Phase 1: Your First Week Essentials
Complete these four crucial administrative tasks as soon as you arrive in Canada:
- 1. Obtain Your SIN (Social Insurance Number): Visit any Service Canada center. You need your SIN to work legally and file taxes. Bring your passport and original work or study permit; your number is issued instantly.
- 2. Open a Canadian Bank Account: The major Canadian banks (RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC) offer "Newcomer Packages" with 12 months of free checking, free international transfers, and a credit card without Canadian credit history.
- 3. Get a Local Phone Plan: Canadian mobile service can be expensive. Search for discount brands (e.g. Fido, Koodo, Virgin, or Public Mobile) which use major networks but offer cheaper monthly rates.
- 4. Register for Provincial Healthcare: Apply for your provincial health card (OHIP in Ontario, MSP in B.C., AHCIP in Alberta) immediately upon arrival.
Phase 2: Renting & Housing Rules
Renting a home in Canada involves strict rules to protect tenants. Keep these provincial laws in mind:
- Rental Deposit Rules: In Ontario, landlords can only request first and last month's rent (security/damage deposits are illegal). In B.C. and Alberta, landlords can request a maximum of **50% of one month's rent** as a security deposit.
- Credit History Check: Since you have no Canadian credit score, offer landlords a copy of your bank newcomer statements, employment letters, or U.S. credit bureau scores (Equifax/TransUnion) if moving from the U.S.
- School Registration: If you have school-aged children, enroll them in local public school districts. Registration is free and based on your rental lease address.
Expat Checklist Timeline
Plan your move systematically to ensure you do not miss deadlines:
| Timeline | Task to Complete |
|---|---|
| 30 Days Before Departure | Prepare CBSA Form BSF186 (goods to follow list), book temporary Airbnb/hotel, request credit references. |
| Day of Landing | Activate your permit at border, secure CBSA red stamps on Form BSF186 cargo declarations. |
| First Week | Apply for SIN number, open bank accounts, buy SIM cards, register for provincial health card. |
| First Month | Secure long-term lease, exchange foreign driver's license, set up utilities and home internet. |
Official Government References & Sources
This guide compiles official newcomer checklists and resettlement guidelines sourced directly from:
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Newcomer Guide: canada.ca/newcomer-guide
• Service Canada Social Insurance Number (SIN) portal: canada.ca/sin-registration
Relocation Metrics
SIN ProcessingImmediate (In-Person)
Newcomer Accounts12 Months Free Checking
First Week Tasks4 Critical Items
Landlord DepositsStrictly Regulated