Relocating to a new country is one of life’s most transformative experiences — exciting, full of promise, and at times, overwhelming. For individuals and families moving to Ontario, Canada, preparation can make the difference between a stressful transition and a smooth start.
Whether you’re arriving as a student, skilled worker, or permanent resident, having a structured pre-arrival plan ensures you land ready to thrive. At Maplecrest Advisory Inc., we’ve developed a six-week readiness checklist designed to guide newcomers through every essential step — from documentation to housing and cultural adaptation.
6 Weeks Before Departure: Confirm Documents and Travel Plans
Your preparation should begin with the most important foundation — documentation.
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Double-check that your passport, visa, or eTA is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
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Secure your Letter of Introduction (if you’re a student or temporary worker).
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Collect physical and digital copies of all important papers: admission letters, employment contracts, vaccination records, academic transcripts, and birth certificates.
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Arrange your flight and arrival itinerary — ensure your landing airport connects conveniently to your destination city in Ontario.
💡 Tip: Keep one set of documents in your carry-on and another scanned safely in cloud storage.
5 Weeks Before Departure: Arrange Finances and Banking
Understanding how money works in Canada will save you stress later.
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Notify your current bank of your international move to prevent card blocks.
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Research Canadian banks that offer newcomer accounts or student packages — many allow you to open accounts remotely.
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Prepare initial funds for your first month (rent, groceries, transport).
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Obtain an international debit/credit card to cover expenses before you receive your Canadian debit card.
💡 Tip: You’ll need proof of funds when entering Canada — make sure it’s accessible and well documented.
4 Weeks Before Departure: Secure Accommodation
Finding housing early gives you peace of mind.
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If you’re a student, contact your institution’s housing office or Maplecrest’s settlement advisors for guidance.
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Short-term rentals (e.g., furnished apartments or homestays) are ideal for your first month.
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Research neighborhoods — proximity to transit, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities matter.
💡 Tip: Ontario cities like Ottawa, Toronto, and Waterloo have competitive rental markets — book early to avoid high costs and limited availability.
3 Weeks Before Departure: Plan for Healthcare and Insurance
Canada’s healthcare system is excellent, but each province has unique rules.
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Apply for Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) once eligible — coverage usually starts three months after arrival.
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Purchase private medical insurance for your first 90 days in Ontario.
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Keep copies of your vaccination records; some institutions or employers require them.
💡 Tip: Pack a small medical kit with essential medications and a doctor’s note for any prescriptions.
2 Weeks Before Departure: Prepare for Weather and Everyday Life
Ontario’s climate varies dramatically by season — preparation is key.
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If you’re arriving in winter, invest in a warm coat, gloves, and waterproof boots.
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Download essential local apps for navigation (Google Maps, Transit App), weather, and mobile banking.
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Research cultural norms — punctuality, courtesy, and workplace professionalism are highly valued in Canada.
💡 Tip: Check if your phone is unlocked and compatible with Canadian SIM cards for easier setup on arrival.
1 Week Before Departure: Build Your Support Network
Having a community waiting for you can make your transition easier.
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Connect with student associations, settlement groups, or Maplecrest’s pre-arrival orientation cohorts.
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Save contact numbers for emergency services, your school or employer, and local newcomer resource centers.
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Inform your relatives or friends in Canada of your travel itinerary.
💡 Tip: Join an online newcomer forum specific to your destination city — it’s a great way to find peers and share real-time advice.
Upon Arrival: Your First 48 Hours in Ontario
Welcome home!
Within your first two days, prioritize these tasks:
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Apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN) at a Service Canada office.
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Open your bank account if not already done.
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Buy a Presto card (for public transport) and a local SIM card.
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Register for OHIP or temporary insurance coverage.
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If you’re a student, visit your campus orientation and international office.
💡 Tip: Keep all your receipts and documents organized — they’ll be useful for future applications (housing, employment, or permanent residency).
Why Preparation Matters
Transitioning to Ontario means adapting to new systems — banking, healthcare, education, and community life. When preparation begins weeks in advance, you reduce stress, avoid delays, and arrive ready to participate fully in your new environment.
Maplecrest Advisory Inc. helps newcomers bridge this gap through structured pre-arrival training, language readiness, and settlement orientation programs that align with Canada’s newcomer integration priorities.
Our goal is simple: to ensure every individual and family arrives informed, confident, and ready to thrive.