Newcomer roadmap
Your move, one practical step at a time
Tick tasks as you go. Progress stays only in this browser and is never sent anywhere.
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Before arrival
Prepare the essentials before departure
Build a cash runway
Estimate recurring and one-time costs for your first months.
Open settlement plannerArrange temporary accommodation
Choose a flexible landing stay while you learn neighbourhoods.
Explore accommodationPrepare documents to carry
Keep identity, immigration, education, employment and family records accessible.
Research newcomer banking
Compare fees, identification requirements and transfer options.
Explore bankingPlan phone or eSIM access
Arrange connectivity for arrival, navigation and account verification.
Confirm travel and flight plan
Review baggage, connections, arrival transport and a first-night plan.
Research housing
Compare rents, deposits, commute times and lease requirements.
Research childcare and schools
Understand local registration, waitlists, fees and documents.
Plan winter clothing
Budget for climate-appropriate layers, coats and boots if relevant.
First 7 days
Set up identity, money and daily life
Apply for a SIN
Use the official process and protect the number once issued.
Open a bank account
Compare fees and features before choosing an account.
Activate a mobile plan
Choose coverage and data that fit your location and budget.
Apply for provincial health coverage
Check provincial eligibility, waiting periods and required documents.
Set up a reliable address
Update key services as your temporary or permanent address changes.
Set up transit or transport
Get local passes and map essential routes.
Buy initial household essentials
Prioritize food, basic cookware, bedding and safety items.
First 30 days
Establish your household
Secure permanent housing
Review the lease, deposit rules, utilities and move-in condition.
Arrange tenant insurance
Understand contents, liability, deductibles and exclusions.
Compare essentialsSet up home internet
Compare total monthly cost, installation and contract terms.
Review driver licensing or exchange
Check province-specific timelines, tests and documents.
Register childcare or school
Complete local registration and follow up on waitlists.
Review family benefit applications
Note possible CCB and provincial benefit steps and timing.
Estimate benefitsStart building Canadian credit
Use credit carefully and pay on time; avoid unnecessary applications.
Set up job-search routines
Prepare a Canadian-style résumé, references and a weekly application plan.
First 3–6 months
Review and strengthen the plan
Prepare for tax filing
Organize residency dates, income records, receipts and family information.
Review benefit estimates
Revisit assumptions when income or family circumstances change.
Update estimateSet an emergency fund target
Choose a realistic reserve based on essential monthly costs.
Reassess the vehicle decision
Compare transit with the full cost of owning or leasing.
Learn about RRSPs and TFSAs
Use educational sources and confirm contribution room before contributing.
Browse guidesReview longer-term housing readiness
Track stable income, credit, savings and realistic housing costs.
Banking
Compare newcomer account features, fees and eligibility.
Editorial mention — no payment or commission is attached.
Mobile plans
Review prepaid and monthly phone options.
Editorial mention — no payment or commission is attached.
Home internet
Compare speed, contract and installation basics.
Partner option for a future comparison — nothing is shared with anyone unless you give explicit consent first.
Tenant insurance
Understand common renter coverage options.
Partner option for a future comparison — nothing is shared with anyone unless you give explicit consent first.
Moving services
Plan local delivery, storage and moving help.
Editorial mention — no payment or commission is attached.