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July 21, 2022 By Editor-in-Chief

How to Settle in Canada: An Immigration Guide

Are you thinking of moving to Canada? If so, then you’re in for an amazing adventure! This country is one of the most beautiful and welcoming places on Earth, and it has something to offer everyone. 

If you already know all of this and are excited to start a new chapter of your life in Canada, we’ll walk you through the process step by step.  

You’ll learn what requirements you need to meet, the preparations you need to make, and what to expect once you arrive in your new home. 

Let’s get started!

Step 1: Make sure your passport and visa are up to date

The first step to settling in Canada is making sure that you have a valid passport and visa. 

Depending on your country of origin, you may need a visa to enter Canada. 

You can check with the Canadian Embassy or Consulate in your country to find out what the requirements are. Once you have your visa, make sure to keep it up-to-date; if it expires, you will need to apply for a new one.

Your passport should be up to date before traveling. Some countries require that your passport be valid for six months after your planned departure date, so it’s best to renew it if it’s getting close to expiring. 

Step 2: Start gathering the required documents for Express Entry

After obtaining a valid passport and visa, you can start gathering other required documents to begin the process of applying for Express Entry. This process will help you become a permanent resident in Canada.  

Here is a list of the documents included in the application process: 

  • A valid passport and visa
  • An approved language test
  • Proof of your educational qualifications if you are a skilled worker
  • Proof of a Canadian job offer or provincial nomination
  • Proof of funds, such as a bank statement or pay stubs
  • Proof of your financial situation, such as bank statements or pay slips
  • A medical examination report
  • Police certificates
  • Birth certificates for any children you are bringing with you
  • Any documentation that proves your current marital status
  • Official vaccination records

Start gathering these documents as soon as possible, as it can take some time to track everything down. 

Step 3: Get your finances in order

If you are interested in being a permanent resident of Canada, you must demonstrate that you are financially independent and able to support your family. 

Depending on the size of your family, the number of Canadian Dollars you are expected to have with you will vary. There are a few different ways to get your finances in order before moving to Canada. 

  • Open a Canadian bank account and transfer money into it from your home country. 
  • You can bring cash with you when you move, or set up a wire transfer from your home bank to a Canadian bank.
  • If your home bank is a Canadian bank affiliate/partner, you may be able to open an account with them that allows you to transfer funds directly to a Canadian bank. 
  • You can use a service like Western Union or MoneyGram to send money to Canada.

Just make sure that you have all of your financial paperwork in order before you leave so that you can prove to Canadian officials that you have the means to support yourself.

Step 4: Create a budget for your first three months

Creating a budget for your move will ensure that you don’t overspend and put yourself in a difficult financial situation once you arrive in your new home.

There are a few things that you should take into account when creating your budget, such as the cost of rent, food, transportation, health insurance, and your daily expenses.  You may also have some additional expenses to factor in, such as moving expenses, downpayments, or application fees. 

Make sure to research the average cost of living in the city or town that you’re planning on moving to so that you have a good idea of how much money you’ll need to budget for.

 Step 5: Plan your housing arrangements

Once you have all your documents and finances in order, it’s time to start looking for a place to live. If you’re moving to a big city, there are a few things you need to take into account. 

First, you need to decide what kind of housing you’re looking for. Do you want to rent an apartment, buy a house, or live in a shared house? 

Second, you need to think about your budget. How much can you afford to spend on rent or a mortgage each month? 

Third, you should consider a location that is right for you. How far are you willing to live from work or school? Do you prefer to live somewhere urban, or more residential? Once you’ve answered these questions, you can start looking for housing. 

There are a few websites you can use, such as Rentals.ca or Zillow. Sometimes people post listings for subleases or roommates on social media as well, though you should always be cautious when discussing housing with strangers. 

Step 6: Line up your employment opportunities 

Before you move to Canada, it is important to make sure you have lined up your employment opportunities. 

This can be done by researching the job market in the city or region where you will be moving, and by applying for jobs in advance. A job offer will make it easier for you to gain permanent residency status. 

There are also many websites and job search engines that can help you find employment in Canada. These include:

  • Job Bank Canada
  • Indeed Canada
  • Monster Canada
  • CareerBuilder Canada

By taking the time to research and apply for jobs before you move, you can ensure financial stability and a smoother entry process.

Step 7: Prepare for language tests

It is important to have a strong command of the English language before moving to Canada. 

To gain permanent residency status, you will need to pass an approved language test, such as the IELTS. 


Many employers in Canada seek candidates with high levels of English proficiency. Whatsmore, being able to communicate effectively can make a big difference in your ability to find work and settle into your new home.

There are many ways to practice your English, including taking classes, using English in conversation, and immersing yourself in English-language media. 

If you put in the effort to practice your language skills before making the move to Canada, you’ll be well-positioned to take advantage of all the opportunities that come your way.

Step 8: Make a list of what to bring

Now that you’ve taken care of the practicalities, it’s time to start packing! But before you start throwing things into boxes, try making a list of what you need to bring with you. 

This will help ensure that you don’t forget anything important, and it will also help you stay organized during the packing process. Remember, the cost of moving can often be quite hefty, so try to decide what you must bring and what you can purchase after you are in your new home. 

Some things to remember to bring with you when moving to Canada include:

  • Changing your currency to Canadian currency
  • Clothes for all seasons (it can get cold!)
  • Toiletries
  • Bedding
  • Electronics and adapters, if needed
  • Books and other entertainment
  • Jewelry and antiques

This is just a basic list of things to remember to pack when moving to Canada. You may need to bring other items as well, depending on your circumstances.

If you want to bring vehicles, alcohol, tobacco, or farm equipment into the country, you will need to pay duty on these items.

Embrace the adventure

While it can be helpful to create a plan, your move might not be hiccup-free, and that’s okay! 

Remember to embrace the journey, and to find joy in the process. Things can always be replaced, so don’t stress out about what you end up forgetting or losing along the way. 

Be flexible in who you are and what you want to do, you may find that a new career, community, or hobby awaits you! 

If you want to move to Canada with only a vague plan and the clothes 

Don’t go through the Canadian immigration process alone – let Express Entry PR assist you!

If you are thinking of moving to Canada, or if you have recently made the move, it’s important to understand the process and what is required to make a successful transition. 

Our immigration guide provides an overview of the steps involved in settling in Canada as well as some helpful tips on what to do before and after arrival. 

Whether you are looking for work, studying, or just want to enjoy all that this amazing country has to offer, our team at Express Entry PR can help make your dream a reality. 

If you have any questions or would like more information, please do not hesitate to visit our website today.

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