Eight Important Steps For New Immigrants When They Arrive In Canada

New immigrants to Canada must take several essential steps to ensure a smooth transition and integration.

It is highly recommended to call or visit an immigrant-serving organization in your city or town to learn about their services to help you settle.

These steps vary if you are coming to Canada as permanent resident or a temporary resident.

It is important to be aware of the list of things that needs to be completed on arrival.

Eight of the most important steps for newcomers are listed below.

1. Obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

Apply for a Social Insurance Number from Service Canada as soon as you arrive. This unique nine-digit identification number is essential for working, paying taxes, and applying for government benefits and services.

You must present one of the following documents when you apply for a SIN: Permanent residents must present a card issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada if your application was processed in Canada. Or, if processed outside Canada, a Confirmation of Permanent Residence and visa counterfoil affixed to your foreign passport or travel document.

2. Understand the Canadian Banking System

Familiarize yourself with the Canadian banking system, including the types of accounts available, banking fees, online and mobile banking options, and security measures. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and efficiently manage your finances.

Armed with that knowledge, you can then open a bank account.

Visit a bank or credit union to open a Canadian bank account. Choose an institution that offers services suitable for newcomers, such as multilingual support and newcomer account packages with attractive deals.

With a bank account, you will manage your finances effectively, receive your salary via direct deposits and pay bills, and access other financial services.

3. Build Credit History

Start building your credit history as soon as possible. Apply for a secured credit card or a credit card with a low limit and make regular payments to establish a favourable credit profile. A good credit history will be beneficial when applying for loans or renting an apartment.

There are several ways to build a good credit history. The main ones are, applying for a Social Insurance Number. Opening a bank account is another way to have a strong credit history because it shows financial stability.

Apply for a secured credit card and pay your bills on time to maintain a healthy credit record. A secured credit card requires a security deposit as collateral; the credit limit typically equals the deposit. Monitor your credit report through the major bureaus, Equifax and TransUnion. Consistent and responsible behaviour pays off in the end.

4. Set Up Online Banking

Enroll in online banking to access and manage your accounts from anywhere. This lets you view balances, make transfers, pay bills, and monitor transactions. Online banking is secure, timesaving, and widely used in Canada. You can check your bank accounts and credit card balance at any time. Traditional banks don’t stay open 24/7, giving you a limited window to get funds, make payments, and get your questions answered.

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5. Create a Budget

Develop a budget to understand your income, expenses, and savings goals. Consider your monthly expenses, such as rent, utilities, transportation, and groceries, and set aside a portion for savings. It helps you determine how much money you get, spend and save. Budgeting can help you balance your income with your savings and expenses. This will help you maintain financial discipline and adjust your spending habits.

6. Enroll in Healthcare

Apply for a provincial health card to access essential healthcare services. Each province in Canada has its system, so research the requirements and processes specific to the province you live in. Governments pay for many aspects of health care using money collected from taxes. You only pay for some services when visiting a doctor, clinic or hospital.

You will need a health insurance card to get health care in Canada. You must present this card each time you need medical services. Apply for a health insurance card from your provincial or territorial government as soon as possible after you arrive in Canada.

7. Education

If you have school-aged children, research the local school system and register them in an appropriate school. Ensure you have the documents and information for the registration process. Parents have the primary responsibility for educating their children.

Canada has different post-secondary institutions and many forms of post-secondary education. Once you have found one or more post-secondary programs that interest you, apply for admission. Ask the university or college for information about the admission requirements and procedures.

Admission to many post-secondary institutions in Canada is competitive. Suppose you plan to pursue post-secondary studies, research programs and application procedures well in advance. Most institutions have firm deadlines and nonrefundable application fees.

8. Housing

After arriving in Canada, one of your primary needs is a temporary place to stay until you can rent or buy a long-term home. If you do not have family or friends in Canada that you can stay with, you can stay at a hotel or hostel.

Most hotels offer private rooms and bathrooms, telephone and internet service and a television. Some have rooms with a small kitchen, allowing you to save money when you cook.

Hostels are a more basic version of a hotel. At most hostels, you can get a private room or a bed in a large room that you share with others. Washrooms are usually shared, and there is often a kitchen where you can cook.

Settling in a new country is daunting, but things get easier once you take the initial essential steps. It’s important to stay informed, seek help when needed, and be proactive in your integration journey.

This article was originally published by Immigration.ca. Read the original article here.