Moving to Canada soon? Checklist for Pre-Arrival to Canada

So, you’ve made the decision to move to Canada.

Congratulations – it’s a big step you are taking but an exciting one. Prepared and organized, you can arrive in Canada with more confidence. Before you pack your bags there are many things to consider, and tasks to complete. This will help you to start your new life in Canada on the right foot.

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Here are some helpful steps to help you get organized.

1. Have your credentials assessed.

If you are planning to work in Canada, it is worth having your credentials assessed. This can help you determine what type of Canadian jobs you’re qualified for, and what additional training you might need to be successful. You can find more information on the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC).^[1]

2. Gather all of your documents.

Get all your documents ready before you leave. Passports for every family member traveling with is included. A ‘best practice’ is to keep these important documents with you at all times – and not packed away in your luggage.^[2]

3. Prepare yourself financially

Moving to Canada can be expensive. Prepare yourself for the financial impact of moving abroad. It’s helpful to be informed about the cost of living in Canada, including housing, transportation, and healthcare.[3]TD offers a wide range of Financial services for newcomersYou can plan and manage your finances prior to your arrival in Canada.^[4]

4. Learn about Employment

You may have a top priority after moving here to find a new job. It’s best to start searching well before you arrive. You can prepare for your job search in Canada by using some excellent resources. The Government of Canada Job Bank provides a wealth of information for newcomers. It includes job listings, insights into the job market and advice on how to write resumes and cover letter that are appropriate for the Canadian employment market.^[5]

5. Choose Your Location

Take time to choose the best city for you before you come to Canada. Canada is a vast country with many vibrant provinces and cities, each with a unique culture and geography. It’s a good idea to investigate the Canada has many different regionsCompare the cost of living and job opportunities in each city.^[6]

6. Improve Your Language Skill.

Did you realize that Canada is a multilingual country? Both English as well as French are the official language of Canada. If you do not speak either language well, you might want to improve your English or French reading, writing, and speaking skills before you arrive. You can find many resources online to help you learn English or French, such as language classes and language assessments tests.^[7]

7. Purchase Health Insurance

As a Canadian, you’ll have access to a public healthcare system. It may take a while for you to be eligible for coverage.^[8] For this reason, it’s a good idea to purchase health insurance to ensure you and your family are covered in the event of an emergency.

8. Prepare yourself for the Canadian climate.

Canada has four distinct seasons, each with their own beauty and unique weather.

● Spring (March 20 to June 20) is a mild but sometimes rainy season. In some places, flowers can bloom as early as April. By May, they are in full bloom. In others, you can enjoy maple syrup festivals, Spring parades – and the start of farmer markets.
● Summer (June 21 to September 22) brings very warm temperatures in many areas, often above 30 degrees Celsius. It’s a lovely time to embrace the great outdoors and go swimming, fishing, and boating.
● Autumn (September 23 to December 21) is a very popular season across Canada with generally temperate weather. The crisp air and vibrant colors as the leaves change from green, to red, orange and gold, are loved by many.
● Winter (December 22 to March 19) can be cold, especially if you are used to a warmer climate back home. Dress warmly and be sure to learn how to drive safely in icy and snowy conditions.^[9]

Ready to bank yet? Find out more about the TD New to Canada Banking Package.

9. Learn about Canadian Newcomer Services.

It’s nice to know there are many helpful services for New Canadians. Check out The Government of Canada’s Settlement servicesThis will help you prepare for your life in Canada.^[10] Look into Canada’s pre-arrival services for additional information and support for New Canadians before packing your bags. This website offers a variety of information to help newcomers settle in.^[11]

Are you interested in learning more about the Canadian lifestyle? This comprehensive guide is available for download. Welcome Booklet.^[12]

It is much easier to move to a foreign country if you have done your research and are prepared. You may feel more confident in your move to Canada if you plan ahead and organize.

Why Choose TD?

150 years of helping Canadians

TD has a proud tradition of providing financial solutions for Canadians over the past 150 years. TD has a century’s worth of experience in helping newcomers navigate through the unique challenges of Canada’s banking system.

TD Bank is Canada’s largest bank, with over a 1,000 branches and a reputation of excellence in financial service. They also offer services in more than 80 languages.

TD offers newcomers online support and resources on topics like moving to Canada and credit score basics. TD is available longer hours to accommodate your needs and has thousands ATMs located across Canada.

Ready to Bank?

Learn more about TD New to Canada Banking Package available today.

Book an appointment to speak with a TD Personal Banker Associates about the TD New to Canada Banking Package. You can Book onlineVisit the website or call us right away. TD WebsiteFind out more.

Disclaimer:We believe that the information provided by TD Bank Group or other sources in this post is accurate and reliable, but we can’t guarantee that it is always accurate, complete or up-to-date. This article is intended for informational purposes and does not provide any financial, legal or accounting advice. It should not be relied on in that respect. This information should not be construed to be a solicitation to purchase. Products and services from the TD Bank Group can only be offered in jurisdictions which allow for their sale. All products, services and agreements are subject to the terms in the applicable agreement. This article may be updated without notice.

^® The Toronto-Dominion Bank and its subsidiaries own the TD logo, as well as other trademarks.

[1] https://www.cicic.ca/927/identify_the_organization_responsible_for_recognition.canada

[2] https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/new-immigrants/prepare-life-canada/border-entry.htm

[3]https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/new-immigrants/prepare-life-canada/prepare-financially.html

^[4] https://www.td.com/ca/en/personal-banking/solutions/new-to-canada/planning-to-move-to-canada

[5] https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/findajob/newcomers

[6] https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/new-immigrants/prepare-life-canada/choose-city.html

^[7] https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/new-immigrants/new-life-canada/improve-english-french.html

[8] https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/new-immigrants/new-life-canada/health-care/universal-system.html

[9] https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/seasonal-weather-hazards/be-prepared-for-winter.html

[10] https://ircc.canada.ca/english/newcomers/services/index.asp

[11] https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/new-immigrants/new-life-canada/pre-arrival-services.html

[12] https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/ircc/migration/ircc/english/pdf/pub/welcome.pdf