One Step at A Time
Newcomers to Canada should always consult the Government of Canada’s website. You will find all necessary questions answered and an endless amount of resources at your disposal. The site is regularly updated with accurate and current data. In this section, you will find a condensed version of the necessary information and essential tools as a starting point for your journey.
The Eight Steps You Should Take Before Coming to Canada
1. Improve your English or French skills to navigate your new country.
2. Choose which Canadian city you would like to live in.
3. Check your occupation through the Government of Canada website on Job Bank.
4. Check career credentials to see if they are recognized. This can be done through a credential agency. Also, you may contact the regulatory body of that profession.
5. Collect all necessary documents, such as passport and birth certificate, Canadian immigration visa or study permit, medical assessments (immunization records), degrees or diplomas, transcripts, letters from employers, bank statements, full disclosure fund statements. Make sure all documents are translated.
6. Get to know Canadian laws and culture through the Government of Canada website
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7. Prepare financially. Evaluate your cost of living to include home, heating and other utilities, food, clothing, health insurance and transportation.
8. Prepare to show your proof of funds. This is a detailed bank statement that proves you have enough money to sustain your livelihood or that of your family’s in Canada. You can find out more about this process here: http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/menu-eng.html
The Six Steps to Take Upon Arrival
1. Obtain your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
2. Obtain your three-month private health care and OHIP
3. Enrolled in Social welfare program
4. Locate your YMCA to join new immigrants integration programs
5. Familiarize yourself with the area (grocery stores, transportation)
6. Locate a job agency
The Most Successful Paths Immigrants have taken
1. Improve work credentials or skills and get them assessed. Check your credential assessment at an agency
2. Get to know Canada
3. Bring the right documents
4. Prepare financially
5. Choose a city
6. Learn English or French
7. Learn what you can bring to Canada