Newcomers To Canada: 7 Important Things To Do After Arrival

Last Updated On 26 January 2023, 8:53 AM EST (Toronto Time)

If you are a newcomer or someone planning to move to Canada, there are several things to prepare you for your new life in Canada.

Even though the procedure can seem intimidating, the Canadian government provides numerous resources to help immigrants and newcomers at every stage. 

This article enlists 7 things you should do when you arrive in Canada. 

1. Find an accommodation

When you arrive in Canada, you will need a place to stay immediately. Before you arrive, make a reservation for some temporary housing to save yourself some hassle.

Most hotels and hostels let you book a room online, making them excellent choices for short-term accommodation.

However, you can begin investigating a more long-term solution once you have more information about where you intend to reside.

2. Get a Canadian phone number

The process of investigating and evaluating phone plans is not fun. When you’re jet-lagged and tempted to explore your unfamiliar surroundings, it’s even less fun.

However, this exploration will be simpler if you have a local data plan and can navigate using Google Maps.

The sooner you get a local phone number, the more you can avoid expensive roaming fees from your home operator.

Additionally, you should try to align these if you have a two-year visa and are considering signing a two-year contract.

Remember that using caller ID and receiving local calls may result in fees if you don’t have a local number.  

3. Get health insurance

The public health insurance program is open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Once you’ve decided which province you’ll live in, learn what the provincial plan covers.

Each province and territory has its own health insurance plan. New residents may have to wait up to three months in some provinces before becoming eligible for government health insurance.

While you wait, you might get private insurance to cover your needs. You can alternatively get private insurance for any services that your province’s public plan does not cover.

Moreover, some employers in Canada provide their employees with additional health insurance. To learn more about health care in Canada, explore this IRCC page.

Know About 3 Benefits For Newcomers In Canada

4. Obtain a social security number 

Working in Canada requires a Social Insurance Number (SIN), a nine-digit number that will need. In addition, you require to participate in government programs and receive benefits.

To get a social security number, you can request one in person at a Service Canada office or by mail. In addition, you must present an original main document, such as a permanent resident card or proof of ongoing residency, to establish your identification and status.

5. Open an account with a Canadian bank

You ought to open a Canadian bank account as soon as possible. You can open a personal bank account in Canada even if you don’t have a job, a permanent address, money to deposit, a good credit rating, or bankruptcy on your record. 

Simply show proper personal identification when you visit a bank in person. You can often get assistance from the bank teller, and many banks offer services designed especially for people new to Canada.

6. Engage with your neighbourhood

It cannot be very comforting to relocate, especially if you don’t know anyone in the country. However, not only will making new friends make you feel more at home, but it will also expand your professional network and help your job search in Canada. 

It can be highly beneficial for newcomers to connect with other immigrants or Canadians through immigrant-serving groups.

Additionally, you may provide your time to charitable organizations, schools, or community centres in your area.

There are numerous ways to get involved; look for events you can attend to meet people who share your interests.

7. Investigate your city or town 

It can be simple to overlook how exciting this whole thing is between the stress of leaving your life back home and the worry of setting up your new life in Canada.

Remember why you chose to go in the first place. It counterbalances your jet lag and active attempts to establish a life in Canada.

So, climb the Grouse Grind, visit the top of the CN Tower, and rent a weekend car to explore. Try the thing you’ve wanted to do.

You are here. Go outside and explore the city.

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