Moving to Canada?
A practical checklist from RUAA Canada for RU alumni arriving in Canada for work, study or family, put together by alumni who made the same move.
New to Canada? We run a newcomer circle each quarter covering credential recognition, resume conventions, SIN and banking, winter preparation and settling in the GTA.
Your arrival checklist
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Before you fly
Keep your passport, visa, offer letter and academic certificates in your hand luggage, with scanned copies in the cloud. Register with RUAA Canada before you land so we can welcome you.
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Your first week: ID and tax
Apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN) at Service Canada.
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Money and a phone
Open a Canadian bank account; most banks have newcomer packages. Get a local SIM or eSIM early, because many services need a local number.
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Find a place to live
Use trusted sites, never pay a deposit before viewing (in person or by video call) and read your tenancy agreement carefully. Ask alumni which areas suit your budget and commute.
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Healthcare
Apply for your provincial health card (OHIP, MSP, RAMQ and so on) straight away, as some provinces have a waiting period.
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Getting around
Get the city transit card (PRESTO in Ontario, Compass in Vancouver, OPUS in Montreal).
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Work and study
Get your credentials assessed (for example WES) and adapt your resume to the Canadian format.
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Connect with alumni
Come to a chapter event, join a members' meeting and search the alumni directory for RU alumni in your city. We can pair you with an alumni buddy.
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Stay safe
Save the local emergency number and the contact details of the nearest United Kingdom embassy or high commission. Keep your family informed of your address.
This guide is general advice from fellow alumni, not legal or immigration advice. Always check the latest official government guidance for your situation.