Relocating to a new country is at one and the same time exciting and overwhelming. With splendid landscapes, varied culture, and great life quality, Canada is definitely among the most sought-after places in the world. To reduce any hassles in the transition of moving to another country, it is very important to get prepared in advance. Here’s an all-inclusive pre-arrival checklist that will be very beneficial for you, hence getting you ready for moving to Canada.
1. Research Visa and Immigration Requirements
Before you make any plans, find out more about visa and immigration requirements that apply to your situation. Canada has options for work permits or student visas, or permanent residency. You’ll want to see if there’s a possibility of visa options on the official Government of Canada website, then see if you’d be eligible.
Tip: Start very early, since document acquisition and approval usually take some months.
2. Secure Accommodation
Once you have decided on a city, find a place to live. Explore different cities and their neighbourhoods to decide where to settle. Websites like Craigslist, Kijiji, and Realtor.ca will help in rentals and real estate listings.
Tip: Think about temporary accommodation for the first few weeks while looking for permanent housing.
3. Plan Your Finances
It’s important to understand how much of the cost of living in Canada you may need. Make a budget including these costs: housing, transportation, food, healthcare, miscellaneous expenses, etc. Ensure one saves up enough so that the first few months are covered.
Tip: Open Canadian bank account as soon as possible. Most banks have newcomer packages; they can provide no-fee bank accounts and credit card options.
4. Gather Important Documents
Having all your documents in order will help you go through a smooth transition. These will include your passport, visa, birth certificates, marriage certificates, academic transcripts, medical records—basically, any other documents of importance.
Tip: Keep both digital and physical copies of these documents in a secure place.
5. Healthcare System
The country has both a public healthcare system that caters to its citizens for medical coverage. You should research the healthcare in your province since each province has its regulations and requirements. You’re most likely to apply for provincial health insurance.
Tip: You can purchase some private health insurance to cover this initial waiting period until your provincial health coverage kicks in.
6. Learn About Canadian Culture and Laws
This will help you learn the culture, customs, and laws of Canada so that your settling becomes easier. This understanding will therefore help you fit well into the Canadian society at large both as a social person and an employed professional.
Tip: Such online forums and expat groups can be greatly helpful in getting valuable insights and good advice from people who have gone ahead in this journey.
7. Prepare for the Weather
Canada’s weather can get to extremes, from scorching summers to biting winters. Check the climate of your destination city and pack accordingly. Quality winter wear is well worth the investment, especially if you are moving to one of the really cold parts of the country.
Tip: Layering will keep you warm in the winters. Pack warm boots, gloves, and hats.
8. Subscribe to a Mobile Phone Plan
You will also need a Canadian mobile phone number upon arrival. You will need to look into the plans available and providers to find a suitable package. Most offer specialized packages for newcomers.
Tip: Consider opting for a SIM card that has an international roaming plan, so you remain connected during your travel and first few days in Canada.
9. Register Your Children for School
If you are moving with children, research the education system in the province you will be living in. Canada does have public and private schooling, and your children will need to be registered in advance. Be sure to gather all relevant documents such as birth certificates, past school records, and vaccination records.
Tip: Most schools have slightly different enrollment procedures, so it is best to contact them directly for requirements.
10. Seek out employment
Job searching can be a time-consuming process, so early initiation is required. Update your resume to meet the requirement for find a job in Canada, make a professional online profile on LinkedIn, and network. Do some research on the industries and companies in your field, and think about contacting recruiters.
Tip: This could also include volunteering or other work experience, in addition to internships, to gain experience in the Canadian work environment and develop professional connections.
Conclusion
Moving to Canada is not an easy life-changing decision. Proper preparation, however, can make this transition as seamless as possible. As such, this pre-arrival checklist is meant to help you set up most of the things that you may need in kick-starting your life in the Great White North. Embrace the journey, and welcome to Canada!
Emigrantz Global Consultancy registered and partnered with ICCRC (ICCRC – R407847) has more than a decade’s experience in the immigration industry. We have been fulfilling the needs of Permanent residency, student visa, business visa and work permit aspirants for Canada along with other countries.
We are just a call / email away to help you in making your dreams come true.
Contact us on: +966-547598555 / 966-569521000 / 966-541219841
Email: info@emigrantz.com / contact@emigrantz.com