List of Documents to Bring when Landing in Canada

Passport and Travel Documents

Your passport is your primary travel document. Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from Canada.

For Permanent Residents:

• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR): This document is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and includes your personal identification number.
• Permanent Resident Visa (if applicable): Some immigrants will have this visa in their passport.

For Citizens:

• Canadian Passport: A valid Canadian passport is the best document to prove your identity and citizenship when coming back home.

For Visitors, Students, and Workers:

• Temporary Resident Visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): Depending on your country of origin, you’ll need one of these to enter Canada.
• Study or Work Permit: If you’re coming to study or work, ensure you have the appropriate permit issued by IRCC.

Supporting Identification Documents

Carry other forms of identification that may be requested upon arrival:

• Birth Certificate
• Driver’s License
• Government-issued ID cards

Financial Proof

Especially for new immigrants and temporary residents, proving your financial means to support yourself in Canada is crucial:

• Bank Statements
• Proof of Funds: If you’re arriving as a new permanent resident, you’ll need to show proof of funds as per IRCC’s requirements.
• Credit Cards

Health Documents

Health documentation is essential for accessing medical services and in the current global health climate:

• Immunization Records
• Medical Examination Confirmation: If you underwent a medical examination prior to arrival.
• Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance is necessary until you’re eligible for Canadian health coverage.

Employment and Education Documents

If you intend to work or study, these documents are key:

• Educational Credentials
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Letters of Reference
• Employment Offer or Contract: If you’ve secured employment beforehand.
• Transcripts and Diplomas

Accommodation Evidence

Especially for new arrivals, showing where you intend to stay can be useful:

• Lease Agreement or Letter from Friends/Family confirming your initial accommodation.

Legal Documents

These documents could be important, particularly if you’re landing with family:

• Marriage Certificate
• Divorce or Separation Documents
• Custody Documents
• Adoption Papers

Immigration Papers

For those immigrating, specific documents related to your application are necessary:

• Express Entry Documents: Including your profile number and Job Seeker validation code.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Documents: If you’ve been nominated by a province.

Additional Documents

Other documents might be specific to your situation:

• Vehicle Import Papers: If you’re bringing a vehicle into Canada.
• Pet Vaccination and Health Records: If traveling with pets.

Copies and Backups

Having digital or photocopies of all your documents can save you from unforeseen circumstances where original documents are lost or stolen:

• Digital Scans: Keep them in secure cloud storage or on a USB stick.
• Photocopies: Store them separately from the original documents.

Custom and Declaration Forms

Upon arriving, you’ll need to fill out certain forms provided by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA):

• Customs Declaration Card: You’ll be given this on the plane or upon arrival.

For Returning Canadians

If you’re a Canadian citizen returning from abroad, remember to bring:

• Proof of Residence: If you’ve been away for an extended period.
• List of Goods Accompanying and Goods to Follow: If you’re moving back permanently.

What are the current requirements for health insurance for temporary residents in Canada?

The requirements for health insurance for temporary residents in Canada, such as visitors, international students, and foreign workers, can vary depending on the province or territory and the specific circumstances of the individual. Here are some general points to keep in mind:

1. Visitors to Canada: Visitors are not covered by Canadian public health insurance plans and should purchase private visitor health insurance before arriving in Canada. This insurance should cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation.
2. International Students: Some provinces include international students in their provincial healthcare plans, but the coverage can start after a waiting period, which is typically three months. Students in provinces that don’t provide medical coverage to international students, or during the waiting period, are required to purchase private health insurance. Many educational institutions offer health insurance plans for international students, or students can purchase their own from private insurance providers.
3. Foreign Workers: Temporary foreign workers who will be residing in Canada for more than six months may be eligible for provincial healthcare coverage, but this again is subject to a waiting period depending on the province or territory. During the waiting period, foreign workers should have private health insurance coverage.
4. Provincial and Territorial Requirements: Each province and territory has its health insurance plan with specific eligibility criteria. For instance, British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec have health insurance plans that cover temporary residents, including some temporary foreign workers and international students, but eligibility requirements can vary.
5. Proof of Insurance: Temporary residents may need to provide proof of health insurance at the port of entry or when applying for a work or study permit.
6. COVID-19 Coverage: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Canadian government required all incoming travelers to have health insurance that covered COVID-19-related medical expenses. While many restrictions have been lifted, it is still prudent to have coverage for COVID-related healthcare needs.

It is important to note that immigration and healthcare policies are subject to change. Therefore, it’s advisable to check the latest requirements from:

• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): For federal immigration-related guidelines.
• Provincial or territorial health ministries: For specific healthcare coverage information and eligibility in the province or territory where you will be residing.
• Educational institutions: For their policies on health insurance for international students.

Before traveling or moving to Canada, temporary residents should consult with an insurance provider, a legal advisor, or the Canadian consulate or embassy in their home country to ensure they meet all health insurance requirements.

Conclusion

Your landing in Canada should be a moment of excitement and new beginnings, not stress. Ensuring you have all necessary documents organized and accessible will help make your arrival as smooth as possible. Double-check your list, prepare your paperwork, and welcome to Canada – your new home awaits!

Remember, while this guide is thorough, always check the latest requirements from IRCC and CBSA, as regulations can change. Safe travels and a hearty welcome to the land of the maple leaf!