Are you considering a long or working stay in Canada? Then check out our list of vital things you’ll need to do before you go.
Get yourself a visa or work permit.
First, you will need a visa or work permit to enter Canada at the border. There are different visas and permits for different purposes, so be sure to get the one for work if you will be working.
These documents can sometimes take months to arrange and require lots of evidence, so it is best to sort these well ahead of time. Remember, if you do not have the correct documents that allow you to stay/work, you risk being denied entry into the country, deportation, and imprisonment.
Book your flights
Most people arrive in Canada by air, so that means finding and booking your flights. Since you are heading there for a longer amount of time, you can save money by booking less popular flight times and flights with stopovers.
Yes, it will take you longer, and you may arrive in Canada at a less desirable time on your first day, but it's probably well worth the savings you will make. If you are worried about finding your way around a new place in the dark after a long flight, then just book an airport hotel for the first night while you get acclimated to your new surroundings.
Make sure you have a driving license.
If you are planning to drive during your stay (and you will want to, as Canada's a pretty big place), you will need a driving license that is valid in Canada. Unfortunately, this can be a bit confusing as the requirements differ from province to province and territory to territory. At the same time, some allow those from overseas a straight exchange, while others insist that you take a drive test when you arrive in the country. It's best to do your due diligence on this and check out what the requirements will be in the territories and provinces you will be visiting.
Work out where you will stay.
If you are visiting Canada for a long time, then you will need to sort out some long-term accommodation. Some people prefer to do this before they enter the country as it provides some extra stability and shows the border force that you are well organized.
However, other people prefer to visit the country and get familiar with their surroundings first and then choose the city and neighborhood in which they want to live. If this second option appeals to you, be sure to get some temporary accommodation set up for the first two weeks so you are not left with nowhere to go.
Get a Canadian mobile phone.
Last of all, you’ll need a mobile phone for your time in Canada. If you want to bring your current phone with you will need to let your old provider know you are canceling the contract in plenty of time. You’ll also have to get permission for your old number to be transferred to a network in Canada.
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