As a new immigrant in Canada, you’re juggling a million things right now. While finding a full-time job is often the primary goal, side hustles provide extra income and valuable experience. Here are 10 side hustle ideas that have worked for others in your situation.
Online Gigs
The digital world offers numerous opportunities you can pursue from the comfort of your home like online tutoring, graphic design, freelance content writing, and digital marketing.
Like tutoring, your language skills can be valuable in the translation market. Websites like Upwork, Freelancer.com, and Fiverr allow you to offer translation services to clients worldwide. Start with smaller projects to build your reputation and client base. Look into local immigrant settlement agencies or international businesses in your area.
Many businesses need help with administrative tasks. Your skills in organization, data entry, and customer service are valuable as a virtual assistant. Skills in demand are email management, appointment scheduling, social media management, and basic bookkeeping.
If you’re savvy with social platforms, many small businesses need help managing their online presence. This social media role allows you to work from home and build valuable digital marketing skills.
Rideshare and Delivery Services
If you have a Canadian driver’s license, consider companies like DoorDash, Uber, SkipTheDishes, and AirCab. It’s a flexible way to earn while getting to know your new city.
Personal Services
Skills like hairstyling, braiding, tailoring, makeup artistry, barbering, photography, balloon decoration, handyperson services (popular in Toronto), or massage therapy are lucrative side hustles. Just make sure you have the proper certifications for Canada.
Learn through online resources and offer services to friends and family to build a portfolio, create a social media presence showcasing your work, and consider mobile services for added convenience. If you’re handy with tools, consider offering your services for home repairs or furniture assembly jobs. Platforms like TaskRabbit can connect you with local clients.
Food-Related Businesses
Home-based cooking and selling of Nigerian (or your native) cuisine. Restaurant business (if you have culinary expertise). Foodstuff supply for fellow immigrants.
Childcare
Nanny services
Real Estate
Selling properties to Nigerians (or other diaspora communities) living abroad.
Event Management
MC services
DJ services
Cleaning Services
House cleaning
Office cleaning
Beauty Services
Eyelash extensions
Nail technician
Wig revamping
Vending Machines
A passive income opportunity worth exploring.
Peer Tutoring
If you’re a student, check opportunities at your college or university. If you’re fluent in multiple languages, consider offering language tutoring services. With Canada’s diverse population, there’s always a demand for language learning.
You can teach your native language or help fellow immigrants improve their English or French skills. Create a profile on tutoring websites like VIPKid or Preply. Offer conversation practice sessions in local cafes. And develop online courses for busy professionals.
Transportation Services
Beyond ridesharing and delivery services, explore other transportation needs in your community.
Ethnic Cuisine Catering
Share your cultural heritage through food. Many Canadians love trying diverse cuisines. Start small by catering for community events or offering meal prep services.
Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Canadians love their pets, and busy professionals often need help caring for them. Another great way to earn money while getting to know your neighborhood.
Seasonal Work
Canada’s weather creates unique seasonal job opportunities. Consider snow shoveling in winter or gardening services in summer.
Online Surveys and Microtasks
While not lucrative, websites like Swagbucks or Amazon Mechanical Turk offer small tasks that can add up over time. This is a good option while job hunting or improving your language skills.
Top Tips for Success
Start with skills you already have or can quickly learn.
Research local demand and competition in your chosen field.
Provide excellent customer service to build a loyal client base.
Use social media and online platforms to market your services.
Network within your immigrant community and attend community events to find opportunities and support.
Remember, as a new immigrant, it’s crucial to understand the legal aspects of working in Canada. Ensure you have the right to work and report all income. Many of these side hustles can be started with minimal upfront costs, making them accessible options for those looking to supplement their income.
Starting a side hustle not only provides extra money but also helps you build a network, gain Canadian work experience, and discover new career paths. Who knows? Your side gig might grow into a full-fledged business someday.
