If you are one of the lucky individuals who are moving to Canada shortly, congratulations! People worldwide long to live in this scenic and prosperous nation, but few get the chance to do so.
It is vital to make appropriate preparations before moving to any new country, and Canada is no exception. This guide will describe seven essential things to prepare before moving to Canada.
1. Immigration Documents
Your immigration documents are arguably the most important thing you need to pack before heading for the airport. This includes:
- Confirmation of Permanent Resident
- Study permits
- Work permits
- Temporary resident visa
You should note that study permits, work permits, and temporary resident visas are required only if you do not yet have your permanent resident status. It may also help to check the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for any additional documents you need to present at the border. This may include:
- Identification documents
- Birth certificates
- Marriage documents
- Work documents
- Education documents
- Financial documents
You can verify if you have the proper documents by checking with Canadian Immigration Consultants beforehand.
2. Warm Clothes
It’s no secret that Canada is among the coldest countries in the Northern Hemisphere. If you currently live in a warmer country near the equator, you need to pack warm clothes. Even the warmer Southern regions of Canada can be chilly at different times of the year.
For example, it’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop under 15o degrees Celsius in the Fall season in Toronto and Vancouver. So be sure to pack a comfortable sweater and long-sleeved shirts before arriving.
If you are touching down in the country during winter, we recommend purchasing a thick winter coat and waterproof rubber boots before departing.
3. Sort Out Your Living Arrangements
You should ensure you have found a place to live before leaving for Canada. It can take a few days to a month to get a rental apartment in most major cities, such as Toronto and Vancouver, so it is best to complete the search process and sign your lease before departing for your new country.
If you must leave for Canada on short notice and do not have any relatives or contacts who can host you after you land, you should consider renting accommodation through services such as Airbnb.
4. Secure a Job
It is essential to have a proper job offer ready before moving to Canada. You may already have a job offer for your initial permanent residence application. However, if you are immigrating through one of the Federal or Provincial immigration programs that do not require a job offer, it is best to start your search at least one or two months before your expected landing date.
Consider applying for jobs online through sites such as Indeed or Monster. You can also try connecting with Canadians in your industry on sites such as LinkedIn and scoping out employment opportunities.
Having a steady income source is essential because the cost of living can be relatively high if you move from a less-wealthy country, so be sure to sort out your job beforehand.
5. Brush Up on Your Language Skills
Canada is a multicultural country home to immigrants from many different countries. You will likely meet many people who speak your native language. However, it is still essential to ensure you are fluent in one or both of the country’s official languages.
Consider improving your English with the help of online resources or classes. If you plan to reside in Quebec, you must ensure you are fluent in French.
6. Learn About GST
If you live in a country where retail prices for goods and services already include taxes, you may be surprised upon entering Canadian stores. The shops in the country generally exclude Goods & Service Tax (GST) from their prices.
This means the final price you will pay at retail checkout counters and online stores will be slightly higher than their listed price. The GST percentage varies from 5% to 15% depending on the province you will be living in. Be sure to familiarize yourself with this tax rate before landing in Canada.
7. Learn About the Culture
As mentioned earlier, Canada is a multicultural country that accepts people from all backgrounds. This means you must also be prepared to be polite and respectful towards others, regardless of their race, sexual orientation, religion, or age.
Canada is considered one of the friendliest and most welcoming countries in the world, and you can help keep it that way by learning about the different kinds of people that live there.
How Elaar Immigration Can Help?
If you plan to move to Canada shortly, we can assist you. Our special Regulated Canada Immigration Consultants team can help verify if you have the proper immigration documents.
We will offer advice and support on how you can find employment or set up a business in your new country. Contact our Immigration consultants in Surrey, BC, today and become prepared for your new life in Canada.
