First Steps After Arriving in Canada: A Newcomer’s Guide

You’re about to land in Canada with your study or work permit—excited, but maybe wondering: What are the first steps after arriving in Canada to get settled?

In this guide, I’ll walk you through ten essential steps you should take during your first week (or so) in Canada to set yourself up for success.

Based on my personal experience in Ontario, these tips can help you navigate your arrival and find provincial equivalents as needed.

Let’s dive in!

1. Get Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)

Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a must-have for working and accessing government programs in Canada. This 9-digit number identifies you as a worker and opens doors to important benefits.

You can apply in three ways: online, by mail, or in person. While online applications take around 20 business days, I recommend visiting a Service Canada office in person. It’s quick—you’ll receive your SIN immediately.

Pro Tip: Visit the official government website for documentation requirements. Getting your SIN is truly the first step after arriving in Canada that you can’t skip!

2. Get an Ontario Photo Card (or Equivalent)

If you won’t apply for a driver’s license, consider an Ontario Photo Card. This government-issued ID serves as proof of identity and simplifies daily life. You won’t have to carry your passport everywhere—this card becomes your local ID.

To get one, visit Service Ontario with your original identification documents. They’ll take your photo, and the card will arrive at your home within weeks for just $35.

Check your province’s equivalent if you’re outside Ontario—it’s a practical first step after arriving in Canada.

Here is the link to find out all the details on how to apply.

3. Apply for a Driver’s License

Planning to drive in Canada? Start the process for your Ontario Driver’s License early. If you have driving experience from your home country, you might qualify for a G Full License without starting at the beginner G1 level.

I recommend booking appointments as soon as possible. The steps can take time, and securing a license is essential if you plan to drive.

Curious about the full process? I’ve detailed everything in this step-by-step guide to getting an Ontario driver’s license.

4. Set Up a Cellphone Plan

Staying connected is crucial, so make sure your phone is unlocked and ready for a Canadian SIM card. I got mine at Toronto Pearson Airport upon arrival—it was quick and convenient.

Research providers with good coverage in your province. For instance, I started with Chatr and later upgraded to Rogers.

The second option is to arrive and activate an eSIM while deciding on the best Canadian plan for your needs. I recommend checking out Airalo for this—it’s a service I’ve used while traveling, and it works seamlessly.

Choose what fits your needs best—it’s one of the easiest first steps after arriving in Canada.

5. Get a Public Transit Card (Presto or Equivalent)

Using public transportation? Grab a Presto card (Ontario) or its equivalent in your city. It’s more affordable than paying cash fares and simplifies commuting.

In Toronto, you can buy a Presto card at subway stations for $6. Reload it as needed or purchase monthly passes. Other provinces have similar systems: Opus in Montreal or Compass in Vancouver. Make this a priority as you navigate your new city!

6. Download Essential Apps

When you arrive, you might find yourself without any food or basic necessities in the place you rented. One of the first things you’ll need to do is find a supermarket.

If you are busy organizing everything at home and you prefer convenience, I recommend activating Instacart if it’s available in your area. This app was a lifesaver for me—I used it when I first arrived, and groceries were delivered to my door within a couple of hours.

Other apps I suggest exploring include Flashfood (If you’d like to try Flashfood, feel free to use my referral code: JULI36R8D) and TooGoodToGo. Flashfood lets you buy food at reduced prices because it’s near the expiration date, while Toogoodtogo offers discounted meals from restaurants at the end of the day.

Additionally, I recommend creating an account with Amazon Canada. They deliver quickly—sometimes within a few hours or by the next day. This is especially helpful for other essentials you might need while figuring out if you live near a mall or other shopping options.

For example, when I arrived with my pet, I ordered everything I needed for my cat through Amazon. If you’re also travelling with a pet, I recommend checking out my post on 15 Things Your Cat Needs When Settling in Canada for some helpful tips and ideas.

7. Find a Place to Rent

Looking for your first rental in Canada? Sites like Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji are great starting points. Alternatively, work with a real estate agent—tenants don’t pay fees as agents are compensated by landlords.

Agents can save you time by scheduling viewings and negotiating on your behalf. It’s one of the first steps after arriving in Canada that sets the tone for a smoother start.

If you want to learn more about this topic, I invite you to read How to Rent Your First Home as a Newcomer in Canada

8. Look for a Job

If you’re planning to look for a job, start by creating profiles on job search platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and Jobbank. These sites are widely used in Canada, and you can activate job alerts to stay updated on openings that match your preferences.

It’s important to prepare a Canadian-style resume and cover letter tailored to each job you apply for. Make sure your resume is brief, highlights relevant skills and experience, and includes keywords from the job posting. In Canada, resumes do not include photos or unnecessary personal details, so keep it professional and concise.

For more detailed guidance, you can refer to my post on How to Get a Job in Canada as a Newcomer and Job Search Strategies for Newcomers in Canada: 11 Effective Tips.

Additionally, you might find the My Perfect Resume tool helpful for building your resume. It offers templates and suggestions to create a polished, professional document that aligns with Canadian standards.

9. Get Winter Clothes, If Required

Whether you need winter clothes depends on the time of year you arrive in Canada. For instance, I arrived at the end of February 2021, as winter was winding down, and managed to buy my winter boots at a reasonable price during end-of-season sales.

I highly recommend keeping an eye out for deals, especially as winter transitions to spring. Some of my favourite places to shop for winter essentials include Winners (it’s a treasure trove, but you’ll need to visit in person), Noize (great for vegan winter jackets), and SoftMoc (a wide selection of winter boots from various brands).

If you’re unsure what you’ll need, you can explore more details on Winter Clothing in Canada – How to Dress During Winter in Canada. Proper clothing is essential to stay comfortable in the colder months, so don’t overlook this step!

10. Open a Bank Account

Opening a bank account is one of the first steps you’ll need to take in Canada. It’s essential for receiving your salary and starting to build your Canadian credit score, which is crucial for future financial needs like renting, buying a car, or applying for a loan.

Some of the major banks in Canada include Scotiabank, RBC, CIBC, TD Bank, and others. These banks offer a range of services, and many have specific newcomer programs to help you get started.

If you prefer a more modern, cost-effective option, some banks operate entirely online. For example, I use Neo Financial because there are no monthly fees, and they offer a high-interest savings account along with cashback on their credit card.

Since you won’t have a Canadian credit score initially, most banks will offer you a secured credit card. With this type of card, you provide a deposit equal to your credit limit. This is a common and effective way to start building your credit history in Canada.

Conclusion

Taking these first steps after arriving in Canada is key to setting yourself up for success in your new home. From getting your Social Insurance Number to finding a job, opening a bank account, and even tackling the winter weather, each step helps you settle in and feel more prepared for your journey ahead.

I hope this list clarifies what you need to do during those crucial first days and weeks. Remember, every small action you take brings you closer to building a stable and fulfilling life in Canada.