Vancouver Starter Pack
Your step-by-step guide to settling in. Check off tasks as you go!
Proper preparation before coming to Canada makes the transition much smoother. Take care of visa applications, document gathering, financial planning, and research well in advance. The more you prepare now, the less stressful your first days in Vancouver will be.
Start preparing at least 3 months before your departure! Scan all important documents and save them in the cloud β you never know when you'll need a backup.
- Apply for your visa or permit (study/work/PR)
- Gather and apostille important documents (diplomas, birth certificate, etc.)
- Purchase travel and health insurance for the initial period
- Set up an international money transfer method and bring enough CAD
- Research Vancouver neighborhoods, cost of living, and weather
You've made it! After landing at YVR (Vancouver International Airport), you'll go through customs and immigration. Make sure your documents are ready and you know where you'll be staying for your first few days.
Honk! Get a SIM card at the airport or use free Wi-Fi to contact your host. Also grab a transit map β you'll need it!
- Prepare passport, visa, and landing documents
- Arrange temporary accommodation (first 2 weeks)
- Pack layers β Vancouver weather changes fast!
Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is required for working in Canada, filing taxes, and accessing government benefits. Apply at a Service Canada office as soon as possible after arrival.
You can apply in person at Service Canada or online. It's free and usually takes just one visit. Keep your SIN safe β never share it unnecessarily!
- Visit Service Canada or apply online
- Bring passport + work/study permit
- Keep your SIN number safe and private
You'll need a Canadian bank account to receive wages, pay rent, and manage daily expenses. The Big 5 banks (RBC, TD, BMO, Scotiabank, CIBC) all offer newcomer packages with waived fees for the first year.
Most big banks have newcomer programs with no monthly fees for 1 year. Book an appointment before you go β branches get busy!
- Compare newcomer banking packages
- Open a chequing & savings account
- Apply for a secured credit card to build credit
A Canadian phone number is essential for job applications, banking verification, and staying connected. Major carriers include Rogers, Telus, Bell, and budget options like Freedom, Koodo, and Fido.
Budget carriers like Freedom Mobile, Koodo, or Public Mobile offer great deals. Check if your phone is unlocked before buying a plan!
- Compare plans (look for newcomer deals)
- Activate a Canadian phone number
Vancouver has an excellent transit system (SkyTrain, buses, SeaBus) operated by TransLink. Get a Compass Card to pay for rides. You can load it with stored value or buy a monthly pass.
Get a Compass Card at any SkyTrain station. A monthly pass (Zone 1) is around $110 and gives you unlimited rides. Google Maps works great for route planning!
- Get a Compass Card at a SkyTrain station
- Learn your daily commute routes
BC's Medical Services Plan (MSP) covers basic medical care. There may be a waiting period (up to 3 months) for new residents. Consider private insurance to cover the gap. Apply online through Health Insurance BC.
Apply for MSP right away β the 3-month waiting period starts from your arrival date, not your application date. Get private bridge insurance!
- Apply for MSP through Health Insurance BC
- Get private insurance for the waiting period
- Register at a walk-in clinic or find a family doctor
Vancouver's rental market is competitive. Start searching early on Hellomark, Craigslist, and Facebook groups. Be prepared with references, pay stubs (or proof of funds), and ID for viewings.
Average rent in Vancouver is $2,200β$2,800 for a 1-bedroom. Areas like Burnaby, New Westminster, and Surrey are more affordable alternatives!
- Browse rental listings on Hellomark
- Schedule viewings for shortlisted places
- Review lease terms carefully before signing
Update your resume to Canadian format (no photo, no marital status). Register on job boards, attend networking events, and consider volunteering to gain local experience and references.
Canadian resumes don't include photos or personal info like age/gender. Tailor each application to the job posting β quality over quantity!
- Reformat resume to Canadian style
- Search jobs on Hellomark and LinkedIn
- Apply and follow up within a week
Hellomark is cheering you on!
We hope you settle into your new life with ease. Hellomark is always here for you. π