Stage 1 · 4–8 weeks out
Before you land in Canada.
The weeks before your flight are the best time to sort documents, money and a place to stay, so your first days here go smoothly.
Prep list
- Documents translated
- Temporary housing booked
- Health insurance bought
Countdown
Your prep list, week by week.
Tick these off on paper or in the interactive checklist.
8 weeks outPaperwork
Paperwork
- Check passport expiryValid well past your landing date for everyone travelling.
- Gather originalsBirth and marriage certificates, degrees, transcripts, reference letters.
- Get certified translationsAnything not in English or French.
6 weeks outMoney
Money
- Proof of funds readyOfficial bank letters if your program needs them.
- Plan how you’ll move savingsCompare banks and transfer services early.
- Tell your bank you’re movingKeep one account at home and a card that works abroad.
4 weeks outHousing & health
Housing & health
- Book 2–4 weeks of temporary housingSomewhere you can view apartments from.
- Buy health insuranceFor any provincial waiting period.
- Research neighbourhoodsTransit, rent and schools near likely jobs.
1 week outFinal prep
Final prep
- Plan your phoneUnlocked phone plus a Canadian eSIM or SIM.
- Pack for the seasonIn winter, arrive with a proper coat and boots.
- Make a list of goods to declareTwo copies of your list of personal items and any goods to follow.
Documents pack
What to carry, and what to digitize.
Carry originals in your hand luggage, never in checked bags. Keep scans in secure cloud storage in case anything is lost.
Carry the originals
- Passports for everyone
- Visa, COPR or permit approval letters
- Proof of funds letters
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Degrees and transcripts
- Driver’s licence and driving record
- Immunization records for children
Scan and store securely
- Everything on the left
- Reference letters
- Medical records and prescriptions
- Rental references from home
- Photos of your belongings for insurance
Money before landing
Bring a buffer, not just proof of funds.
Plan for your first month’s rent and deposit, temporary housing, setup costs and several months of living expenses while you job hunt.
- Declare CAD 10,000 or more in cash or cash equivalents at the border
- Bring some Canadian cash for the first few days
- Keep a card that works abroad for early purchases
- Move larger savings in planned transfers, not all at once
Sending money home later? Once you’re settled, compare what arrives before you choose a provider. How to compare
Where you’ll land
Compare cities Choose your first city.
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