Newcomer Financial Checklist

Track your progress from pre-arrival to your first year in Canada.

Printed from WhatIsCredit.ca on October 20, 2026

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Before Arrival0 of 5

Gather all immigration documentsResearch Canadian citiesOpen a Canadian bank account (some allow remote opening)Arrange temporary housingGet international health insurance

First Week0 of 5

Apply for SIN at Service CanadaOpen/activate bank accountGet a Canadian phone numberApply for health card (provincial)Set up a mailing address

First Month0 of 5

Learn how credit works, then decide whether to applySet up a budget in CADResearch tenant rightsRegister for government benefitsStart job search (if applicable)

First 3 Months0 of 5

Build emergency fundUnderstand Canadian taxesGet familiar with credit bureausConsider RRSP/TFSA accountsReview your credit report