Planning your move from Dubai to Canada can feel overwhelming, but having a clear post-arrival checklist ensures you stay on top of essential tasks. Also, to handle the heavy lifting, literally and figuratively, consider hiring trusted international movers to Canada. That way, you can focus on settling in and starting your new chapter with peace of mind.
Let’s get started with that checklist:
1. Carry all the Documents
When you land in Canada, the airport officials will ask for your passport, visa, and other travel documents. Keep all important papers in your carry-on bag for quick and easy access. They may also ask why you came to Canada and what you plan to do here. Answer clearly and politely. After this check, they will allow you to enter the country.
2. Get a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
You should apply for your SIN soon after you arrive in Canada. There is no fee to apply. Bring your passport and immigration papers (like your Confirmation of PR). The officer will give you a number on the spot or send it by mail. Applying to SIN is also a requirement for children who are 12 years old or above. They will also need their ID. This number is important for both adults and older children so they can work or go to school in Canada.
3. Find Housing
If you have not arranged long-term housing yet, you may first stay in a hotel or an Airbnb for the first few days. This gives you a safe base and time to do some research. Realtor websites would be a good starting point to find apartments and houses according to your needs and budget. Go through the lease carefully before signing and ask for any clarification on utilities and maintenance, if needed.
4. Apply for Health Insurance
Canada has public health care, but you must register to use it. Apply for a provincial health card in your province or territory. Be aware that in many provinces, there is a waiting period before your coverage starts. In some places, you may wait up to 2–3 months for full coverage. So, make sure you have temporary or private insurance just in case.
5. Open a Bank Account
Open a Canadian bank account early and sign up for online banking or the bank’s app. This lets you check your balance and pay bills online. In addition, you can exchange some of your money or withdraw cash in Canadian dollars for regular expenditure like groceries, travel, etc.
6. Set Up Your Phone and Internet
Upon arriving, you can buy a prepaid or postpaid SIM card at the airport, a mall store, or a phone shop. It is ideal to buy from major providers for uninterrupted services. You can also arrange for home internet service by contacting an internet company once you have a fixed address.
7. Transportation
In most Canadian cities, public transit is clean, reliable, and safe. If you think that you will be using it frequently, get the monthly transit pass. But if you plan to drive a car, bring your UAE driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) from Dubai. With a valid UAE license and IDP, you can usually drive in Canada for a short time after arrival (often up to 3 months, but check your province’s rules and regulations). After that period, you must get a Canadian driver’s license.
8. Prepare for the Weather
Canada’s weather can be extreme. In many places, temperatures can drop well below 0°C. So, pack warm clothes such as a heavy winter coat, insulated boots, gloves, a hat, and a scarf. Even if you arrive in summer, bring at least one warm jacket or a sweater for cool evenings or unexpected cold snaps.
9. Enroll Children in School or Childcare
If relocating with children, register them in local schools or daycares. Each province has different rules on school registration. So, prepare birth certificates, immigration papers, school-leaving certificates and proof of address for admissions.
10. Connect with the Local Community
Connecting with the community eases adaptation. Look for cultural associations or expat groups from Dubai or the UAE. You can also use social media platforms or community centers to find events. This sort of community participation and networking helps you and your kids get acquainted with the new culture and build meaningful relationships that support your transition and integration into Canadian society.
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