Obtaining permanent residence (PR) in Canada is a dream for many, but after completing planning and status checks, there are 10 crucial steps to take after landing to ensure successful integration. These include planning for your future, envisioning your life, and ensuring your family’s well-being.
List of things to be done
- Activating permanent residency
- Get Social Insurance Number
- Apply For Benefits
- Open Your First Bank Account
- Getting Your First Mobile Connection
- Find Accommodation
- Obtain A Health Card
- Finding a Job
- Learn Canadian values
- Finally Explore
1. Activating permanent residency
To activate your permanent residency in Canada, you must validate your Confirmation of Permanent Residency (COPR) at the first Canadian port of entry. Immigration officers will ask broad questions during the interview, stamping your PR. This can be done online for temporary residents transitioning to permanent residents, or through an online portal for those already inside Canada. A permanent resident card is not immediately given to new permanent residents, but is mailed to their Canadian address provided at the airport or while confirming PR online.
2. Get Social Insurance Number
To work in Canada, Social Insurance Number (SIN) is required. New permanent residents can obtain it at airports like Toronto Pearson Airport, or at Service Canada’s physical locations or online. The SIN can be obtained at weekday hours or mailed to the applicant. Service Canada offices are available at Toronto Pearson Airport.
3. Apply For Benefits
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is responsible for the government and most provinces and territories in Canada. It offers benefits to Canadians with permanent residency, such as the GST/HST rebate, Canada Child Benefit, and Canada Workers Benefit. These benefits are usually automatically paid to tax-paying permanent residents.
4. Open Your First Bank Account
Banking in Canada is straightforward, but account types have varying fees. Choose a bank that meets your needs and open your account first upon arrival to avoid overdrawing your home account or falling behind on payments. Compare ‘Newcomers’ programs and offers’ of different banks, as some may offer iPads or bonuses for newcomers.
5. Getting Your First Mobile Connection
Upon arrival in Canada, it is crucial to obtain a Canadian cell phone plan with good coverage. Cellphone companies, similar to banks, offer attractive plans for new immigrants. Researching options is essential, with Rogers and Bell being major players in the Canadian cellphone industry.
6. Find Accommodation
Finding a suitable area to live in can be challenging but accessible through resources like Kijiji, rental boards, and City Guides. Month-on-month rentals are expensive and difficult to find, while 12-month leases are common in major cities. It’s crucial to review agreements carefully to avoid future conflicts with the owner.
7. Obtain A Health Card
Canada’s government finances healthcare, and having a health card grants eligibility for health benefits. Despite the perception of universal healthcare, Canadians with health cards receive free consultations at walk-in clinics or hospitals but must pay for most medicines at pharmacies. To apply for a health card, visit the provincial service office in your area. Newcomers to Canada may struggle to find a family doctor, so explore options as soon as you arrive.
8. Finding a Job
The Canadian job market is facing challenges due to a decrease in job vacancies, with employers seeking Canadian-experienced professionals. However, there are numerous jobs targeting newcomers, and the government has a dedicated job portal for new immigrants.
9. Learn Canadian values
Canada’s diverse culture requires alignment with its values, emphasizing respect and compassion. Canadians are welcoming and often use “sorry” and “thank you” to express their gratitude. The “C” in Canadian culture signifies compassion, making it an essential aspect of integrating into the Canadian economy.
10. Finally Explore
Before making a decision to settle in a major city like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, it’s advisable to explore nearby cities and appreciate Canada’s beauty. Take time off, join a social group, and do something on your bucket list in your first week in Canada.
