Arriving in Canada is exciting and overwhelming at the same time. There are dozens of things you need to do, and the order matters. Do things in the wrong sequence and you could delay your health coverage, lose out on benefits, or have trouble opening a bank account. This guide walks you through what to do, week by week, in your first 30 days in Canada.
Week 1: The Essentials (Days 1 to 7)
Get Your SIN Number
Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is the single most important document you will get in Canada. You need it before you can work, open certain bank accounts, or access government benefits. Visit any Service Canada location with your passport and immigration documents. The SIN is free and you should receive it immediately in person or within 20 days by mail.
Open a Canadian Bank Account
Open a Canadian bank account within your first week. TD, RBC, Scotiabank, BMO, and CIBC all offer newcomer banking programs with no monthly fees for the first year. Bring your passport, proof of address, and SIN number. A Canadian bank account lets you receive payments, pay rent, and start building credit history immediately.
Check Your Provincial Health Coverage
Health-plan eligibility depends on your province and immigration status. Ontario no longer has an OHIP waiting period for people who are eligible, but many temporary residents and international students are not OHIP-eligible and need school or private coverage. Confirm your status with the provincial health authority before relying on public coverage.
Pro tip: While waiting for your health card, emergency rooms cannot turn you away. However, you will be billed. Get private insurance on day one if you are in Ontario or Quebec to avoid surprise medical bills.
Week 2: Housing and Documents (Days 8 to 14)
Establish Proof of Address
You need a Canadian address for almost everything. If staying with family or friends, ask for a letter confirming your stay. If renting, get your lease agreement. Your address is needed for your health card application, bank statements, and government correspondence.
Apply for the Canada Child Benefit
If you have children under 18, apply for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) immediately through CRA My Account or by mail. The CCB can be worth $600 to $800 per month per child. Many newcomers to Canada miss out on thousands of dollars by delaying this application. You can receive retroactive payments from your date of eligibility.
Get a Provincial Photo ID
If you do not have a Canadian driving licence, apply for a provincial photo ID card. This serves as government-issued photo ID for all non-driving purposes and is accepted everywhere in Canada. Bring your passport and proof of address.
Week 3: Employment and Tax Setup (Days 15 to 21)
Register for CRA My Account
Create a Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) My Account online. This is your tax portal for filing returns, viewing benefit payments, and managing your Canadian tax profile. You need your SIN number and Canadian address to register. This step unlocks access to hundreds of dollars in GST/HST credits.
Canadianize Your Resume
Canadian resumes are different from most countries. No photo, no date of birth, no marital status. The format is achievement-focused with specific metrics. Use GuideCAN Resume Canadianizer to automatically reformat your international resume for the Canadian job market and increase your interview callbacks.
Start Building Canadian Credit
Apply for a secured credit card from your bank. A secured card requires a deposit, usually $500 to $1,000, that becomes your credit limit. Use it for small purchases and pay it off in full every month. After 6 to 12 months you will have enough credit history to qualify for a regular unsecured credit card.
Week 4: Community and Long-Term Setup (Days 22 to 30)
Find Free Settlement Services
Look for a settlement agency serving your city or postal code. Depending on your eligibility and the program, you may be able to get free employment advice, language support and referrals to community services. Ask which programs accept your immigration status and whether you need an appointment.
Connect with Your Cultural Community
Every major Canadian city has cultural associations, religious organizations, and community groups from your home country. These communities are invaluable for job leads, housing tips, childcare recommendations, and emotional support during the settlement adjustment period.
Plan Your First Canadian Tax Return
Even if you only lived in Canada for part of the year, file a tax return. Filing unlocks access to GST/HST credits, provincial benefits, and refunds. Keep all receipts and records from day one. Canadian tax season runs from February to April for the previous year.
Written and reviewed by the GuideCAN Editorial Team
Editorially reviewed for clarity, practical usefulness and alignment with the official starting points listed below.
Official sources
Official rules, fees, deadlines and program availability can change. Confirm the current details before acting.