As a newcomer to Canada, it is important to plan well before you arrive in Canada or even start planning at the time you apply for permanent residency, study permit, or work permit. Here is a referenced only checklist on essential items you may need to prepare or consider as a newcomer:

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BEFORE ARRIVAL

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• Know your DESTINATION: Research your new province and city you are going to live in, including but not limited to cost of living, housing options, key public services contact, and labour/ job market.

• Secure your ACCOMODATION: Research your preferred choice of home (condo, apartment, town house, or detached house) in your chosen neighbourhood secure it, whether it is for rental or purchase. You can seek help from the Canadian Mortgage & Housing Corporation (CMHC) to understand more about tenant’s rights and obligations in Canada.

• Get ready your IMMIGRATION DOCUMENTS: Make you have valid passport and necessary immigration documents required by IRCC for landing, like Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), temporary visa, work visa, ETA, etc.

• Collect other OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS: Gather or apply for important official documents (with photocopies) for use in Canada, in birth certificates, marriage or divorce certificates, vaccination and medical records, educational certificates and transcripts, drivers’ licence, police certificates, etc. If they are not in English or French, remember to have your documents translated.

• Exchange for Canadian Currency: Exchange enough Canadian currency or bring a multicurrency debit card for immediate usage after landing.

• Purchase necessary INSURANCE: Obtain the right health insurance to cover yourself and your family until you are eligible for the provincial health-care benefit. You would need to buy the homeowner or tenant insurance for your new home. Consult a licensed insurance broker for advice.

• Check CUSTOM requirement: Research the Canada Custom website on what can and cannot be brought to Canada, the necessary forms to fill in, and follow the procedures specified.

• Book your TICKET: Fix your arrival date, book your travel ticket(s), and pre-arrange your transportation to your home.

• Make online appointment for GOVERNMENT SERVICES: Prebook time slots for Social Insurance Number (SIN), health card, driver’s license, etc, to minimize the waiting time for different government services.

• Build your Canadian RESUME: Research and create a Canadian-style resume that outstands your skills and experiences.

• Credential Assessment: If you are coming to work or study, particularly in specific professions or trades, remember to research or check with the relevant professional organization or education institutions to have your education qualifications, work experiences, and/or professional credentials assessed or accredited.

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AFTER YOUR ARRIVAL

• Access Immigrant-Serving organizations: Canada has many immigrant-serving organizations that help newcomers settle in and integrate with Canada. They offer help on language improvement, job searching, community integration, and secure home. You may even connect with them before arrival.

• Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN): SIN is required for work, taxes, and accessing government benefit and services. You can apply it at the Service Canada Centre.

• Apply for a HEALTH insurance card: Research and understand about the Canadian healthcare system and how to access it in your province. If eligible, you should apply health card for each family member to access government-subsidized medical care. Ministry of Health in the province where you live should be contacted.

• Open a Canadian Bank Account: You can research on the Canadian banking industry by visiting the Canadian Bankers Association (CBA) website and decide which bank you would like to open an account with to manage your personal finances.

• Build your Canadian CREDIT history: Good credit history would help you lower your interest cost for mortgage, credit card, car loan, etc. Also, approval should be easier for applications like post paid mobile services and line of credit. Please consult your banker on what product is an effective way to build your credit history in Canada.

• Apply for a DRIVER’S licence: Find out the rules for you to exchange your foreign driver’s license with Canadian license at your province. Written tests and driving tests may be required. Plan ahead for a smooth transition.

• Explore your NEIGHBOURHOOD: Explore your new neighbourhood, meet new neighbours, and find out different transportation options around your new home.

• Store the EMERGENCY numbers: 911 for police, fire, and ambulance.

• Enroll your child in SCHOOL: Contact the public/ Catholic school board near your new home and register your child as soon as you arrive in Canada. Free public education is available to every child in Canada.

• Polish your LANGUAGE capability: English and French are the official languages in Cananda. Proficiency in either (or both) of the languages is crucial for integration and success. You can enroll in government funded language classes.

• Track your PERMENANT RESIDENT (PR) Card: Remember to follow up with IRCC office if you do not receive your PR Card from IRCC within two months from your date of arrival.

• Learn about Canadian TAX System: You should understand your tax obligations and credits/benefits as a newcomer to Canada. Learn how to file your taxes and apply for different social benefits.

• Find a FAMILY doctor: Search and register a family doctor as early as possible. You may contact Ministry of Health in your province for help too.

• Start NETWORKING: Building networks with other newcomers, professionals, volunteers, and neighbourhood community is important for settling in Canada.

• Understand about Canadian CULTURE: Learn about Canadian customs and etiquette. It is essential for a smooth community integration.