Canada Newcomer Checklist: Your First Week Step by Step

Arriving in Canada is exciting—and a bit overwhelming. Between paperwork, housing, and figuring out daily life, your first week can set the tone for your entire settlement journey. This checklist is designed for newcomers, immigrants, and international students to cover the essentials of your first seven days in Canada.

1. Gather and Secure Your Documents

• Passport & visa/permit: Keep both digital and paper copies.
• Social Insurance Number (SIN): Apply online or visit a Service Canada office.
• Proof of address: Even temporary housing works for initial processes.
• Digital folder: Scan and back up your documents in cloud storage.

2. Get a Local Phone Number

• Choose a prepaid SIM or entry-level plan.
• Confirm coverage in your city and check international calling rates.
• Having a Canadian number makes banking, job applications, and rentals much easier.

3. Open a Bank Account

• Most banks offer newcomer packages with no fees for the first year.
• Bring your passport, study/work permit, and proof of address.
• Ask about debit cards, credit card options, and online banking.
• Building a credit history starts from day one—pay bills on time.

4. Register for Health Coverage

• Each province has its own health card system (e.g., OHIP in Ontario, RAMQ in Quebec, MSP in British Columbia).
• Some provinces have waiting periods (up to 3 months).
• Consider temporary private insurance during the gap.
• Locate your nearest walk-in clinic for non-emergencies.

5. Find Temporary Housing (Safely)

• Start with short-term rentals (Airbnb, student residences, or trusted platforms).
• Avoid sending deposits in cash or via untraceable transfers.
• Always request a written lease agreement for longer stays.
• Walk around neighborhoods before committing to a long-term lease.

6. Learn Transportation Basics

• Purchase a monthly transit pass or reloadable card (Presto in Ontario, Opus in Quebec, Compass in BC).
• Download official transit apps for schedules and maps.
• Explore bike-share or car-share options if available.

7. Prepare Your Canadian-Style Resume

• Keep it one or two pages maximum, focusing on measurable achievements.
• Do not include photos, marital status, or age.
• Adapt each resume to the job posting using keywords.
• Create or update your LinkedIn profile with your new Canadian city.

8. Budget for Your First Month

• Common expenses: rent + deposit, food, transit, phone, health insurance, winter clothing.
• Compare prices at affordable supermarkets (Walmart, No Frills, Super C).
• Use coupon apps like Flipp to save money on groceries.

9. Prepare for Canadian Weather

• Layering is key: thermal base, warm mid-layer, waterproof jacket.
• Invest in proper boots if arriving before winter.
• Don’t buy everything at once—prioritize essentials and shop sales.

10. Connect With Community Support

• Join local newcomer centers (YMCA, settlement agencies, cultural associations).
• Look for volunteer opportunities to build networks and practice English/French.
• Join newcomer and cultural groups on Facebook, WhatsApp, or Telegram.

Quick FAQs

Do I need a Canadian credit score to rent an apartment?
Not immediately, but landlords may request references or larger deposits.

Can I open a bank account without permanent residency?
Yes. Most banks accept newcomers with study or work permits.

Is health care free right away?
It depends on the province. Some require a waiting period before coverage starts.

Conclusion

Your first week in Canada doesn’t have to be stressful. With this checklist, you can cover the essentials—documents, health, housing, work, and community. Take it one step at a time, stay organized, and you’ll feel at home much faster.