Religious Practices Guide for Expats in Canada

Published on September 30, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Canada is a multicultural country where religious diversity is widely accepted and protected by law. However, for expatriates settling in Canada, it’s important to understand the local religious landscape and its impact on daily life. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of religious practices in Canada and important considerations for newcomers.

Canada’s Religious Landscape

Canada is historically a majority Christian country, but secularization and immigration have significantly changed the religious landscape in recent decades. According to recent statistics:

– Approximately 53% of Canadians identify as Christian (primarily Catholic and Protestant) – 34.6% report no religious affiliation – 4.9% are Muslim – 2.3% are Hindu – Other groups such as Sikhs, Jews, and Buddhists each represent less than 2% of the population

It’s important to note that religious practice varies considerably by region. For example, Quebec has experienced strong secularization, while the Prairies remain more religious. Major cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver are very religiously diverse.

Impact of Religious Practices on Daily Life

Although Canada is a secular state, certain religious practices still impact daily life:

• Major holidays like Christmas and Easter have Christian origins and are widely celebrated
• Sunday generally remains a day of rest, with reduced opening hours for many businesses
• In some provinces, alcohol sales are restricted on Sunday
• Public schools typically observe Christian holidays

However, Canada strives to accommodate religious diversity:

• Many employers offer floating holidays for non-Christian religious celebrations
• Schools and universities often make accommodations for students of various faiths
• Hospitals typically offer halal and kosher meal options

Major Religious Holidays in Canada

Here’s an overview of the major religious holidays celebrated in Canada:

Christian Holidays: – Christmas (December 25) – Good Friday and Easter (variable dates in March/April) – Thanksgiving (second Monday in October)

Jewish Holidays: – Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur (September/October) – Hanukkah (November/December)

Muslim Holidays: – Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr (variable dates) – Eid al-Adha (variable dates)

Hindu Holidays: – Diwali (October/November) – Holi (March)

Sikh Holidays: – Vaisakhi (April)

Behavioral Codes and Adaptations for Expatriates

To integrate harmoniously, expatriates should consider the following points:

Respect for Diversity: Canada values multiculturalism. It’s important to respect all beliefs and religious practices.

Discretion in Religious Expression: Although religious freedom is protected, ostentatious religious expression in public spaces can sometimes be perceived negatively, especially in Quebec.

Adaptation to Local Calendar: Expatriates must adapt to the Canadian holiday calendar, which may differ from their home country.

Sensitivity to Regional Differences: Attitudes toward religion can vary by province. Quebec, for example, tends to favor stricter secularism in the public sphere.

Participation in Local Celebrations: Participating in local holidays, even without adhering to the beliefs, is often appreciated and can facilitate integration.

Religious Freedom in Canada

Canada guarantees freedom of religion and conscience in its Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This means that:

• Everyone is free to practice their religion or practice none
• Discrimination based on religion is prohibited
• Employers must provide reasonable accommodations for religious practices
• Public schools must remain religiously neutral

However, there are limits to religious expression, particularly when it conflicts with other rights or public safety.

Resources for Expatriates

Expatriates wishing to practice their religion in Canada have numerous resources:

• Places of Worship: Most Canadian cities have places of worship for various religions
• Community Associations: Many religious communities have associations that can help newcomers
• Government Services: Immigration services often provide information about religious resources
• Online Groups: There are many Facebook groups and online forums for expatriates of different faiths

Conclusion

Understanding and respecting local religious practices is essential for successful integration in Canada. Although the country is largely secularized, it offers an environment where religious diversity is generally well accepted and protected. Expatriates must find a balance between expressing their own beliefs and respecting Canadian cultural norms.