A Detailed Checklist You Have to Consider Before Moving from India to Canada for the First Time

Introduction: Your Complete Guide to Moving to Canada from India

Packing your bags full of dreams and ambition from India to Canada for the first time can feel both ecstatic and overwhelming. Between visa paperwork, packing, airport processes, and landing setup, you want to ensure nothing is missed. The transition from India to Canada requires careful planning and attention to detail.

This comprehensive guide serves as your complete checklist from pre-departure to arrival for Indians travelling to Canada for the first time. Whether you're coming as a student, worker, or visitor, this step-by-step guidance will help you navigate every phase of your journey with confidence.

1. The Pre-Departure Checklist (Before Leaving India)

Make sure to have the following things before you leave India. This is the foundation of a smooth transition to Canada.

Passport & Visa Essentials

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your travel date
• Keep all printed and original copies of:
  • Visa approval letter (Study/Work/Visit/PR)
  • IRCC confirmation documents
  • Biometrics confirmation certificate
  • Letter of introduction (for students or workers)
• Arrange all essential documents in a waterproof file
• Keep original documents in hand luggage for safety
• Organize photocopies in checked-in luggage
• Maintain digital copies on your mobile phone

Travel Insurance

While medical expenses in Canada are higher than India, having travel insurance is necessary and mandatory for students and work permit holders.

Your insurance should ideally cover:

• Medical emergencies
• Baggage loss
• Trip delay/cancellation
• Accidental injury

Book Flights the Smart Way

Choose flights that offer good baggage allowance, comfortable layover timings, and reliable airline service. Popular options include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Air Canada, Lufthansa, Air India, and British Airways.

Currency & International Payments

• Carry CAD 500–1500 in ready cash for immediate expenses
• Use an NRE/NRO debit card enabled for international use
• Carry VISA/MasterCard credit cards
• Inform your bank about your travel abroad

Canadian Accommodation Booking

• Book temporary accommodation before travelling
• Use apps like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hopper for bookings

2. Packing Checklist for Canada

Here is a detailed list of packing essentials. Avoid overpacking as you'll be limited by baggage allowance.

Documents to Carry

• Passport with visa
• International driving licence
• Flight tickets
• Travel insurance papers
• Passport-size photos
• Letter of introduction

Clothes to Pack

Canada's climate drastically differs from India's. Winter is particularly challenging, so pack accordingly.

For Winter Arrivals (Nov-Mar):

• Thermal wear (2–3 pairs minimum)
• Woollen sweaters
• Light jacket for first few days
• Woollen socks, gloves, beanie
• Warm scarf

For Summer Arrivals (April–Sept):

• 5+ cotton T-shirts
• Light hoodie
• Jeans/trousers
• Rain jacket (Canada rains unexpectedly!)

Electronics & Gadgets

• Power adapter (Type A/B for Canada)
• Power bank
• Mobile phone with charger
• Laptop with charger
• Pen drive/hard disk
• Earphones/headphones

Toiletries

Carry only what you need for 1-2 weeks:

• Toothpaste & brush
• Shampoo & conditioner (small pack)
• Soap/Body wash
• Razor & shaving kit
• Moisturizer (essential in Canada)

Medicines

Medicines are cheaper in India than Canada, so take essential medications:

• Paracetamol
• Cough syrup
• Fever/cold tablets
• Allergy medicine
• Basic first aid supplies
• Prescription medicines with doctor's note

Food Items to Carry

Carry dry or instant food items that are properly sealed:

• Tea powder
• Indian masala (sealed/packed properly)
• Instant noodles packets
• Dry snacks (mixture, boondhi)
• Avoid prohibited items like meat or cooked food

3. Airport Process in India & Canada

At Your Departure Airport in India

• Arrive 2 hours before departure
• Keep passport, visa, and ticket in hand

Baggage Screening & Security Checkup

• Your bags and electronics are scanned
• Keep important items in hand luggage
• Place mobile, belt, laptop, and metal items in a tray
• Follow instructions and cooperate with officers

Airline Check-in

• Show passport and visa at the counter
• Drop check-in luggage and collect boarding pass
• Ensure baggage weight meets airline limits

Immigration

• Show original passport with visa/study/work permit
• Answer confidently about purpose and duration of travel
• Cooperate with officers

Boarding Gate

• Find your gate number
• Be there 45 minutes early
• Boarding usually starts 30–45 minutes before departure

At Your Arrival Airport in Canada

Arrivals & Primary Inspection

Border officers will ask questions such as:

• Why are you coming to Canada?
• Where will you stay?
• How long is your stay?

Show your:

• Passport
• Letter of introduction
• Accommodation details
• Proof of funds (if asked)

Secondary Processing (For Students/Workers)

• Passport & visa
• Letter of introduction
• Biometrics confirmation
• College/job offer letter
• Proof of funds (if asked)

Baggage Claim

• Collect luggage at the conveyor belt
• Report missing bags immediately to airline counter

Customs Declaration

• Declare food, currency over CAD 10,000, or restricted items
• Follow the green lane if you have nothing to declare

4. After-Landing Essentials in Canada

After landing, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to set up your life. Here are the essential steps:

Get Your SIN (Social Insurance Number)

SIN is a 9-digit number provided by the Canadian government. It's mandatory for:

• Working in Canada
• Filing taxes
• Government benefits

Apply to Service Canada with your passport and permit.

Open a Bank Account

Popular banks among Indians include:

• RBC
• TD
• Scotiabank
• CIBC
• BMO

Get a Canadian SIM Card

Popular mobile providers include:

• Fido
• Koodo
• Freedom Mobile
• Rogers
• Telus

Keep your Indian SIM for OTPs and online banking.

Transportation Setup

Depending on your city:

• Get a Transit Pass (Presto, Compass, Opus)
• Download Google Maps/Transit App
• Purchase monthly passes if you travel often

5. Financial & Budget Planning for Newcomers

Things in Canada are slightly higher compared to India. With smart budget planning, you can manage expenses effectively.

Expected Monthly Expenses

Average expenses for an individual:

• Rent: CAD 600–1,500
• Groceries: CAD 150–300
• Phone plan: CAD 25–50
• Transit: CAD 80–160
• Miscellaneous: CAD 100–200

Tips for Saving Money

• Prepare food at home to avoid restaurant expenses
• Use coupons & flyers (Flipp, Flashfood)
• Shop at Dollarama for cheap essentials
• Buy grocery items in bulk
• Use public transit instead of Uber

6. Weather Preparation for Canada

Canada's climate is completely different from India's. Proper preparation is essential for your comfort and safety.

Winter Conditions

Temperatures can drop to:

• −5°C to −25°C (normal winter)
• −40°C in extreme Northern regions

Winter essentials:

• Thermal t-shirt and pants
• Waterproof snow boots
• Winter jacket
• Warm layers

Summer Conditions

Canadian summers are pleasant with temperatures of 15°C to 30°C. Pack:

• Sunscreen
• Light casual cotton clothes
• Sunglasses

7. Emergency Information for Newcomers

Save these important contact numbers:

• 911 – Police, Fire, Medical (urgent)
• 811 – Health Advice
• 211 – Community Services

8. Canadian Etiquette & Cultural Tips

Understanding Canadian etiquette helps you blend seamlessly into society:

• Stand in queues patiently
• Hold doors open for people
• Always respect others' personal space
• Provide tips for waiters (10–18%)
• Don't throw plastic or garbage in public places
• Be punctual on time

9. Final Tips Before You Travel

• Arrange all documents properly and cross-check details
• Carry a light jacket on the plane
• Pack your bags 2 days before travel
• Sleep well before your flight
• Download necessary apps: Transit, Moovit, Google Maps

10. Case Study: Success Story

A 21-year-old boy named Vijay dreamed of pursuing higher studies at the University of Toronto but was overwhelmed by the process. He had no idea where to start and was confused about requirements, deadlines, and documentation.

When he approached Consular Help Desk for personalized support, we connected him with one of Canada's best immigration lawyers. They guided him through every step—from university admission to visa application using legal protocols. His application was approved in just 4 months.

Vijay is now pursuing his dream career in Canada without any legal stress, thanks to proper guidance and planning.

11. Conclusion

Travelling from India to Canada for the first time may bring many hurdles. However, once you understand the process, it becomes as easy as pie. This complete checklist will help you pack with ease, feel confident, and get ready for your dream Canada trip.

The Consular Help Desk team is ready to provide comprehensive support and initial guidance to make your Canada trip as smooth as possible. Book your consultation now with Consular Help Desk and start your Canada journey with confidence!