Essential preparations for immigrating to Canada: 1 month before arrival

At this point, you’ve gathered and prepared lots of documents. Review each one for accuracy and completeness.

Security and accessibility are critical for all your important documents. This includes documents related to work, education and personal documents like birth certificates and marriage certificates, which may be hard to replace.

Make sure your family’s passports, visas and travel documents are easy to access, and stowed somewhere secure. Double check that you have all the necessary documents for every person travelling with you.

A month from arrival, you should have your accommodations booked. Confirm these arrangements, paying attention to terms and durations. This is especially important if it’s a temporary stay while you look for permanent housing.

If you’ve secured a long-term rental or purchase, make sure all agreements and legal papers have been signed. Make sure you understand the move-in process.

Wrap up all your financial affairs in your home country. Close all accounts and subscriptions you won’t be needing.

If you don’t have a Canadian bank account yet, set one up. Transfer funds into it so you have easy access to your money when you arrive.

In some countries, people have financial products from many different institutions — a chequing account at one bank, a mortgage at another, credit cards from others. This is less common in Canada.

Canadian banks are generally considered some of the safest and most stable in the world. As a result, many Canadians prefer to handle the majority of their financial life and banking through a single bank. This can include mortgages, loans, insurance, chequing and savings. Canadian banks can be a true “one-stop shop.”

If you've secured a job, congratulations! Make sure to confirm your start date and any initial expectations or requirements, including proof of employment and professional references.

If you’re still job hunting, be prepared to continue your search after you arrive. Polish up your resume, continue networking online and consider joining professional associations in Canada.

There are also professional groups that meet more casually around areas of interest. Many of these groups are free, and meeting people in person can be very valuable to building your professional network in Canada.

Make sure to spend some time learning about how health care works in Canada Opens in a new window..

Canada has universal health care for Canadian citizens and permanent residents. But each province has its own rules about what’s covered, so it’s important to understand how to access public health insurance Opens in a new window..

Some provinces also have a waiting period of up to 3 months before you can access public health insurance. If so, you may need private insurance to cover you until public insurance is available. Learn more about private insurance in Canada Opens in a new window.. For details, contact your provincial ministry of health Opens in a new window..

Understand how you'll get from the airport to where you’ll be staying. Uber and Lyft operate in most metropolitan areas, as well as taxis and public transportation. If your new home is more rural or suburban, you may need to rent a car or buy a used car.

Packing up your belongings is important.

Decide what to bring with you on the plane, and what to ship. You’ll need to have clothes available that are appropriate for the season you’re arriving in.

If you’re shipping anything, confirm all the details with the shipping company. Be clear about specific arrival dates and the process for clearing your packages with customs Opens in a new window..

Another important aspect of packing is emotional. A big move is a great excuse to give away or sell personal items. Letting go of old things can be very healthy, especially as you plan this exciting new chapter of your life!

Moving to a new country is a big life event. It’s natural to have lots of emotions about it.

Take time with your family to mentally prepare for the change. Talk about any fears or concerns family members have. Plan for maintaining connections with your home country, even if it’s just a WhatsApp call with your friends once a week.

Canada has a number of organizations that provide services for newcomers Opens in a new window.. These organizations, as well as community centres and social groups, can provide friendship and support when you arrive. Reach out to these groups so you have friendly faces and assistance as you adjust to your new life.

Congratulations, you’re in the home stretch. The final month before you arrive in Canada is a time for finalizing your plans so you can go through this transition with ease. From confirming housing and setting up a bank account, to packing your bags and preparing emotionally. With careful planning and attention to detail, you’ll be well prepared for starting your new life in Canada with confidence and peace of mind.