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Are you arriving in Canada this year ? There is so much that goes into settling in a new country and knowing what to get after in your first week in Canada will set you up for success. Just like you, I was ecstatic when I first arrived in Canada; I was ready to start exploring my new city right away, but I quickly realized I was getting ahead of myself.

Once you arrive in Canada, there are things you have to get done right away to ensure your transition is stress-free. It is important for you to be as organized as possible, so I’ve put together a detailed list just for you.

What to do in your first week In Canada

1) Get your SIN 

A social insurance number is a unique identifier that is used to keep track of all of your records with the Canadian government. This 9-digit number will be required to create a bank account, obtain employment, and purchase a phone number.

You can apply for a social security number by mail, online, at the airport, or at a Service Canada location near you.

2) Get a mobile line

In Canada, there are several mobile networks including Bell, Telus, and Rogers. You can locate them by going to the nearby mall or one of their stores. To choose the best provider for you, simply choose the one that offers you the best value for your money.

3) Open a Bank Account 

You can open an account with any of Canada’s numerous banks. The Royal Bank of Canada, Bank of Montreal, Scotia Bank, and TD are some of the most well-known banks.

To open a bank account, you must call and schedule an appointment. If you want to open a bank account, I recommend calling them on the phone. Smaller banks, such as Simplii , EQ Bank and Tangerine, typically provide greater interest rates than the big banks. With these aforementioned smaller banks, you can open an account online.

Normally, I advise new immigrants to open two bank accounts, one with a large bank and the other with a smaller bank. Smaller banks have higher interest rates. In addition, I recommend opening a USD account. 

4) Find where to live

Finding a place to live before moving to Canada can be tough, but it is feasible to rent before arriving in Canada. You will, however, need to find a place to reside while in temporary housing. Here are a few places to start searching from:

• Kijiji
• RentCafe
• Padmapper

If you are a student, you will have to decide whether to live off or on campus.

In addition to finding a place, apartments in Canada are usually not furnished. You will also need to set up your new place by:

• Buying Furniture
• Setting up wifi
• Purchasing household items

A good place to start off with all household items are usually Walmart, IKEA & Facebook Market Place

5) Navigate the Transit System In Your Neighbourhood

Once you’ve settled into a permanent home, it’s time to learn how to get around when you need to commute.

6) Get a provincial ID

It is essential to have an ID card so that you can provide proof of identity anytime you are asked. If you intend to get around,  you’ll require an international or provincial identification card. 

7) Sort out your health insurance

You will need to contact your provincial health organization to receive health coverage as a new immigrant in Canada who migrated as a permanent residence. As an international student, speak with your international centre about getting your health insurance set up.

Kickstart Your Career In Canada

8) Revamp your resume

Every country has their style of resume in terms of what the employer wants to see in your resume. This will be useful to help you land your first job in Canada. Here is a sample Canadian-style resume & cover letter.

9) Find a job

This is usually the most difficult part of settling in, however, I recommend that you start looking for part-time and full-time work before you arrive in Canada. The Canadian job market can be difficult to navigate, so the earlier you get started, the sooner you can start familiarizing yourself with the Canadian job haunting process. In no time, you will land your first job in Canada. Here are a few places to start looking for work:

• Career Beacon
• Indeed
• Monster
• LinkedIn
• Eluta

Prepare For Winter In Canada

10) Buy your winter jackets

Regardless of when you arrive in Canada, you must begin purchasing winter clothing as soon as possible. Any jacket you purchased in your native country would not be enough to keep you warm in the cold. 

Get All The Help You Can

11) Sign up with a settlement agency

Settlement agencies help you navigate your new life in Canada from finding a place to live to getting a job. Find the nearest settlement agency near you to find all you need.

12) Reach out to friends & family members already in Canada

People who are already in Canada can provide you with more insight as to all you need to do in the first few months of Canada. Do not hesitate to reach out to them.