Getting Started in Canada

Whether you're preparing to move, have just arrived, or are beginning to settle in, we'll help you focus on what matters most at each stage of your journey.

Before You Leave for Canada

Moving to Canada involves more than booking a flight and packing your belongings. A little preparation before you leave can save you time, money and unnecessary stress once you arrive.

  • Gather Your Important Documents                                   
    Start collecting important records well before you leave. Think beyond passports and immigration papers—medical, educational, employment and family records may all be important once you arrive.
  • Prepare for Your Health Needs
    Before leaving, collect relevant medical and dental records, prescription information and details of any continuing treatment. Make sure you also understand what medical coverage you'll have when you arrive in Canada.
  • Protect Your Employment History
    Before leaving your employer, collect references, proof of employment, training certificates and other professional records you may need in Canada. If your job can be done remotely, it may also be worth discussing that possibility before you resign.
  • Don't Leave Your Driving History Behind
    If you've been driving for years, obtain official records of your driving and automobile-insurance history before leaving. These records may be much easier to obtain while you're still dealing directly with your existing insurer.
  • Decide What Is Really Worth Bringing
    Moving internationally can make it tempting to bring everything. Before packing, consider what it will cost to ship, what it would cost to replace in Canada, and whether electrical appliances and electronics will actually work properly here.
  • Prepare Yourself and Your Family Too
    Moving countries can bring excitement, uncertainty and stress at the same time. Talk openly as a family about the move, including what everyone is excited about and what they may be worried about. You don't have to have every answer before you leave.

 YOUR FIRST WEEK 

Your First Week in Canada

1.

Take Care of the Immediate Essentials

 Your first few days are about getting settled. Make sure you have a safe place to stay, a working phone or internet connection, access to your money, and the basic things you need for everyday life.

2.

Get Your Essential Services Set Up

Start putting the basics in place: your Canadian phone service, banking, transportation and the identification or government services you'll need. You don't have to complete everything immediately—focus first on what you need to function day to day.

3.

Start Building Your New Routine

 Once the immediate essentials are handled, begin learning your surroundings. Find your nearest grocery stores, transit options, pharmacy and other services you'll use regularly. A little familiarity can quickly make a new place feel more manageable.

Your First Month in Canada

Find More Permanent Housing

If you're still in temporary accommodation, begin looking seriously at your longer-term housing options. Consider location, transportation, work, schools and the true monthly cost—not just the rent.

Get Your Finances Organized

Make sure your Canadian banking is working properly and begin organizing your monthly budget. Learn how credit works in Canada, keep track of your spending, and understand the regular costs of your new life.

Begin Your Job Search

If you're looking for work, start building momentum. Update your résumé, reconnect with professional contacts, explore Canadian job sites and begin applying for suitable positions.

Take Care of School and Family Needs

If you have children, begin settling them into school and their new routine. Learn about local schools, childcare, recreation and other services that can help your family adjust to life in Canada.

Understand Your Healthcare Options

Make sure you understand how healthcare works in your province, what coverage you have, and where to go when you need care. Find a pharmacy and begin looking for a family doctor or other primary-care options.

Build Your Transportation Plan

Work out how you'll get around day to day. Learn your local public transit options and, if you plan to drive, begin understanding the licensing, insurance and vehicle requirements in your province.

Start Building Your Local Network

Begin making connections in your community and profession. Settlement organizations, community groups, neighbours and professional contacts can all help you learn how things work and feel more connected.

Begin Building Your Life in Canada

Your first month is also about beginning to feel settled. Explore your community, establish everyday routines and give yourself time to adjust. Building a new life takes time—you don't have to accomplish everything in the first few weeks.

Your First Month Is Only the Beginning

Your first month is about getting established. The months that follow are about building on that foundation—housing, work, finances, healthcare, community and the many decisions that come with creating a life in Canada.

 EXPLORE YOUR FIRST 90 DAYS →