You’ve made it. After all the dreaming, the planning, and the constant refreshing of your online IRCC account, you’ve finally arrived. Now you’re faced with your first week in Canada.
You’ve done some unpacking and walked a few blocks. But what to do next?
Here are some of the essential things you’ll need to do during your first week in Canada.
1. Get your SIN
Your Social Insurance Number is a nine-digit number that you’ll need to work in Canada. It’s similar to the PPS number in Ireland, the National Insurance Number in the UK, the Social Security Number in the U.S., or the Tax File Number in Australia. If you’re in Canada on a temporary work permit, your SIN will begin with a ‘9’.
You can apply for a SIN at any Service Canada office, and if the queues are short, you should have it all sorted within an hour. Be sure to bring your work or study permit with you. It’s also possible to obtain a SIN online or by mail, but these options take a bit longer.
Getting a SIN is something you should aim to do within your first week in Canada. Our SIN Canada guide has more information on what you’ll need.
2. Set up a bank account
Banking in Canada is convenient, but many account types will have charges that may be higher than you’re used to paying at home.
Nonetheless, it’s important to get one set up so you can manage bills and debit card payments, and avoid potentially costly withdrawals from your home account.
Bear in mind that each of these banks usually have monthly fees associated with their chequing accounts (known as ‘current accounts’ in some other countries). The average Canadian will spend more than $200 in banking fees each year.
Read our guide to help you find the best bank in Canada for you.