Just Moved to Canada? Here’s Your Essential Newcomer Checklist
Landed in Canada and feeling clueless? Relax—you made it through the airport. Now, let’s get your first few weeks as smooth as a maple syrup pour.
Welcome To Your New Beginning
Relocating to a new country isn’t just about unpacking your bags. It can be a new life experience. Whether you’re here to work, study, or join family, there are a few important things you could do to ease the journey. This newcomer settlement checklist for Canada will take the guesswork out of what you need to do to settle. It will inform you about the essentials without the fluff and confusion.
First Things First: Documents & Identity Checks
When you first arrive:
- A border officer will check your travel documents,
- You may be asked to do biometric screening – photo and fingerprints,
- Be prepared to show your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), or permits (work/study),
- Always check your paperwork before traveling – the last thing you need is to have issues on your first day by not having the necessary paperwork.
Get the Basics Done
Here are some things to take care of right when you get there:
- Apply for Your SIN (or Social Insurance Number)
This is needed to work, pay taxes, and receive government services. You can apply for your SIN online or in person at a Service Canada Centre. No SIN = no job = no paycheck. It’s simple.
- Apply for Provincial Health Insurance
Each province has a different process for health insurance. Don’t delay, apply as soon as you can, and be covered when you need medical assistance. You will need to show proof of ID and you are a resident.
- Open a Local Bank Account
You will need a Canadian bank account to receive payments, pay rent and build your credit. Many banks have packages for newcomers, and some have perks such as no fees for the first 12 months! Bonus: It makes you feel like a real local when you tap your card at Tim Hortons.
Next Steps to Start Feeling at Home
Find Permanent Housing
Temporary stays are nice, but there is nothing like your own place. Start by searching through online listings and see if there are any newcomer housing programs in your area.
Get a Local SIM Card
Canadian mobile plans can be quite expensive, so be sure to compare providers before you sign a contract. Many providers offer plans specifically for newcomers.
Get Familiar with the Local Transit System
Transit systems are different in every city. Get yourself a reloadable card (such as Toronto’s PRESTO card) and use transit apps to get familiar with your area.
These practical steps are part of settling in Canada for immigrants, but they also help you to feel emotionally settled down too! Every checklist ticked off is a win—so celebrate the small victories.
What Comes Next?
As you settle, you’ll find your rhythm. The first steps after arrival in Canada may seem overwhelming, but they lay the foundation for your future here.
Need some expert help? VisaExperts has been supporting newcomers for over 30 years. From pre-arrival planning to post-landing steps, we help guide you through each milestone of immigration with confidence and clarity.
Welcome to Canada—where the winters are cold, but the opportunities are warm.
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