NEWCOMERS

Arriving to a new country can be an exciting and scary process.  We will help you maneuver your way through this new life transition by working with you to create a customized transition plan.  We will create a customized checklist of things to do prior to and after arriving in Canada.  Along with this, we will guide you through the processes of applying for necessary documents and services.

Below you will find simple checklists to help you start planning your preparations before you arrive and after you arrive.

Before you Arrive

• Collect and bring all official documents belonging to you and the family members who are immigrating with you.  Common documents include, but are not limited to:

                                                                                                                                                                                                     

  • birth certificate
  • passport
  • marriage or divorce certificate
  • death certificate for a deceased spouse
  • adoption records for adopted children
  • educational diplomas and certificates; transcripts that list the courses you took to obtain a degree or certificate
  • medical records (prescriptions, vaccination records, test results, x-rays, allergies, etc.,) and dental records
  • Letters of reference from your past employers.
• Purchase private health insurance. This insurance pays for emergency medical costs until you obtain government health insurance in Canada. Private health insurance is necessary because the time between when you apply and when you receive a government health insurance card can be three months or longer.
• Learn more about the province and the city or town where you will settle.
• Plan where you will stay during your first few days in Canada

After you Arrive 

• Apply for a government health insurance card. A government health insurance card allows you to receive taxpayer-funded medical care in Canada. You should apply as soon as possible after arriving in Canada.
• Find a doctor or health-care centre where you can go for your medical needs.
• Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN). You cannot work in Canada without a SIN. You should apply as soon as possible after arriving in Canada.
• Obtain a Canadian driver’s licence if you plan to drive in Canada, or a provincially accepted photo identification card.
• Provide Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) with your Canadian address, so that you may receive up-to-date information, regarding your immigration status, in the mail.
• Open a Canadian bank account.
• Obtain a map and walk around to get to know your city or town and the local services available. Also, research the best way of getting from one place to another using public transportation.
• Learn a convenient way of making telephone calls and accessing the Internet.
• Memorize the national emergency telephone number: 911. If you experience a medical or other type of emergency, do not hesitate to call for help.

We’re here to answer any of your questions. If you require more information or if you would like to book a consult, feel free to contact us.