What to do after Landing in Canada

What to do after Landing in Canada

What Happens When You Land at a Canadian Airport for the First Time?

1. Identity Check

Upon arrival, be prepared to go through an identity check. This means you will have to provide travel documents, such as your passport or visa, to a border services officer. You will also have to complete a biometrics screening which includes a digital photograph and fingerprints.

1. Meeting Entry Requirements

Different entry requirements will apply based on whether you are a permanent resident, an international student, or a foreign worker.

If you are a permanent resident, you must have your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and permanent resident visa. Learn more about your entry requirements or how to confirm your permanent residency status.

If you are an international student or foreign worker, you must have a valid study permit or valid work permit, a valid Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), and any other documents required by the Canadian Government.

Upon arrival, a border services officer will validate the documents pertaining to your status and ask some questions to ensure you meet all the admissibility requirements.

Important Things You Should Do Immediately After You Have Arrived in Canada

1. Apply for Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)

A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number that the Canadian Government uses to identify individuals who work and pay taxes in Canada.

To apply for a SIN, you must have a valid study or work permit or proof of your permanent resident status and be physically present in Canada.

1. Open a Bank Account

You can open chequing or savings accounts with a Canadian financial institution and after applying can also get access to many other useful services, such as wire transfers, currency exchange, and debit and credit cards often at favourable rates and special discounts. As a newcomer, you may qualify for a special banking package like the TD New to Canada Banking Package or the TD International Student Banking Package.

1. Apply for Government Health Insurance

Canada’s public healthcare system provides basic medical coverage to all Canadian citizens and permanent residents. As a newcomer to Canada, you should apply for Government health insurance as soon as you qualify to help ensure you are covered for medical services.