A complete pre-departure to first-month checklist for moving to Canada.
Overview
Moving to Canada involves a structured process at three levels — federal (IRCC pre-arrival visa, port of entry, SIN), provincial (healthcare, driver's licence, schools), and local (utilities, banking, services). The critical post-arrival timeline: SIN application at any Service Canada office (same-day issuance) → provincial healthcare card registration (some provinces have a 3-month waiting period for OHIP/BC PharmaCare/MSP coverage) → bank account opening → provincial driver's licence (typically within 60-90 days) → school registration if children. Canada's most distinctive feature for newcomers is the provincial nature of many services — what works in Ontario may differ from BC or Quebec. Provincial Settlement Services (funded by IRCC) provide free orientation for new permanent residents. This guide walks through every step, verified against canada.ca, provincial government sources, and the IRCC Welcome to Canada guide.
Pre-Departure (8-12 Weeks Before Arrival)
- Confirm IRCC documentation: Permanent Resident Visa (immigrant visa) or Work Permit + Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) for PR holders.
- Document apostille (post-11 Jan 2024): Birth/marriage certificates, academic degrees + transcripts, police clearance from all countries of 6+ months residence since age 18.
- Certified translation queue: English or French; CTTIC-member translators or your home-country certified translators + notarized affidavit.
- Banking research: RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC all have international banking arms; some allow account opening before arrival.
- International moving company: CAD 3,000-15,000 for international relocation from Europe; more from Asia.
- Pre-arrival settlement services: Canadian government-funded programs (Planning for Canada, Active Engagement and Integration Project) provide pre-arrival orientation.
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See Paid Plans →Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can I get a SIN in Canada?
Same-day at any Service Canada office. Free. Bring passport, CoPR/work permit, address proof. The SIN is your Canadian tax and employment identification number — required for employment, banking, tax filing, government services. Apply immediately after arrival; you cannot start employment until you have a SIN (employer pays no source deductions for tax purposes without it).
Is there a wait time for provincial healthcare?
Depends on province. Ontario (OHIP): 3-month wait from arrival. BC (MSP): 3-month wait from arrival. Alberta Health: no wait. Quebec (RAMQ): no wait for permanent residents. Saskatchewan: no wait. Manitoba: no wait. Atlantic provinces: generally no wait or short wait. During waiting period, private health insurance recommended (CAD 50-300/month for travel-insurance-style coverage).
How long until I can apply for Canadian citizenship?
3 years (1,095 days) of physical presence in Canada in the past 5 years before application. The 3-year clock includes time as a foreign worker, student, or PR — but PR status is required at the application moment. Plus pass Canadian Citizenship Test, B1 oral language ability (CLB 4), 3 years of tax filings, no current criminal proceedings or removal orders.
Can I drive in Canada on my foreign licence?
For 60-90 days from arrival (varies by province). After that, must convert to provincial licence. Reciprocal-agreement countries (UK, US, Australia, NZ, South Korea, Japan, Germany, France, Switzerland, several others) have direct exchange. Outside agreements: theory + practical tests required. Provincial driver's licence required for purchase of vehicle, vehicle insurance, and many other procedures.
How does Canadian healthcare work for new arrivals?
Provincial healthcare system (Medicare). Each province manages its own. OHIP (Ontario), BC MSP, Alberta Health, RAMQ (Quebec), etc. Covers all medically-necessary primary and hospital care. Doesn't cover prescription medications (most provinces) or dental/vision (most provinces) — supplementary insurance common via employer or private. Free for residents enrolled in provincial coverage.
How does Canadian income tax work?
Federal CRA + provincial tax. Total marginal rates 15-53% depending on province. Most workers on T4 payroll withholding. Annual return (T1) filed by 30 April for previous calendar year. Quebec residents file separate provincial return with Revenu Québec. Foreign-source income generally not taxed for non-residents; full taxation as resident. Tax treaties may reduce double taxation.
Can I bring household goods to Canada duty-free?
Yes — items in your possession for 6+ months before becoming a Canadian resident are personal effects, duty-free. Submit Form BSF186 (Personal Effects Accounting Document) at border. Vehicles imported as personal effects must meet Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) — some modifications may be required. New items purchased shortly before moving may attract duty + GST/HST.
What is the residency obligation for Canadian PR holders?
730 days of physical presence in Canada during any 5-year period. If you spend less than 730 days, you risk losing your PR status. Travel outside Canada for work/family reasons may count toward the obligation in specific narrow circumstances. The obligation applies continuously — measured at the time of any inquiry by IRCC. PR holders are encouraged to maintain Canadian ties (tax filings, bank accounts, real estate) even when temporarily abroad.