Relocating to Canada is an exciting opportunity whether you are moving for work, study, permanent residence or family settlement. Canada offers a high quality of life, strong healthcare and excellent career prospects. However, a successful relocation requires thorough planning, correct documentation, financial preparation and well-managed international shipping.
This Canada Relocation Checklist is a detailed and practical guide covering everything from visas and accommodation to shipping your household goods and clearing Canadian customs to ensure your move is smooth and stress-free.
1. Canada Visa & Immigration Preparation
Your relocation journey starts with selecting the correct Canadian immigration pathway.
Common Canada Visa & Immigration Categories
- Permanent Residence (PR) – Express Entry
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Study Permit
- Work Permit
- Family Sponsorship
- Visitor Visa (temporary stays)
Essential Immigration Documents
- Valid passport
- Visa approval letter / Port of Entry (POE) letter
- Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) – for PR holders
- Job offer or Letter of Introduction
- Proof of funds
- Medical examination results
- Police clearance certificate
- Birth and marriage certificates (if applicable)
Carry printed copies and digital backups of all documents when travelling.
2. Financial Planning & Money Management
Canada’s cost of living varies by city, making financial planning essential.
Expenses to Plan For
- Visa or PR application fees
- Flight tickets
- Temporary accommodation
- Rental deposit and first month’s rent
- Living expenses (food, transport, utilities)
- Winter clothing (if moving from a warm country)
- Shipping or excess baggage costs
Banking & Taxes
- Open a Canadian bank account after arrival
- Carry international debit/credit cards initially
- Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work and pay taxes
- Understand federal and provincial taxes
3. Accommodation & Housing in Canada
Short-Term Accommodation
- Hotels
- Airbnb
- Serviced apartments
- Student housing (for students)
Long-Term Housing
- Research neighbourhoods based on budget and commute
- Attend property viewings
- Sign lease agreements
- Pay security deposit and rent in advance (rules vary by province)
Important:
Avoid sending deposits without verifying the landlord or property.
4. Employment & Career Preparation
Job Readiness
- Prepare a Canadian-style resume (1–2 pages)
- Update LinkedIn profile for the Canadian job market
- Register on job portals:
- Indeed Canada
- Job Bank
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Glassdoor
Work Essentials
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Employment contract
- Workplace benefits and pension contributions
- Reference letters from previous employers
5. Healthcare & Insurance in Canada
Healthcare Coverage
- Apply for provincial health insurance (e.g., OHIP, MSP, RAMQ)
- Some provinces have a waiting period
- Arrange private health insurance during the waiting period
Medical Preparation
- Prescriptions and medical reports
- Vaccination records
- Adequate supply of essential medicines
6. International Shipping & Relocation to Canada
Shipping your personal belongings to Canada is an important part of relocation, especially for permanent residents and long-term visa holders. Canada allows duty-free import of used personal and household goods for eligible newcomers.
A professional international relocation company helps with:
- Door-to-door shipping services
- Export-standard labelling
- Detailed inventory preparation
- Customs documentation support
- Guidance on restricted and prohibited items
- Coordination with Canadian customs for smooth clearance
- Safe delivery to your new Canadian address
Shipping household goods such as clothes, books, kitchen items and personal effects is often more cost-effective than buying everything again in Canada, particularly for families.
Proper documentation and accurate inventory lists are essential to avoid customs delays.
7. Canada Customs & Duty-Free Household Goods
Duty-Free Eligibility
New immigrants, returning residents and long-term visa holders may import used personal belongings duty-free, provided:
- Items are owned and used before arrival
- Goods are for personal use only
- A complete inventory is submitted
Required Customs Documents
- Passport and visa / COPR
- B4 or B4A Form (Personal Effects Accounting Document)
- Detailed packing list
- Shipping documents (Bill of Lading / AWB)
Failure to submit the B4 form can result in duties, taxes or shipment delays.
8. Packing & Canadian Customs Guidelines
Items to Pack Carefully
- Important documents
- Electronics (check voltage and plug compatibility)
- Warm clothing and winter accessories
- Personal essentials
Restricted or Prohibited Items
- Certain food products
- Plants, seeds and soil
- Firearms and weapons
- Excess alcohol and tobacco
Always declare items accurately to Canadian customs.
9. Travel & Arrival Preparation
Before Departure
- Visa and POE letter
- Canadian address (temporary or permanent)
- Shipping and customs documents
- Emergency contacts
On Arrival in Canada
- Complete landing formalities
- Apply for SIN
- Open bank account
- Get a local SIM card
- Arrange temporary transport
10. Education & Family Relocation
For Students
- Confirm enrolment and orientation
- Part-time work eligibility
- Study permit conditions
For Families
- School admissions
- Academic records and transcripts
- Child immunisation documents
11. Settling into Daily Life in Canada
Essential Registrations
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Provincial health card
- Bank account
- Driver’s licence exchange (if applicable)
Utilities & Services
- Electricity and heating
- Internet and mobile plans
- Public transport passes
Your Canada Relocation with Confidence
Relocating to Canada requires careful preparation, accurate documentation and reliable logistics support. From immigration approvals and housing to customs clearance and international shipping, every step plays a vital role in a successful move.
Partnering with an experienced Canada relocation and shipping company ensures your belongings arrive safely, customs-cleared and on time allowing you to focus on settling into your new life in Canada.