Moving to a new country can be a whirlwind of excitement, nerves, and lots of questions. When you first step foot in Canada, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, unsure about what to do next or where to head first. Having been through this myself and helping many others, I want to share some essential steps you should take during your first few weeks in Canada — or honestly, any new country you move to. These tips will help you get settled, avoid common pitfalls, and start your new life on the right foot.
Table of Contents
- 1. Get Your Study Permit or Work Permit Printed at the Airport
- 2. Apply for Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- 3. Choose When and Where to Get Your Cell Phone Plan
- 4. Open a Bank Account and Get a Credit Card
- 5. Find an Immigrant-Serving Organization
- 6. Sort Out Your Health Insurance
- 7. Arrange Temporary Accommodation First
- 8. Start Your Job Search
- 9. Get Your Driver’s License or a Bus Pass
- 10. Explore, Socialize, and Enjoy Your New Life
- FAQs About Arriving in Canada
1. Get Your Study Permit or Work Permit Printed at the Airport
One of the very first things you’ll do when arriving in Canada is getting your study permit or work permit printed by immigration officers at the airport. This permit is super important because it officially allows you to live and study or work in Canada. Although immigration officers usually won’t forget to give it to you, it’s crucial that you check every detail on the permit before leaving the airport.
Make sure your name, date of birth, and all other information are 100% correct. Fixing errors after you leave the airport can be a real headache — trust me, I’ve been there. Also, remember that your study or work permit works hand-in-hand with your visa. If you plan to leave and re-enter Canada, both must be valid.
If you’re a permanent resident arriving for the first time, you’ll come in with your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and passport. Your Permanent Resident (PR) card will be mailed to the address you provide, usually within a few weeks.
2. Apply for Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
The Social Insurance Number, or SIN, is essential for working and accessing government benefits in Canada. Think of it as your personal identifier in the system. You’ll need to keep it safe and only share it when necessary — like with your employer once you have a job, when opening a bank account, or when filing taxes.
You can apply for a SIN right at the airport if you arrive during business hours. Otherwise, you’ll need to visit a Service Canada office nearby. To get your SIN, bring your passport and immigration documents (study permit, work permit, or COPR).
Also, your SIN is usually valid for the duration of your immigration document. For example, if your study permit is for one year, your SIN will be valid for the same period. If you extend your studies or work permit, you’ll need to update your SIN accordingly.
3. Choose When and Where to Get Your Cell Phone Plan
Having a Canadian phone number is important for communication, job hunting, and settling in. But here’s a tip: I generally don’t recommend getting a cell phone plan or SIM card right at the airport. The deals there might not be the best, and you won’t get a local area code that matches where you’ll be living.
For instance, if you’re moving to Thunder Bay, the area code is 807. But if you buy your SIM card in Toronto, you’d get a Toronto area code like 416 or 647, which might confuse local contacts.
Wait until you arrive in your city of residence to shop around for cell phone plans. Canada has many providers like Bell, Fido, Telus, and others offering competitive deals, especially for newcomers.
4. Open a Bank Account and Get a Credit Card
Opening a bank account is a must when you arrive. But don’t stop at just a debit card! Getting a credit card early helps you build your credit history, which is super important if you plan to stay in Canada long-term.
Your credit score affects your ability to get loans, buy a car or house, and even rent apartments. Landlords often check credit history before approving tenants.
Big Canadian banks like TD, Scotiabank, RBC, and Tangerine offer special newcomer programs with perks like no-fee accounts or discounted services. To open an account, you’ll need your passport and SIN. Take advantage of these newcomer offers to make your transition smoother.
5. Find an Immigrant-Serving Organization
Settling into a new country is easier when you have the right support. Immigrant-serving organizations are government-supported groups designed to help newcomers. They offer free services like job search assistance, school information for your kids, settlement advice, and more.
Use online tools to find the closest immigrant-serving organization to your address or postal code. Don’t hesitate to reach out—they’re there to help you navigate the early days of your Canadian journey.
6. Sort Out Your Health Insurance
Health is wealth, especially when you’re in a new country! In Canada, health insurance coverage depends on the province. For example, Ontario has OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan), but international students usually aren’t covered under OHIP.
Most schools provide special health insurance for their international students, which is often included in tuition fees. When you arrive, visit your school’s international department to clarify your coverage.
Once eligible, you can register for provincial health insurance cards, like the OHIP card in Ontario. This ensures you’re covered for medical emergencies and basic healthcare.
7. Arrange Temporary Accommodation First
Finding permanent accommodation immediately can be tricky. That’s why I always recommend planning temporary housing before arriving. Options include Airbnb rentals, hotels, or monthly apartments without long-term leases.
Use this time to explore your city, attend apartment viewings, and meet people. Websites like Kijiji, Rent Panda, and Facebook Marketplace can help you find a wide range of rental options.
Planning this way gives you flexibility and prevents the stress of rushing into a lease that might not suit your needs.
8. Start Your Job Search
Finding a job is a priority for many newcomers. Besides using immigrant-serving organizations, take initiative by dropping resumes at local companies you’re interested in. Start with local businesses and check online job boards like Indeed.
Job fairs organized by colleges, universities, or community groups are excellent opportunities to meet multiple employers in one place. Also, create a LinkedIn profile to network professionally.
The more proactive you are, the better your chances of landing a job.
9. Get Your Driver’s License or a Bus Pass
If you plan to drive in Canada, getting your driver’s license early is important. You can use your foreign license for up to 60 days, but after that, you’ll need to exchange it for a Canadian one. Starting this process right away saves you from last-minute stress.
If you’re not driving, getting a bus pass is a cost-effective way to get around. Some schools offer free bus passes for students, so check with your institution’s international office. Otherwise, public transit passes or Presto cards (in some cities) are good options.
10. Explore, Socialize, and Enjoy Your New Life
Finally, don’t forget to enjoy yourself! Moving to a new country can be lonely, especially if you don’t know anyone. Make an effort to explore your city, find new hobbies, and meet people. Join communities or groups that align with your interests.
If you’re in a French-speaking province like Quebec and English is your first language, consider learning French to ease communication.
Remember, this is your new adventure. Embrace the culture, practice gratitude, and find joy in small moments. That’s how you truly settle in and thrive.
FAQs About Arriving in Canada
Q: Can I get my Social Insurance Number (SIN) at the airport?
A: Yes, if you arrive during business hours, you can apply for your SIN at the airport. Otherwise, visit a nearby Service Canada office with your passport and immigration documents.
Q: Do I have to get a Canadian phone number right when I arrive?
A: It’s not mandatory. It’s often better to wait until you reach your city of residence to find better deals and get a local area code.
Q: How long can I use my foreign driver’s license in Canada?
A: You can use your foreign driver’s license for up to 60 days after arrival. After that, you’ll need to exchange it for a Canadian license.
Q: What documents do I need to open a bank account?
A: Typically, you need your passport and Social Insurance Number (SIN). Some banks may have additional requirements.
Q: How do I find immigrant-serving organizations near me?
A: Use government websites where you can enter your postal code or address to locate the nearest immigrant-serving organizations offering free support services.
Q: Am I automatically covered by provincial health insurance?
A: Not always. Coverage varies by province and immigration status. For example, international students in Ontario usually have to rely on their school’s health insurance, not OHIP.
Moving to Canada is an exciting journey, and preparing for these important first steps will help you settle in smoothly. Remember, take your time, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to seek help. Welcome to your new adventure!
