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Settle in Canada — your first 90 days
Step-by-step guides for everything you need after landing: SIN, banking, healthcare, housing, schools, and driver's licence. Built for newcomers, by RCIC consultants.
Get a SIN (Social Insurance Number)
A SIN is mandatory to work, open most bank accounts and access government benefits in Canada. As a new permanent resident or work-permit holder, you can apply free of charge in person at any Service Canada office on landing day, online via My Service Canada Account, or by mail. Most applicants receive their SIN within 15 minutes in person.
Read guideOpen a Canadian Bank Account
Most major Canadian banks (RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC) offer free newcomer banking packages — no monthly fees for the first 12 months, free international wire transfers, and bonuses up to CAD 500. You can pre-open an account before landing through programs like RBC Newcomer Advantage or Scotiabank StartRight.
Read guideApply for a Provincial Health Card
Universal public healthcare in Canada is administered by each province, so you must apply for a provincial health card after landing. Most provinces issue cards in 10–60 days. Ontario, BC, and Quebec impose a 3-month waiting period for new residents — buy private health insurance to cover this gap.
Read guideRent an Apartment in Canada
Rental markets in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are highly competitive — landlords typically require credit history, employment letters, references, and 1–2 months' rent upfront. Newcomers can overcome zero Canadian credit by paying 6–12 months upfront, providing a Canadian co-signer, or using guarantor services like SingleKey.
Read guideEnroll Your Children in Canadian School
Public schools (K–12) are free for permanent residents and most work-permit holders' children. Register at your local school board within 1–2 weeks of arrival — bring proof of address, child's birth certificate, immunization records, and PR documents. School year runs September to June; enroll mid-year if needed.
Read guideGet a Canadian Driver's Licence
Most provinces accept foreign driver's licences for 60–90 days after landing. To get a permanent Canadian licence, exchange your foreign licence (some countries) or take written + road tests. Provinces with reciprocal agreements (UK, Germany, Japan, Australia, USA) allow direct exchange. Others must take all tests.
Read guideNeed personalized settlement help?
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