Checklists for What to Do When You Arrive in Canada

It is important to have a checklists for what to do when you arrive in Canada to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s a comprehensive list of things to do upon your arrival:

With family

Immediate Tasks Upon Arrival

1. Document Check: Ensure you have all necessary documents, like your passport, visa, and Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR).
2. Airport Procedures: Follow airport signs for immigration and customs. Present your documents when asked.
3. Welcome Kit: Collect any welcome kits or pamphlets available at the airport. They often contain useful information for newcomers.
4. Currency Exchange: Exchange some money into Canadian dollars at the airport for immediate expenses.
5. Transportation: Arrange transportation from the airport to your temporary accommodation.

First Few Days

6. Temporary Accommodation: Check into your pre-arranged accommodation.
7. Social Insurance Number (SIN): Apply for your SIN at a Service Canada office. It’s essential for working and accessing government services.
8. Bank Account: Open a Canadian bank account.
9. Phone and Internet: Get a local SIM card or mobile plan and set up internet services.
10. Health Insurance: Register for provincial health insurance. There may be a waiting period, so consider getting private health insurance for immediate coverage.

Within the First Month

11. Permanent Accommodation: Start looking for permanent housing. Research neighborhoods and visit potential homes.
12. School Registration: If you have children, start the process of enrolling them in school.
13. Driver’s License: Apply for a Canadian driver’s license if you plan to drive.
14. Local Orientation: Familiarize yourself with local services, transportation systems, shopping centers, emergency services, and recreational facilities.
15. Community Connections: Explore community centers and social groups to meet people and build a support network.

Ongoing Tasks

16. Job Search: If you haven’t secured employment yet, begin your job search.
17. Language Classes: If necessary, enroll in English or French language classes.
18. Government Services Registration: Register for any other relevant government services or programs.
19. Financial Planning: Develop a budget and start planning your finances, including savings and investments.
20. Cultural Integration: Attend local events and participate in cultural activities to understand Canadian culture and integrate into the community.

Health and Safety

21. Emergency Numbers: Memorize important emergency numbers (like 911) and understand when to use them.
22. Medical Services: Identify nearby clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies.
23. Safety Norms: Understand local laws and safety norms to ensure compliance and security.

Legal and Immigration Tasks

24. Immigration Reporting: If required, report your arrival to immigration authorities.
25. Legal Documentation: Keep all your legal documents in a safe and accessible place.
26. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with any changes in immigration policies or legal requirements.

Miscellaneous

27. Weather Preparedness: Understand the local weather and get appropriate clothing and supplies, especially if you’re in a region with extreme weather conditions.
28. Local Networking: Connect with local professional networks and communities related to your field.

With Student Visa

Arriving in Canada as an international student involves a set of specific tasks to ensure a smooth transition into your new academic and social life. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to follow upon your arrival:

Immediate Tasks Upon Arrival

1. Document Verification: Ensure you have your passport, study permit, acceptance letter from your educational institution, and any other relevant documents.
2. Customs and Immigration: Complete all procedures at the airport. Present your documents to immigration officers when asked.
3. Collect Welcome Kits: Many airports offer welcome kits for international students with helpful information.
4. Currency Exchange: Convert some of your money into Canadian dollars for initial expenses.
5. Transport to Accommodation: Arrange for transportation to your pre-arranged accommodation, whether it’s a university dorm or other housing.

First Few Days

6. Check into Accommodation: Settle into your accommodation and check all the facilities.
7. Campus Orientation: Participate in any orientation programs offered by your institution.
8. Open a Bank Account: Choose a bank and open a student account. This is crucial for managing your finances in Canada.
9. Get a Local SIM Card: Purchase a Canadian SIM card for your phone for local connectivity.
10. Acquire Health Insurance: Register for the university health plan or arrange private health insurance if necessary.

Within the First Week

11. Social Insurance Number (SIN): Apply for your SIN at a Service Canada office. It’s needed for working and accessing certain services.
12. University Registration: Complete your university registration and get your student ID card.
13. Course Enrollment: Confirm your courses and class schedule.
14. Local Area Familiarization: Explore the area around your campus and accommodation. Locate essential services like grocery stores, pharmacies, and transportation links.
15. Public Transportation: Understand the local public transport system. Consider getting a transit pass if available.

Settling In

16. Study Permit Conditions: Familiarize yourself with the conditions of your study permit, including work eligibility.
17. Meet the Academic Advisor: Schedule a meeting with your academic advisor to discuss your study plan.
18. Library and Facilities Tour: Familiarize yourself with the university’s library and other facilities.
19. Join Student Groups: Participate in student clubs and organizations to meet new people and integrate into campus life.
20. Set a Budget: Plan your finances, considering tuition, accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.

Health and Safety

21. Emergency Numbers and Procedures: Learn about campus safety and emergency numbers.
22. Health Services on Campus: Locate health and counseling services provided by your university.

Long-term Considerations

23. Work Opportunities: If you plan to work part-time, start looking for on-campus or off-campus opportunities.
24. Networking and Socializing: Engage in networking events and social gatherings to build connections.
25. Cultural Adaptation: Participate in cultural activities and workshops to adjust to life in Canada.
26. Regular Check-ins: Keep in touch with family and friends back home.

Legal and Administrative

27. Keep Documents Safe: Store all important documents in a secure place.
28. Stay Informed: Keep updated with any changes in student visa regulations or university policies.
29. Address Registration: If required, register your address with your home country’s embassy or consulate.
30. Academic Integrity: Understand and adhere to the academic integrity and conduct policies of your university.

With Work Visa

Arriving in Canada with a work permit involves a series of steps to establish yourself both professionally and personally. Here’s a comprehensive checklist for your arrival:

Immediate Tasks Upon Arrival

1. Document Verification: Ensure you have your passport, work permit, job offer letter, and other relevant documents.
2. Immigration Process: Complete all procedures at the airport. Present your documents to immigration officers when requested.
3. Currency Exchange: Convert a portion of your money into Canadian dollars for immediate expenses.
4. Transportation: Arrange for transportation from the airport to your temporary or permanent accommodation.

First Few Days

5. Temporary Accommodation: Check into your pre-arranged accommodation.
6. Social Insurance Number (SIN): Apply for your SIN at a Service Canada office. This is necessary for working and accessing government services.
7. Bank Account: Open a Canadian bank account to manage your finances.
8. Phone and Internet: Get a local SIM card or mobile plan and set up internet services.
9. Health Insurance: Register for provincial health insurance. In the interim, consider private health insurance for immediate coverage.

Settling In

10. Permanent Accommodation: If you haven’t already, start looking for permanent housing.
11. Meet Your Employer: Contact and meet with your employer. Confirm your start date and understand your work schedule.
12. Driver’s License: If you plan to drive, apply for a Canadian driver’s license.
13. Local Orientation: Familiarize yourself with the local area, including transportation, shopping centers, emergency services, and recreational facilities.
14. Community Connections: Explore community centers, social groups, or professional networks to integrate into your new environment.

First Month and Beyond

15. Job Start: Begin your new job. Understand your role, responsibilities, and workplace culture.
16. Government Services Registration: Register for any other relevant government services or programs.
17. Financial Planning: Set up a budget considering your income, living expenses, savings, and investments.
18. Cultural Integration: Participate in local events and activities to understand Canadian culture and integrate into the community.

Health and Safety

19. Emergency Numbers: Learn important emergency numbers and healthcare services available in your area.
20. Safety Norms: Familiarize yourself with local laws and safety standards.

Legal and Immigration

21. Work Permit Conditions: Ensure you understand the conditions of your work permit, including restrictions and validity.
22. Legal Documentation: Keep all your legal documents in a safe and accessible place.
23. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with any changes in work permit regulations or employment laws.

Miscellaneous

24. Weather Preparedness: Understand the local climate and acquire appropriate clothing and supplies, especially in areas with extreme weather conditions.
25. Networking: Engage in professional networking to build connections in your field.
26. Learning and Development: Consider opportunities for further education or professional development to enhance your career prospects in Canada.

With Tourist Visa

Visiting Canada as a tourist can be an exciting experience. To ensure you make the most of your trip, here’s a comprehensive checklist to follow:

Pre-Departure

1. Travel Documents: Ensure your passport is valid. Obtain a tourist visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if required.
2. Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance covering health, travel interruptions, and lost baggage.
3. Accommodation Booking: Reserve your hotels, hostels, or Airbnb accommodations.
4. Itinerary Planning: Plan your trip itinerary, including cities, attractions, and any tours.
5. Transport Arrangements: Book flights, car rentals, or train tickets for intercity travel within Canada.
6. Health Precautions: Get any required vaccinations and pack prescription medicines.
7. Financial Preparation: Inform your bank about your travel dates, exchange some currency to Canadian dollars, and ensure your credit cards are travel-ready.
8. Packing: Pack according to the Canadian weather during your visit, including appropriate clothing, footwear, chargers, and travel adaptors.

Upon Arrival

9. Customs and Immigration: Complete customs and immigration formalities at the airport.
10. SIM Card or Wi-Fi: Buy a Canadian SIM card or arrange for a Wi-Fi hotspot for connectivity.
11. Transport to Accommodation: Use public transport, a taxi, or a rental car to reach your accommodation.

During Your Stay

12. Currency Exchange: Exchange more money if needed, preferably at a bank or official currency exchange.
13. Public Transportation: Familiarize yourself with the public transport system, especially in big cities.
14. Attractions and Activities: Visit planned attractions. Consider purchasing city passes if available for discounts.
15. Local Cuisine: Try local foods and delicacies.
16. Shopping: Explore local markets and shopping centers, adhering to your budget.
17. Cultural Etiquette: Be aware of and respectful toward Canadian cultural norms and etiquettes.
18. Safety Precautions: Stay informed about local emergency numbers and be aware of your surroundings.

Exploring Canada

19. Natural Landscapes: Visit national parks, lakes, and mountains if your itinerary allows.
20. Cultural Sites: Explore museums, historical sites, and cultural landmarks.
21. Local Events: Participate in local events or festivals happening during your stay.
22. Photography: Capture memories with photos, but be respectful of areas where photography may be restricted.
23. Eco-friendly Practices: Be mindful of the environment, dispose of waste properly, and respect wildlife.

Before Departure

24. Souvenirs: Purchase souvenirs for yourself and loved ones.
25. Packing for Return: Ensure all your belongings are packed, including any purchases.
26. Accommodation Check-Out: Complete check-out procedures at your accommodation.
27. Airport Arrival: Arrive at the airport well ahead of your departure flight.
28. Customs and Duty-Free: If interested, explore duty-free shopping and be aware of customs regulations for your return.

Post-Travel

29. Health Check: If you feel unwell after returning, consult a doctor, especially if visiting remote areas.

Pax Law

Explore Pax Law Blogs for In-Depth Insights on Key Canadian Legal Topics!