First Steps After Arriving in Canada
Your first few weeks in Canada are crucial for establishing yourself. Here's a priority checklist of essential tasks to complete as soon as possible after your arrival.
Apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN): Visit a Service Canada centre with your documents to get your SIN, which you'll need for employment and accessing government services.
Register for Provincial Health Insurance: Apply for health coverage in your province or territory. There may be a waiting period.
Get Your Credentials Assessed: Have your foreign education and professional credentials evaluated for Canadian equivalency.
Exchange Your Driver's License: If eligible, exchange your foreign driver's license or start the process to obtain a Canadian one.
Setting Up Essential Services
Banking Services
Opening a Canadian bank account is essential for managing your finances and establishing credit history.
- Choose from major banks: RBC, TD, Scotia, BMO, CIBC
- Bring proper identification and proof of address
- Consider starting with a chequing and savings account
- Ask about newcomer banking packages
Housing & Accommodation
Finding suitable housing is one of your first priorities. Options include temporary and permanent accommodations.
- Temporary: Hotels, hostels, Airbnb, extended stays
- Rentals: Apartments, condos, houses, basement suites
- Use platforms: Kijiji, PadMapper, Rentals.com
- Understand tenant rights and lease agreements
Transportation
Understanding transportation options will help you navigate your new city efficiently.
- Public transit: Buses, subway/metro, light rail
- Get a transit pass or card for convenience
- Consider bike-sharing programs in many cities
- Uber, Lyft available in major urban areas
Communication Services
Stay connected with family, friends, and potential employers through reliable communication services.
- Mobile carriers: Rogers, Bell, Telus, Freedom Mobile
- Consider prepaid plans initially
- Internet providers vary by region
- Bundle packages often offer savings
Understanding Canada's Healthcare System
Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system that provides essential medical services to residents. Understanding how it works is crucial for your health and well-being.
Provincial Health Insurance
Register immediately upon arrival
Each province has its own health insurance plan. Apply as soon as you arrive, but note there may be a waiting period (up to 3 months in some provinces).
Find a Family Doctor
As soon as you're registered
Having a family doctor is important for ongoing healthcare. Some areas have doctor shortages, so you may need to join a waiting list.
Walk-in Clinics
For non-emergency care
If you don't have a family doctor, walk-in clinics provide medical care for minor illnesses and injuries.
Emergency Services
24/7 availability
In emergencies, go to the nearest hospital emergency room or call 911. Emergency services are covered by provincial health insurance.
Cultural Integration and Community Connection
Integrating into Canadian society involves understanding cultural norms, building social connections, and participating in community life.
Canadian Social Etiquette: Canadians value politeness, punctuality, and personal space. "Please," "thank you," and "sorry" are commonly used.
Community Centers: Local community centers offer programs, language classes, and social activities for newcomers.
Canadian Holidays: Learn about statutory holidays like Canada Day, Thanksgiving, and Victoria Day when businesses are closed.
Language Skills: Continue improving your English or French through community programs and conversation groups.
Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteering is a great way to meet people, gain Canadian experience, and give back to your community.
