Moving to another country is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming. If you’re planning a move to Canada in 2025, having a clear, detailed checklist is the key to making your relocation smooth, organized, and stress-free.
Whether you’re heading north for work, school, family, or a fresh start, this guide will walk you through everything you need to do — from paperwork and packing to settling in after you arrive.
Why People Are Moving to Canada in 2025
Canada continues to attract newcomers for good reason:
- 🏥 Universal healthcare
- 🧑🎓 Excellent education system
- 🌎 Diverse, multicultural communities
- 💼 Strong job market and quality of life
- 🌲 Clean air, green space, and stunning scenery
✅ Moving to Canada: Step-by-Step Checklist
Step 1: Before You Move
| Task | Notes & Tips |
|---|---|
| Research your visa options | Look into Express Entry, work permits, study permits, or family sponsorship |
| Apply for immigration | Use the official portal at canada.ca |
| Gather key documents | Passport, birth certificate, diplomas, marriage license, etc. |
| Get credential assessments | For skilled worker programs (WES, ICAS, etc.) |
| Secure a job or school placement | Increases your success and smooths the landing |
| Apply for a police certificate | Usually required for immigration applications |
| Review your vaccination records | Especially if enrolling in school or public healthcare |
| Create a moving budget | Include flights, visa fees, insurance, and housing |
| Book movers or shipping services | Ship essentials; sell or donate what you won’t take |
Step 2: Right Before Departure
- ✈️ Book your one-way flight
- 🧳 Pack important documents in your carry-on
- 🏦 Notify your bank and arrange any currency exchange
- 📦 Cancel or transfer subscriptions, leases, and utilities
- 🏥 Buy temporary health insurance (most provinces have a 90-day wait)
- 📱 Unlock your phone or buy a Canadian SIM card
- 📬 Set up mail forwarding and notify the IRS (for U.S. citizens)
Step 3: After You Arrive in Canada
| Task | What You Need to Do |
|---|---|
| Get your SIN | Social Insurance Number — apply at a Service Canada office |
| Open a bank account | RBC, TD, Scotiabank, and BMO are popular with newcomers |
| Find housing | Check Realtor.ca, Kijiji, Facebook, or work with a local agent |
| Register for healthcare | Public coverage has a wait time in some provinces (e.g., Ontario) |
| Apply for child benefits | Families may qualify for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) |
| Transfer your driver’s license | Depending on your home country, you may be able to exchange it |
| Enroll children in school | Public K–12 education is free and widely available |
Comparing Provinces: What to Expect
| Province | Health Wait Time | Major Cities | Avg. 1BR Rent (CAD) | Climate & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | 3 months | Toronto, Ottawa | $1,900–$2,400 | Hot summers, cold winters |
| British Columbia | 3 months | Vancouver, Victoria | $2,100–$2,700 | Mild winters, high rainfall |
| Alberta | None | Calgary, Edmonton | $1,400–$1,800 | Dry, snowy, more affordable housing |
| Quebec | None | Montreal, Quebec City | $1,300–$1,700 | Cold winters, French-speaking areas |
| Nova Scotia | None | Halifax | $1,300–$1,600 | Coastal climate, slower pace of life |
Note: These are averages as of early 2025 and vary by neighborhood.
Extra Tips for a Smoother Transition
- ✅ Back up documents to cloud storage
- ✅ Download transit and translation apps before arrival
- ✅ Join local Facebook or Reddit newcomer groups
- ✅ Keep some emergency savings in both CAD and your original currency
- ✅ Regularly check your application status via the IRCC portal
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much money should I bring?
You’ll need to show proof of funds for immigration — typically between $14,000–$25,000 CAD for a small family. You’ll also need funds for flights, housing, and day-to-day expenses when you arrive.
2. Do I need a visa to move to Canada?
Yes. Whether it’s for work, study, or permanent residency, you need to apply for the appropriate permit. U.S. citizens can visit for 6 months without a visa, but that doesn’t allow work or long-term stays.
3. What’s the first thing to do after arriving?
Apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN) — it’s required to work, pay taxes, and access most government services.
4. Is health insurance required on arrival?
Yes. Most provinces have a 90-day waiting period before you’re eligible for public health coverage. You should purchase private insurance to cover this gap.
5. Can I bring my pet to Canada?
Absolutely — just make sure you have:
- Proof of vaccinations (especially rabies)
- A health certificate dated within 10 days of travel
- An approved pet carrier if flying
Final Thoughts
Moving to Canada in 2025 is a big step, but with the right preparation, it can also be an incredibly rewarding one. This checklist is designed to help you stay organized, reduce stress, and ease into your new life with confidence.
Whether you’re coming solo or with your family, Canada offers a safe, welcoming environment with plenty of opportunity. So bookmark this page, start checking off your tasks — and get ready to call Canada home. 🇨🇦
