Landing checklist for newcomers to Canada

Before you land

4–8 weeks out

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Check your passport's expiryMake sure it stays valid well past your landing date. Renewing from Canada takes time.
Gather originals and certified translationsBirth and marriage certificates, degrees, transcripts and reference letters. Guide
Prepare proof of fundsIf your program requires it, bring recent official bank letters. Guide
Book temporary housing for 2–4 weeksTime to view apartments in person before you sign anything. Guide
Buy health insurance for any waiting periodCover the gap until your provincial health plan starts. Guide
Plan your phoneBring an unlocked phone and choose a Canadian eSIM or SIM for day one.
Plan how you'll move your savingsCompare banks and transfer services before moving large amounts. Guide
Research schools and childcareChildcare waitlists can be long; start before you arrive. Guide
Sign up for free pre-arrival servicesGovernment-funded services help many newcomers prepare before landing. Guide

Days 1–7

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Declare cash of CAD 10,000 or more at the borderTell the border officer about all funds you're bringing in.
Apply for your SINFree, at Service Canada or online. You need it to work and get paid. Guide
Open a bank accountBring your passport and landing documents. Ask about newcomer packages. Guide
Get a Canadian phone numberA prepaid plan avoids a credit check while you build history.
Get a transit cardPRESTO in Toronto and Ottawa, Compass in Vancouver, OPUS in Montreal.
Apply for your provincial health cardApply as soon as you have an address. Guide

Days 8–30

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Visit a free settlement agencyGovernment-funded help with jobs, housing and forms.
Give IRCC your Canadian mailing addressPermanent residents: within 180 days of landing, so your first PR card is free.
Sign a lease after viewing the unitNever pay a deposit before you've seen it and verified the landlord. Guide
Set up utilities and tenant insuranceMany landlords require tenant insurance before move-in.
Get a secured credit cardUse it lightly and pay it in full to start your credit history. Guide
Register children for schoolBring proof of address, immigration documents and immunization records. Guide

First 90 days

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Apply for the Canada Child BenefitNew residents with children apply with form RC66.
Apply for the GST/HST creditNew residents apply with form RC151.
Exchange your driver's licenceYou can only drive on a foreign licence for a limited time.
Get your credentials assessedNeeded for many regulated jobs and some immigration programs. Guide
Set up a low-fee way to send money homeCompare what your family receives, not just the fee. Guide