What to do after Arrival in Canada

Canada is renowned for being one of the most welcoming countries for newcomers, encompassing international students, permanent residents, and foreign workers.

Nevertheless, the experience after arrival in Canada for the first time can be overwhelming. In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive guide on what to anticipate and the essential steps to take before and after landing in Canada.

Getting Ready for Your Journey to Canada

Before traveling to Canada, ensure that you are eligible to enter and that you have all of the necessary paperwork. In order to come to Canada as a student, you should:

• have valid study permission or a letter of introduction proving you were granted a study permit unless you don't require one, and
• be enrolled in an approved learning institution. We recommend that you travel to Canada as soon as possible after receiving your visa in order to avoid the hectic travel periods in late August, early September, and early January.

Documents Required

Do not travel to Canada until you have obtained your visa and/or letter of introduction if you have applied for a study permit (and, if applicable, a work permit). Before leaving, go over all of the documents and make sure all of your information is correct. Please contact Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada if any of the information is not accurate. None of your documents should be kept in your checked luggage.

To enter Canada, you must have the following documents: 

• an acceptable travel document, such as a passport.
• the port of entry letter of introduction sent by the visa office when your study permit was accepted, or a valid study permit if it was already issued.
• a copy of your school's official admission letter.
• a valid eTA, a valid visa, a valid green card, or another valid travel document.
• evidence of financial support to sustain your stay in Canada.
• no felony or immigration-related convictions (unless pardoned or judged rehabilitated).
• have proper immigration medical exam results (find out if you need one) and be in excellent health.

What to expect when you arrive in Canada

After arrival in Canada, it's possible that you might encounter extended waiting periods at the border processing, which are required to finalize all essential documentation. 

A border services officer (BSO) will advise you to the appropriate location to submit your study permit application. International students arriving in Canada are processed separately at some airports. Please keep an eye out for signage leading you to this designated area.

Before leaving the student processing counter after receiving your study permission, carefully review the information on the permit and remedy any inaccuracies.

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

Identity Check

Prepare to go through an identity check on your arrival in Canada. This means you'll have to show a border services officer your travel documentation, such as your passport or visa. A biometrics screening, which includes a digital photograph and fingerprints, will also be required. This procedure assists the Canadian government in verifying your identity and keeping Canada secure.

Meeting Entry Requirements

You must have a valid study permit or work permit, a valid Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), and any additional paperwork necessary by the Canadian government if you are an international student or foreign worker. When you arrive, a border services officer will authenticate your documents and ask you some questions to ensure you meet all of the admissibility requirements.

Necessary things that should be done immediately after Arrival in Canada

Apply for Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)

A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number assigned by the Canadian government to persons who work and pay taxes in the country. You should apply for a SIN as soon as possible as an immigrant to Canada since you will need it for employment, to submit taxes, and to access government benefits and services. To apply for a SIN, you must be physically present in Canada and have a valid study or work permit. Visit the Government of Canada's website for further information on how to apply for a SIN.

Open a Bank Account

It is critical to open a bank account in Canada to assist you manage your finances. By initiating the process of opening a chequing or savings account with a Canadian financial institution, you can unlock a range of valuable services, including options like wire transfers, currency conversion, and debit/credit card offerings, often accompanied by favorable rates and exclusive discounts. As a newcomer, you may be eligible for specialized banking packages such as the TD New to Canada Banking Package or the TD International Student Banking Package.

Apply for Government Health Insurance

Canada extends essential medical coverage through its public healthcare system to all citizens and permanent residents. If you're a newcomer to Canada, it's crucial to seek Government Health Insurance as soon as you meet the criteria to ensure your access to medical services. It's important to note that each province and territory has its own distinct healthcare system. Therefore, it's advisable to apply for health insurance in the specific province or territory where you intend to reside. Take the time to understand the eligibility requirements and application process for government health insurance.

Embarking on your journey to Canada is a thrilling yet intricate process that requires detailed preparation and adherence to crucial steps. It's crucial to ensure you possess all the necessary documents and make arrangements for a seamless arrival in Canada because every detail counts. With unwavering determination and a well-guided approach of an experienced overseas education consultant, individuals can overcome challenges and turn their aspirations of studying, working, or immigrating abroad into reality. Boasting an impressive track record of over 38,000 success stories, Pyramid eServices stands out as the paramount choice for study abroad visa services. We are dedicated to facilitating a comfortable and successful journey to Canada, providing unwavering support throughout the entire process. You could be the next individual to carve a success story, and we invite you to reach out to us now at 92563-92563 to take the first step towards an enriching educational adventure abroad.

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