It’s an exciting time to be heading to Canada for your studies! Before you board that plane, there are a few essential steps to ensure a smooth arrival. Imagine yourself settling into your new life in Canada with no hiccups – that’s what we’re aiming for!
Pre-Departure Checklist: Getting Ready for Your New Canadian Life
Before you jet off, explore the pre-departure guide filled with helpful advice about student life in Canada. It’s packed with valuable tips that will help you navigate your new surroundings.
To guarantee a smooth transition into Canada, review the Canadian Border Services Agency’s information designed for international students. Download their handy PDF pamphlet for quick access to essential details. This pamphlet is like a guidebook to the Canadian border process, making your arrival a breeze!
When’s the Right Time to Arrive?
There’s no strict deadline for your arrival before starting your studies. Just aim to arrive with enough time to settle in and prepare for your academic journey. You’ll want to be ready and relaxed for your first day of classes!
Remember, working on or off campus before the start of your program is not permitted. Focus on settling in and getting ready for your exciting studies.
Changing Institutions: A Simple Update
If you’ve received your study permit approval but need to switch your designated learning institution, there’s a simple process. Just submit a fresh study permit application with your new acceptance letter. Don’t forget to pay the associated fees for your new application.
Your Canadian Welcome: Arriving at the Border
As you step onto Canadian soil, you’ll meet a friendly border services officer. They’ll ensure you meet some basic requirements for entry, such as possessing a valid passport, the port of entry letter sent by the visa office (which contains your permit reference number), and a letter of acceptance from your chosen institution.
You’ll also need any other documents the visa office requested, like reference letters. Don’t forget your eTA or any other valid travel document. A valid eTA will be linked to the passport you used for your study permit application.
It’s also essential to have enough money for your stay (the amount will depend on your length of stay and living arrangements) and no criminal convictions. The border officer will want to be sure you have ties to your home country (like a job, home, or family) that will encourage you to return after your studies.
Last but not least, ensure you have valid immigration medical exam results if required. These are valid for 12 months from the date of the exam and must be valid on the day you enter Canada.
Proof of Entry: Making Your Stay Official
To confirm your entry into Canada, your school or training facility might request proof. If you need this, ask a border services officer to stamp your passport before leaving customs. Another option is to use a Primary Inspection Kiosk to get your passport stamped.
In Their Best Interests: Canadian Entry Regulations
Remember, there are certain individuals who are inadmissible to Canada, meaning they are not permitted to enter. These regulations protect Canada’s security, health, and financial wellbeing.
Criminal activity, human rights violations, organized crime, and other security, health, or financial reasons can make someone inadmissible to Canada. To learn more about these regulations, explore the information available on inadmissibility.
This information is designed to help you prepare for a smooth and successful journey to Canada. Be sure to review the resources mentioned, and you’ll be well on your way to an exciting and enriching experience!
