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Essential Checklist for Professionals Moving to Canada from India

Relocating to Canada is a life-changing experience for many working professionals from India. Canada offers great job opportunities, a high standard of living, and a welcoming multicultural society. However, moving to a new country requires careful planning to ensure a smooth transition.

This essential checklist will guide you through the key steps—from gathering documentation to setting up housing, banking, and staying connected. With CanadianSIM’s pre-activated SIM cards, free delivery to India, unlimited data on ROGERS, and 1000 international minutes, you’ll be fully prepared to hit the ground running when you arrive.

1. Documents: Get Your Paperwork in Order

Gathering all the necessary documentation is crucial to avoid last-minute hassles.

Visa and Work Permit: Ensure your visa or work permit is valid.
Passport: Your passport should have at least six months of validity.
Educational and Professional Certificates: Bring original certificates and transcripts.
Travel Insurance: Get coverage for medical emergencies during your journey.
Employment Offer Letter: Keep printed and digital copies for immigration.

With CanadianSIM’s pre-activated SIM, you can call your employer and coordinate as soon as you land.

2. Housing: Secure Temporary and Long-Term Accommodation

Housing in Canada can be competitive, especially in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver. It’s wise to book temporary accommodation for a few weeks while searching for a permanent place.

Use apps like Kijiji and Realtor.ca to explore options.
Prepare references if required by landlords.
Average rent ranges from CAD 1,500–3,000/month, depending on location.

Stay connected with landlords using CanadianSIM’s unlimited talk and text—making apartment searches hassle-free.

3. Banking: Open a Bank Account Quickly

Setting up a local bank account is essential to receive your salary and manage expenses. You’ll need your passport, visa, job offer letter, and proof of address to open an account.

Popular banks include RBC, TD Bank, and Scotiabank.
A local phone number is often required to activate your account.

CanadianSIM’s pre-activated SIM ensures you have a local number from day one, simplifying the process.

4. Transport: Navigate Your New City Easily

Public transportation in Canada is reliable, but owning a car might also be an option.

Monthly transit passes cost CAD 150–200.
Owning a car can cost over CAD 1,200/month, including insurance and maintenance.
Use ride-sharing apps like Uber for convenience.

CanadianSIM’s high-speed data lets you navigate with Google Maps and book rides without interruptions.

5. Healthcare: Register for Provincial Health Insurance

Registering for provincial health insurance is essential to access healthcare services. Some provinces may have a waiting period, so private insurance might be needed.

Required documents: Passport, visa, proof of address.
Manage your insurance through online portals using your SIM’s reliable connection.

6. Phone and Connectivity: Get a Local SIM Card

Having a local SIM card is crucial for communication, job hunting, and managing daily tasks. CanadianSIM offers:

Free delivery in India.
Pre-activated SIMs ready to use upon arrival.
100GB data for $40 with no activation fees or contracts.
Unlimited talk and text across Canada.

7. Job and Professional Networking: Hit the Ground Running

Building a professional network is key to success in Canada.

Update your LinkedIn profile and connect with industry professionals.
Use job portals like Indeed and Workopolis to search for opportunities.
Contact recruiters and employers using CanadianSIM’s 1000 international minutes.

8. Budgeting: Manage Your Expenses Wisely

Planning a budget helps you manage upfront costs and ongoing expenses.

Use budgeting apps like Mint to track spending.
Save on groceries by exploring discount stores and bulk buying.

Conclusion

Moving to Canada requires careful preparation, from gathering documents to setting up housing, banking, and healthcare. Reliable communication is essential throughout the process. With CanadianSIM’s pre-activated SIM, unlimited data, and free delivery in India, you can stay connected from day one, ensuring a smooth transition to your new life in Canada.