Tenancy Rights for Newcomers and Refugees in Ontario

Moving to Ontario as a newcomer or refugee brings many changes—including learning your rights and responsibilities when renting a home. Ontario's tenancy laws protect all renters, including those who have recently arrived or are settling after seeking refuge. Understanding your tenancy rights can help you avoid misunderstandings and support a positive start in your new community.

Key Laws and Protections for Newcomers and Refugees

Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 covers nearly all rental situations, regardless of your immigration status or how long you’ve lived in Canada. You do not need to be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to have rights as a tenant in Ontario.^[1] If you rent a house, apartment, or shared accommodation, these rules apply to you—just as they do for any Ontario resident. The Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) is the official tribunal handling rental disputes.

Deposits and Payment Basics

In Ontario, landlords can only ask for specific types of deposits:

• Last month’s rent (but never more than one month’s rent upfront)
• Key deposit (the amount must be reasonable and refunded when keys are returned)

Landlords may not ask for a security deposit for damages, nor for additional deposits because you are a newcomer or refugee. Learn more about your protections by reading Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Signing a Rental Agreement

All tenants—including newcomers—should receive a written rental agreement (lease). The government provides a Standard Lease form available in multiple languages. This agreement outlines important terms like rent amount, payment dates, and the responsibilities of both tenant and landlord.

After you and the landlord sign a rental agreement, both parties are protected. For detailed info, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Safe and Healthy Housing

Landlords must provide safe, well-maintained, and healthy rental units. You have the right to heat, clean conditions, and repairs—regardless of your immigration status. If you're facing health or safety problems in your rental, you should notify your landlord in writing and keep records of your communication.

For more on this important topic, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

If Problems Arise: Your Rights and Resolving Issues

If you face issues like repairs not being done, unfair treatment, or eviction threats, you have the right to seek help—just like any other tenant. The Landlord and Tenant Board offers a free dispute process.

If you receive a notice or eviction letter, do not leave your home right away. Seek advice or support, and respond using official forms.

Key Forms for Tenants

• Ontario Standard Lease: Used to formalize a new tenancy. Download the form from the Ontario government’s official website. Example: When renting your first apartment, make sure your landlord fills out this form with you.
• Form T2 (Application About Tenant Rights): File this if your rights are violated (e.g., if a landlord withholds services, harasses you, or enters illegally). Learn and submit this form at the Landlord and Tenant Board’s forms page.
• Form N9 (Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy): If you want to end your tenancy, fill out and submit this to your landlord. Available via the LTB forms page.

Finding a Rental: Tips for New Arrivals

It can be challenging for newcomers and refugees to find housing when they lack local references or credit history. However, landlords are not permitted to discriminate based on where you are from, your race, religion, or immigration status. Ontario’s Human Rights Code protects you from unfair treatment by landlords.

For a broader overview of your rights, visit Tenant Rights in Ontario.

FAQ: Newcomer and Refugee Tenancy Rights in Ontario

1. Can landlords refuse to rent to me because I am a newcomer or refugee?
   No. Landlords cannot refuse applications based on citizenship or immigration status. This is protected by Ontario’s Human Rights Code.
2. What if my landlord asks for more than one month's rent as a deposit?
   Ontario law allows only a last month's rent deposit. Any request for more is not permitted.
3. Do I need Canadian credit history or references to rent?
   No. While landlords can ask for references, they cannot deny you housing just because you have none or because you’re new to Canada.
4. Where can I go if my landlord is not making needed repairs?
   You can contact your landlord in writing and, if unresolved, file a complaint with the Landlord and Tenant Board using Form T2.
5. Are all tenants covered by the same laws, regardless of immigration status?
   Yes. As long as you are renting and your unit is covered by the Residential Tenancies Act, you have the same rights as any other tenant in Ontario.

Key Takeaways for Newcomer and Refugee Tenants

• You have the same tenancy rights as other residents in Ontario.
• Landlords cannot ask for extra deposits or refuse to rent to you due to your newcomer or refugee status.
• Always use government forms and seek support if you face any housing problems.

Knowing your tenancy rights will help protect you and ensure a safer start in your new home.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB): For dispute resolution, forms, and official guides
• Renting in Ontario—Your Rights: Ontario government tenant overview page
• Settlement support: Settlement.org renting guide
• Local legal clinics: Free legal advice for eligible tenants on housing or tenant disputes

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 — Ontario e-Laws
2. Landlord and Tenant Board — Tribunals Ontario

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