Secured your immigration visa and ready to embark on a new life in Canada? Excitement aside, it’s natural to feel a bit lost about what comes next. Wondering what to keep in mind for your inaugural landing in Canada? Don’t fret—Wetop Immigration Services has got you covered with this essential guide for first-timers.
Please note: Individual circumstances vary, so take this as a guide.
Passport, Visa, and Landing Period
Key off the bat: your landing timeline. Unlike tourist visas, immigration visas are a one-shot deal, usually valid for a year post-medical exam. You could land as a family unit or have the principal applicant land first, followed by others. It’s crucial that all applicants land within their visa’s validity period—ideally three months before expiry—and secondary applicants shouldn’t precede the principal one. For Dingyou Immigration clients, we’ll ensure you’re clear on your latest landing date. Remember, your Chinese passport must be valid at the time of landing.
Heads Up: Try to avoid changes in marital status or offspring before landing. If necessary, get in touch with your immigration consultant.
Immigration Status Documents
Confirmation of Permanent Residence, is an important document you need for your first landing. It usually consists of two longer pieces of paper (Legal size). Keep them on you when landing; one with your photo, which the immigration officer will keeps, and the other one without photo, gets signed by the officer and returned to you. This document is crucial; make sure it’s signed and kept safe.
Photos
Prepare two recent photos for the PR Card. If they’re less than six months old by landing time, they’re still good. Otherwise, it’s picture time again. For photo specifics: https://www.wetop.ca/post/photograph-specifications
Flight and Luggage Tips
Book early to save on flights. Avoid busy seasons like summer and Christmas. Check the airline’s policy on refunds and luggage. Keep it light and legal—no banned items. Adults can bring in 1.5 liters of wine or 1.14 liters of spirits, and 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars. Check visa policies for layovers and choose flights wisely based on luggage and personal needs.
Residential Address in Canada
Provide a residential address in Canada upon landing for your PR Card. This can be a friend’s or relative’s. Make sure it’s correctly spelled and mail-ready.
Driving License from Other Countries
With a notarized translation, your driving license from another country can shorten the wait for a Canadian G2 license. It’s valid for three months post-landing.
Cash and Assets
Bring along cash, bank drafts, stocks, etc., with no cap on the amount—just ensure it’s legally obtained. Declare if carrying over ten thousand Canadian dollars. Opening a Canadian bank account beforehand is advisable for easy access post-arrival.
Item Checklist
Depending on the length of your stay, prepare your items. New immigrants are tax-exempt on first-entry belongings. Consider shipping large items and provide detailed lists for both carried and shipped goods.
After Arrival
PR Card
It arrives by mail in about six weeks from landing day and is necessary for re-entry to Canada.
SIN Number
Essential for work, taxes, and social benefits. Apply ASAP.
Health Card
Grants access to healthcare services. Procedures vary by province.
Banking
Debit and credit cards are vital for building credit history. Choose wisely and keep up with payments.
Mobile Plan
Based on your needs and budget.
Driver’s License
Transition to a Canadian license promptly for insurance reasons..
Child Benefits
Apply if you have dependents.
Language Schools
Improve English and learn about Canadian culture.
Annual Tax Filing
Keep tabs on your assets and file taxes by April each year.
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