40 Things to Do Before Moving to Canada | Ultimate Checklist

Are you wondering, “What should I do before moving to Canada?” You’re not alone!

When I was preparing for my move, I realized there were so many things I wish I’d known beforehand. That’s why I’ve compiled this ultimate checklist of 40 things to do before moving to Canada, based on my personal experience of planning every detail of my immigration journey.

This list will cover everything you need to consider, from paperwork to packing and beyond. You can also download my FREE 3-page checklist to make your preparation process smoother.

What Things Should I Do Before Moving to Canada?

No matter which country you’re coming from, preparing for a new life in Canada requires careful planning. Before you leave your home country, you’ll need to complete several important tasks to ensure you’re ready for the transition. These tasks include organizing your finances, arranging accommodations, addressing healthcare needs, decluttering, preparing vital documents, and much more.

This guide is broken down into categories to make it easy for you to follow: Services & Subscriptions, Health & Insurance, Savings & Banking, Home & Organization, Documents & Paperwork, Education, Pets, Work, and Essentials for Your Trip.

The Ultimate Checklist

1. Create a checklist with your to-do list

This is the most important for me that is why I have added it as number one.

I suggest you create a checklist (I did this for ourselves) after brainstorming the things you need to do before travelling. If you prefer, you can get my FREE 3-page checklist.

This will be useful for tracking your progress.

If you want to add more items, think about your daily life, the bills you pay, and the things you do regularly to start checking what you need to do to get everything in order in your home country.

Remember that once you leave your country, it will be difficult to go back to fix something you did not resolve before travelling.

Services & Subscriptions

2. Cancel Phone and Internet Plans

If you have a phone (and you most likely do) with a monthly plan and/or an internet plan for your home connection, make sure to call the company to check how to cancel it.

Do this ahead of time, as some companies require advance notice or a physical signature to finalize the cancellation. Don’t be like me—double-check to make sure it’s 100% cancelled to avoid unnecessary charges later.

3. Check if You Have to Cancel Any Subscriptions

Think about your daily activities to identify subscriptions you may no longer need after your move. These could include streaming services like Netflix or Amazon, gym memberships, or even local services.

For example, I had a subscription with a company that collected organic waste weekly. We had to notify them that we were leaving and would no longer need their service. Going through this process also helped us clean up subscriptions we were no longer using, saving us money.

Take this opportunity to review everything—you’ll likely uncover some hidden expenses you didn’t realize you were paying for.

4. Notify Social Security or Pension Plans

This step depends on your country and how its systems work.

In my case, I didn’t need to do anything since leaving my job automatically stopped my contributions. However, some countries may require advance notice or specific paperwork. Research how it works for you and follow the steps to avoid complications later.

Remember, once you stop working in your home country, your contributions to social security or pensions will also stop. Make sure everything is in order before you leave.

5. Review Your Donations

If you regularly donate to causes or organizations, review your commitments.

In my case, I had automatic payments set up from my Chilean bank account. If I wanted to continue supporting these causes, I needed to ensure there was always money in that account.

Alternatively, if your financial situation will change and you can no longer support these causes, make sure to cancel your donations.

6. Return Any Devices

Return all devices provided by service companies, such as internet modems, cable boxes, landline phones, security cameras, or other equipment.

Returning these items not only prevents extra charges but also helps declutter your space as you prepare for the move.

Health & insurance

7. Check if You Have to Formally Resign from Your Country’s Healthcare System

This depends on how the healthcare system works in your country.

For instance, in Chile, my partner had to physically visit the private healthcare provider to sign documents and terminate the contract. However, I didn’t need to resign from the public system because I was transferring within the same company.

Research your country’s requirements and ensure you complete any necessary steps before leaving.

8. Cancel Insurance That Doesn’t Cover You Abroad

Review all your insurance policies, including health, life, auto, and phone insurance, to see if they provide coverage while you’re abroad.

In my case, I emailed my life insurance provider to confirm whether I was covered internationally. This gave me peace of mind and allowed me to make an informed decision about whether to keep the policy or cancel it.

9. Get Medical Checkups

Before leaving, schedule a general medical checkup and complete any routine tests. This is especially important since navigating a new healthcare system in Canada can be challenging, particularly if you don’t yet have public health coverage like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

When I arrived in Canada, it took me some time to figure out how to access medical care. To avoid unnecessary stress, get your health in order before you leave.

If you want to learn how to get a health card in Ontario as a worker, you can check out Health Card for Work Permit Holder in Ontario, Canada.

Savings & banking

10. Save More Money Than You Think

The cost of living in Canada is often higher than in many other countries. Research the average expenses for rent, groceries, transportation, and other essentials in the city or province where you plan to live.

When we moved, we had to cover upfront costs like deposits for housing and furniture purchases, so having extra savings was crucial. I suggest saving more than you think you’ll need to avoid financial stress.

If you want an idea of the cost of living for us, you can check the post Cost of Living in Canada: Basic expenses for Newcomers.

11. Eliminate or Reduce Your Local Debts

If you can, pay off or reduce your debts before moving. This will give you peace of mind and free you from worrying about making payments from abroad.

I used some of my savings to pay off my student loan before leaving. It wasn’t easy, but it saved me money in the long run because I avoided additional interest. Review your debts and prioritize paying off as much as possible.

12. Review Automatic Payments

Check if you have recurring payments set up, such as utilities, streaming services, or memberships, that automatically deduct from your account. Cancel or adjust them as needed.

I also recommend contacting your bank to ensure no additional steps (like signing paperwork) are required to stop these payments.

13. Create an International Bank Account

If you’re planning to transfer money to Canada, consider opening an international bank account. I did this with Scotiabank, which allowed me to transfer funds from Chile. Although there were fees involved, it was convenient for accessing money once I arrived in Canada.

Later, I switched to using services like Currencybird for better exchange rates and lower fees. Other options include Western Union and Remitly. Research what works best for you based on your needs.

For more details on financial preparations, make sure to check Preparing Your Finances for a Move to Canada: What You Need to Know.

Home & organization

14. End Your Rental Contract

Notify your landlord well in advance to avoid issues and maintain a good relationship. This is particularly important if you plan to return in the future and may want to rent the same property again.

15. Hire a Real Estate Agency (If Applicable)

If you own property and plan to rent it out while you’re in Canada, consider hiring a real estate agency. They can help screen tenants, manage payments, and handle other administrative tasks.

I tried this route, but since time was running out, I ended up renting my home to a relative. If you’re on a tight schedule, start this process as early as possible.

16. Sell Your Biggest Possessions

If you own large items like cars or motorcycles that will depreciate while you’re abroad, consider selling them before you leave.

We sold my partner’s car and motorcycles to free up space and add to our savings. It was a tough decision, but it ultimately helped fund our move.

17. Declutter Your Closet

Be honest with yourself and only bring the clothes you truly need. Donate, give away, or sell what you don’t need—this will not only lighten your load but also give you peace of mind and possibly increase your savings.

Personally, I’ve never been attached to owning too many clothes, and I didn’t have a big closet. However, I know that’s not the case for everyone. Take the time to go through your wardrobe and pack only the essentials. Don’t worry about bringing too much—Canada has plenty of affordable, good-quality clothing options.

18. Sell or Donate Utensils You Won’t Use

Similar to decluttering your closet, I recommend you clean out your entire house in advance. This can save you time, money, and stress.

When we did this, it was a lot of work: selecting items, posting them online, waiting for buyers, confirming their arrival, and being home to hand over the items. Patience is key, so try to start this process months before your trip.

We sold bikes, a PlayStation, a baby seat I used for my niece, and more. Items that couldn’t be sold were donated, such as tools that Corita (our kitty) used, which we gave to a friend who had adopted a kitten.

19. Sell or Donate Your Plants

If you’re a plant lover, this is an emotional step, but it’s necessary. Make sure you find a new home for your beloved plants.

For example, we had to give away our SCOBYs for kombucha-making. It’s one of those small but important details to take care of before you leave.

Documents & Paperwork

20. Check That Your Passport Is Up-to-Date

This should be a top priority since a passport is essential for international travel. It’s easy to overlook if you don’t use it often.

Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Canada. If it’s not, renew it before you leave your home country. The same goes for your national identity card, if applicable.

21. Leave a Broad Power of Attorney With Someone You Trust

This is a step I regret not taking. If your country has something similar, consult a notary or lawyer to prepare a broad power of attorney.

This document allows someone you trust to act on your behalf, such as signing papers or handling other legal matters while you’re abroad. It’s a huge time-saver if anything unexpected comes up while you’re away.

22. Gather Proof of Your Common-Law Relationship (If Applicable)

In Canada, common-law status applies to couples who are not married but have lived together for at least one year. If this applies to you, gather evidence of your relationship, such as shared utility bills, joint bank accounts, or rental agreements.

We needed this for processing a Work Permit as a Common-Law partner of a skilled worker. If you’re married, remember to bring your marriage certificate as it may also be required.

23. Scan Important Documents

Scanning your important documents can save you a lot of headaches. You might not want to carry everything physically, but having digital copies can be useful for paperwork or emergencies.

For a detailed list of documents to bring, check out Essential Documents to Gather Before Moving to Canada.

Education

24. Validate Your Credentials or Degree

If you’re planning to apply for permanent residence in Canada, you may need to evaluate your credentials. This process takes time, so it’s better to do it in advance rather than asking family or friends to help once you’re abroad.

If you’re unfamiliar with the process, check out How to Get an Educational Credential Assessment for Immigration Purposes.

25. Consider an English Course (If Applicable)

Language skills are essential for integrating into Canadian society. If you’re part of a Working Holiday program or planning a long-term stay, brushing up on your English skills can be incredibly helpful.

When my partner Aldo didn’t get an invitation to apply for the Working Holiday program, we opted for an English course as plan B. We compared several schools and ultimately chose one I had attended years ago.

If you’re preparing on your own, platforms like Italki offer affordable classes with tutors from around the world. I’ve taken over 100 classes there, and it helped me feel more confident speaking English.

For more tips, check out 6 Things to Improve your English if you are Thinking of Moving Abroad

Pets

26. Arrange Care for Your Pets (If Not Traveling With Them)

If you have a pet—cat, dog, fish, or any other type—and you’re planning to travel without them, one of the important things to do before moving to Canada is to ensure you find a safe and caring place for them to stay ahead of time.

Choose a place where your pet will be taken care of responsibly, with access to food, water, and all their needs met. Even more important than the place is the person who will care for them—someone with patience, experience, and a genuine love for animals, just like you have.

27. Prepare Your Pets for the Trip

If your furry friend is coming with you, there’s a lot to prepare. I’ve written detailed posts on this topic: How to Train Your Pet to Travel to Canada and 12 Tips for Travelling to Canada With Your Cat.

Work

28. Explore Relocation Options With Your Employer

If you work for an international company, check if there are programs or opportunities to transfer to a Canadian office. This worked for me and made my transition much smoother.

29. Notify Your Employer (If Applicable)

If you’re leaving your current job, ensure you give proper notice. Research if there are specific deadlines or requirements to avoid complications.

30. Update Your Resume and Cover Letter

Prepare a Canadian-style resume and cover letter before you arrive. The Canadian format is concise, tailored to the job, and doesn’t include personal details like photos or religion.

For more tips, check out How to Get a Job as a Newcomer in Canada and 11 Strategies to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Job in Canada.

Essentials for Your Trip

31. Pack Essential Medications

If you or someone travelling with you has an illness that requires ongoing medication, packing enough of it is one of the important things to do before moving to Canada.

I suggest you prepare a sufficient supply of medications to ensure you’re covered while figuring out how the healthcare system works in your province. Before leaving, visit your doctor and ask for a prescription to carry with you on the flight. This can be helpful if you need to explain why you’re carrying medication in large quantities.

From my experience, I brought inhalers for asthma and levothyroxine for hypothyroidism. I encountered no issues during the trip, but having the prescription gave me peace of mind.

32. Buy a Suitcase (If Applicable)

You’ll need a sturdy suitcase to carry your belongings to Canada. Don’t overpack or bring items you won’t use. It’s better to travel light and bring only essentials.

Check if you already have a suitcase or if you need to buy an extra one. Plan ahead to take advantage of discounts, especially during sales like Black Friday. Trust me, saving a little on something as basic as a suitcase will feel rewarding during the costly moving process.

33. Choose the Date of Your Trip

One of the critical things to do before moving to Canada is deciding on your travel date. Sometimes external factors, like visa expiration or job start dates, will dictate this. For instance, my Port of Entry (POE) letter had an expiration date, so I had to plan my move accordingly.

Whatever your situation, be brave, set a date, and start working toward it!

34. Choose your Destination City 

Deciding where to settle in Canada is a big decision. Factors like job opportunities, cost of living, lifestyle, and climate may play a role in your choice. If you already have a job offer, your decision might be easy. Otherwise, take your time to research the best place to live in Canada based on your needs.

This decision can be overwhelming, but you’ll find plenty of resources online to help. Check out posts like 13 Tips to Choose the Best Place to Live in Canada for tips.

35. Buy the Tickets

Once you’ve chosen your travel date and destination, start searching for flights. Compare airlines to find the best deal for your trip. Use platforms like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak to monitor prices and book when rates are low.

If you’re travelling with a pet, keep their ticket in mind as well. A separate post on travelling with pets may help you with more details on this.

36. Purchase Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for some visa programs, like the Working Holiday program, and highly recommended for everyone else. It’s a safety net for unexpected events like medical emergencies, lost luggage, or trip cancellations.

We compared several options and chose the one that suited us best. In our case, Aldo had to use travel insurance when he injured his wrist playing soccer. The emergency room visit cost 700 CAD, and the insurance covered it, saving us a lot of money.

Make sure you include this in your budget, and research providers such as SafetyWing or others that offer comprehensive coverage.

37. Take Your Essential Documents With You

To avoid unnecessary stress at the border, prepare a folder with all the documents you need. This should include everything you submitted to IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) for your application, whether you’re a worker, student, or visitor.

Having everything printed and organized will save you from scrambling for information on your phone or laptop when you’ve just landed in Canada.

38. Unlock Your Debit and Credit Cards for International Purchases

Contact your bank to unlock your debit and credit cards for international use. This ensures you can make purchases abroad without any issues. Some banks require advance notice, so don’t leave this to the last minute.

39. Exchange Cash

It’s a good idea to exchange some of your home currency for Canadian dollars before you leave. Although most places in Canada accept debit or credit cards, having some cash on hand is useful for emergencies or situations where cards might not work.

40. Rent a Temporary Place 

Before moving to Canada permanently, consider renting a temporary place like an Airbnb or something from Booking.com. This will give you time to explore the area and find a permanent residence without feeling rushed.

Be cautious of scams, especially if someone asks for money upfront before you’ve seen the property. When I moved, I rented an Airbnb for 30 days in Toronto. It worked perfectly, as it allowed me to complete my quarantine and then find a long-term apartment.

You can know more details by reading How to Rent Your First Home as a Newcomer in Canada.

Conclusion

Moving to Canada requires careful planning, but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth and exciting experience. Follow this guide to cover the most important things to do before moving to Canada, and don’t forget to use my 3-page FREE checklist to stay organized.

Wishing you the best of luck in your move and happy travels! Canada is waiting for you.