local resources.

You could offer personalized tours of your city, focusing on practical aspects such as:

• Navigating the public transportation system.
• Finding grocery stores that cater to diverse cultural needs.
• Identifying community hubs and places of worship.
• Understanding local customs and social norms.

To market your services, connect with settlement agencies and immigrant-serving organizations in your area. In Mississauga, you could reach out to the Newcomer Centre of Peel or ACCES Employment. In the broader GTA, consider organizations like the YMCA Newcomer Information Centre or TNO – The Neighbourhood Organization in Toronto.

Many ethno-cultural organizations may also be looking for individuals to help their communities integrate.

Pro Tip: Highlight your specific language skills and cultural background when reaching out to these organizations, as they often seek assistants who can connect with newcomers from various origins.

Being able to guide newcomers is key, and if they’re also looking to strengthen their English or French, knowing about the various language support programs available across Canada can be incredibly helpful for them.

Moving from providing direct assistance in navigating a new culture, our next side gig idea explores how you can leverage your skills in specialized translation or interpretation, particularly if you speak a less common language where demand might be high.

7. Specialized Translation/Interpretation Services (Beyond Common Languages)

Do you speak a language other than English or French fluently? If so, your skills could be in high demand for translation and interpretation services within specific communities or for businesses with international clients in Canada.

Mississauga and the Greater Toronto Area boast a rich multicultural landscape, creating a need for various language services. For instance, with a significant population speaking languages like Mandarin, Arabic, and Spanish, your proficiency in these or other less common languages can be a valuable asset.

To tap into this market, consider reaching out to:

• Ethno-cultural organizations: Many cultural community groups need interpreters or translators for their events or communications.
• Immigrant-serving agencies: Organizations assisting newcomers often require translation services to bridge language barriers.
• Translation and interpretation agencies: Numerous agencies in Mississauga and Toronto specialize in language services and hire freelance professionals. Look for companies like JR Language Translation Services or Renaissance Translations.
• Universities and research institutions: These institutions sometimes need translation for documents or interpretation for international collaborations.

Pro Tip: Network within your community and let people know about your language skills. You can also list your services on freelance platforms, specifying the languages you offer.

Our journey through flexible side gig ideas continues with a look at how your practical skills around the house can translate into income by offering handyperson or odd job services to busy professionals in your neighbourhood.

8. Handyperson/Odd Jobs for Busy Professionals

Are you skilled at small home repairs, furniture assembly, or general tasks around the house? Many busy Canadians are willing to pay for reliable help with these odd jobs. As a newcomer, offering your services as a handyperson can be a great way to earn extra income and connect with people in your community.

Tasks can range from assembling flat-pack furniture and minor home repairs to running errands, basic yard work like mowing lawns or raking leaves, and even pet sitting.

To get the word out about your services, consider these avenues:

• Local Community Boards: Many neighbourhoods have online or physical community notice boards where you can advertise your services. Check local libraries, community centers, and even grocery stores.
• Online Platforms: Apps like TaskRabbit and Thumbtack are available in Canada and connect people with local handypeople for various tasks. These platforms often handle payment and provide a level of security for both you and the client.
• Networking: Let your neighbours and acquaintances know about the services you offer. Word-of-mouth can be a powerful tool.

Pro Tip: Emphasize your reliability, attention to detail, and offer fair and competitive pricing to attract clients and build a good reputation.

As we continue our exploration of diverse side gig opportunities, our next section will delve into the world of culinary entrepreneurship, where your passion for cooking authentic ethnic food from your home country can become a source of income.

9. Preparing and Selling Authentic Ethnic Food Online

Do you have cherished family recipes from your home country that everyone raves about? If you have a passion for cooking traditional dishes, you could turn that into a flexible side gig by preparing and selling your authentic ethnic food online to people craving those unique flavours. There’s a growing appetite for diverse cuisines, and your homemade specialties could fill that niche.

You can leverage various online platforms to reach potential customers:

• Local Facebook Groups: Many community-based Facebook groups allow members to promote local businesses and services, including homemade food.
• Food-Sharing Apps: Apps like Flashfood and Too Good To Go (though primarily for reducing food waste, they might offer avenues for connecting with customers) operate in areas like Mississauga.
• Specialized Platforms: Websites like Cookin are designed specifically for home chefs to sell their food online in compliance with local regulations.

Pro Tip: When starting, focus on a few signature dishes that you excel at to build a reputation for quality and authenticity.

Before you start selling, it’s super important to understand the local regulations regarding food preparation and handling in Ontario or Canada generally. Generally, you need to adhere to guidelines about food storage, labelling (including ingredients and allergens), and sourcing your ingredients from approved sources.

Selling potentially hazardous foods like meat and dairy products made in a home kitchen might have restrictions, as might selling home-canned goods. Be sure to consult resources from the Peel Region Health unit or the FreshFind Learning Portal for detailed information on starting a home-based food business legally and safely.

Transitioning from the delicious world of homemade food, our next side gig explores the possibility of becoming a virtual personal shopper for individuals seeking international goods that might not be readily available in Canada.

10. Preparing and Selling Authentic Ethnic Food Online

If you have a passion for cooking traditional dishes from your home country, you could tap into a growing market in Canada by preparing and selling your authentic ethnic food online. Many Canadians, including newcomers, crave those unique and familiar flavours that might not be readily available in local grocery stores.

When I first arrived, I noticed several members in my WhatsApp group started an online marketplace specifically for Nigerian foodstuffs and other ethnic foods that were hard to find here, which shows the demand is definitely there.

To reach customers, you can utilize various online platforms:

• Local Community Facebook Groups: These are great for connecting with people in your immediate area who might be looking for specific ethnic foods.
• Specialized Online Marketplaces: Keep an eye out for platforms catering to specific cultural communities or even consider starting your own simple online store.

Important Note

It’s important to understand and comply with local regulations for selling food online in Ontario. This often includes obtaining a food handler certification. In Ontario, it’s mandatory to have at least one certified food handler on site whenever food is prepared or served in a food premises.

Getting certified through a recognized program like the CIFS Food Handler Certification or In Good Hands will ensure you’re operating safely and legally. You should also be aware of rules regarding labelling, ingredient sourcing, and the types of food you can sell from a home kitchen.

As we move on from the delicious aromas of home-cooked meals, our next side gig idea explores how you can leverage your unique insights and connections by becoming a virtual personal shopper for international goods.

11. Virtual Personal Shopper for International Goods

Do you have a strong understanding of products and brands from your home country that aren’t easily accessible in Canada? You could leverage this knowledge to become a virtual personal shopper, helping Canadians access unique items. This side gig involves sourcing, purchasing, and arranging the shipping of goods from abroad.

Consider focusing on a specific niche to attract a dedicated clientele. Potential niches include:

• Specialty Clothing and Accessories: Offer access to unique fashion brands or traditional garments from your home country.
• Artisanal Crafts and Home Decor: Source handcrafted items that reflect the culture and artistry of your region.
• Gourmet Food Items: Help people obtain specialty food products or ingredients that might be difficult to find in Canada.

To showcase your offerings and connect with potential customers, utilize social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook. Create visually appealing content featuring the products you can source.

Engage with communities interested in international goods and highlight the unique value you provide by bridging the gap to these items. Remember to clearly outline your sourcing fees, shipping costs, and payment methods.

As we continue our exploration of diverse side hustles, our next idea moves into the realm of online engagement, where your opinions can earn you some extra income by participating in online surveys and focus groups.

12. Participating in Online Surveys and Focus Groups

Looking for a side gig that requires minimal time and effort from the comfort of your home? Participating in online surveys and focus groups could be an option. However, it’s worth noting that while the access is easy and the time commitment per task might seem small, it might not be the quickest way to generate significant income, as it can take a while for the earnings to add up.

But if you have some spare moments and don’t mind the time it takes, many research companies in Canada compensate individuals for sharing their opinions on various topics. The barrier to entry is low – all you generally need is an internet connection and some spare time.

Here are a few reputable platforms where you can find online surveys and focus group opportunities in Canada:

• Swagbucks: Offers points for surveys, watching videos, and other activities, which can be redeemed for cash or gift cards.
• Survey Junkie: Focuses primarily on surveys and allows you to earn points for sharing your opinions.
• Branded Surveys: Provides opportunities to earn cash and gift cards for completing surveys.
• Ipsos i-Say: A well-known survey panel where you can earn rewards for your participation.
• Angus Reid Forum: A Canadian market research company that rewards you for completing surveys.

While the earning potential per survey or focus group might not be substantial (often ranging from a few cents to a few dollars for surveys, and potentially more for focus groups), it can accumulate over time. The topics can be quite diverse, ranging from consumer products and services to social issues and current events.

Pro Tip: Be sure to sign up for multiple platforms to increase the number of opportunities available to you.

Building on the idea of exploring different avenues for income, our next side gig idea considers opportunities in less traditional industries that might be open to hiring newcomers for entry-level or part-time roles, potentially offering a different type of flexible income.

13. Exploring Opportunities in Less Traditional Industries

While many newcomers focus on common entry-level roles, consider looking into sectors that might not be the first to come to mind, such as forestry or logistics. These industries across Canada, including Ontario, often have a need for entry-level and part-time workers, and sometimes offer competitive pay compared to more conventional entry-level jobs.

In the forestry sector, potential roles could include forestry technicians or general labourers in forestry operations. Entry-level positions in forestry in Canada can see salaries starting around $47,210 per year [1], which is above the average entry-level salary in Canada of approximately $41,605 annually [2].

The logistics and transportation industry also presents numerous opportunities, from warehouse roles to delivery support. Part-time logistics jobs are available, and entry-level logistics roles in Ontario can range from $15 to $38 per hour [3].

Pro Tip: Don’t overlook these sectors in your job search. Explore online job boards using keywords like “forestry,” “logging,” “warehouse,” “shipping,” or “logistics” to find available positions in your area.

Moving away from specific industries, our next side gig idea broadens the scope to the flexibility of utilizing your existing professional skills in a remote capacity by offering virtual assistant services for specialized tasks.

14. Virtual Assistant for Specialized Tasks

Beyond general virtual assistant duties, if you have specific professional skills from your previous career, you can offer specialized virtual assistant services. This is a fantastic way to leverage your expertise in a flexible, remote setting.

Think about your background – were you an accountant, a marketing specialist, a technical writer, a project manager, or someone with expertise in a particular software or industry?

The beauty of this side gig is that you can target specific industries or organizations that would benefit from your niche skills. For example:

• Accountants: Offer virtual bookkeeping or financial analysis services to small businesses or startups.
• Marketing Specialists: Provide virtual support with social media management, content creation, or SEO optimization for marketing agencies or individual entrepreneurs.
• Technical Writers: Assist tech companies with creating documentation or white papers remotely.
• Project Managers: Help teams stay organized and on track by offering virtual project management support.

Pro Tip: Update your LinkedIn profile and freelance platform profiles to clearly highlight your specialized skills and the industries you have experience in. Reach out directly to businesses or individuals in your network who might need your specific expertise.

As we continue to explore diverse income-generating ideas, our next section focuses on a more direct, personalized approach: offering personalized shopping and delivery services to those who may need extra assistance.

15. Personalized Shopping and Delivery Services

For those who enjoy helping others and have some spare time, offering personalized shopping and delivery services can be a rewarding side gig. Many individuals, especially busy professionals, seniors, or those with mobility issues, appreciate the convenience of having someone shop for their groceries, run errands, or deliver items to their doorstep.

By providing reliable and attentive service, you have a great opportunity to build a loyal client base who will rely on your assistance regularly.

To find clients, consider advertising in places where your target audience is likely to be:

• Local Community Groups: Reach out to community groups listed on the City of Mississauga website or on platforms like Meetup, as these often have members who might benefit from your services.
• Retirement Homes: Many retirement homes in Mississauga, such as Amica Senior Lifestyles or Erinview Retirement Residence, have residents who might need help with shopping or errands. Check if they have community boards or allow for service providers to connect with residents.
• Local Notice Boards: Places like libraries, community centres, and even some grocery stores often have physical notice boards where you can post your services.

Pro Tip: Offer a personalized touch, such as remembering a client’s favourite brands or taking extra care with their purchases, to set yourself apart.

As we continue our exploration of diverse ways to earn income, our next idea taps into the importance of caring for our furry friends by offering pet sitting or dog walking services with a focus on specialized care.

16. Pet Sitting/Dog Walking with Specialized Care

Are you an animal lover? Offering pet sitting and dog walking services can be a fulfilling and flexible side gig in Canada. Many pet owners, especially busy professionals, are looking for trustworthy individuals to care for their furry companions.

Remember that pet owners place immense trust in those who look after their animals, so highlighting your responsibility and genuine care for pets is key.

To enhance your credibility and attract more clients, consider getting certified in pet first aid. This demonstrates your commitment to the safety and well-being of the animals under your care. Here are a few options for pet first aid certification in Canada:

• Canadian Red Cross: Offers an online “First Aid for Dogs and Cats” course.
• Walks ‘N’ Wags Pet First Aid: Provides in-person and online courses with a hands-on approach. You might find local instructors in Mississauga.
• St John Ambulance: Occasionally offers pet first aid courses in various locations, including potentially Mississauga. Check their website for updates.

Pro Tip: In your advertising, emphasize any experience you have with pets, any specific types of animals you are comfortable with, and the fact that you are certified in pet first aid (once you obtain the certification).

As we continue to explore diverse side hustles, our next idea looks at the increasing need for online moderation and community management skills for various online platforms and businesses.

17. Reselling Items Online (Flipping)

Do you have an eye for a good find and enjoy the thrill of a deal? Reselling items online, often called “flipping,” can be a flexible and potentially profitable side gig in Canada. The key is to specialize in a specific niche to build expertise and attract buyers. Consider focusing on categories like:

• Vintage Clothing: There’s a strong market for unique and retro fashion pieces online.
• Electronics: Gently used smartphones, tablets, or gaming consoles can be in high demand.
• Collectibles: This could range from rare books and coins to sports memorabilia or toys.
• Furniture and Home Goods: Smaller, unique pieces often do well on local marketplaces.

To succeed in online reselling, it’s essential to research Canadian consumer trends and popular items for resale. Platforms like eBay Canada, Poshmark (for clothing), Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, and VarageSale are popular choices for Canadians buying and selling used goods.

Pro Tip: Pay attention to the condition of the items you’re selling, take clear and attractive photos, and write detailed descriptions to attract potential buyers. Research pricing trends on these platforms to ensure you’re offering competitive rates.

As we continue to explore diverse side hustles, our next idea delves into the digital realm, looking at how you can offer niche online services based on your unique skills and expertise to a global clientele.

Frequently Asked Questions

References

[1] Talent.com. Forestry average salary in Canada, 2025. Retrieved from https://ca.talent.com/salary?job=forestry
[2] Talent.com. Entry Level average salary in Canada, 2025. Retrieved from https://ca.talent.com/salary?job=entry+level
[3] ZipRecruiter. Entry Level Logistics Jobs in Ontario. Retrieved from https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Entry-Level-Logistics/–in-Ontario