Pre-departure Orientation
Pre- Departure Checklists for USA
Pre- Departure Checklists for Australia
Pre- Departure Checklists for Canada
1. Documentation
Required Documents:
- Passport with a valid Canadian student visa (Study Permit approval).
- Letter of Introduction from the Canadian embassy.
- Letter of Acceptance from the educational institution.
- GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) receipt (if applicable).
- Flight tickets.
- Proof of finances (bank statements, scholarship letters, etc.).
- Health insurance documents (if not covered by the province).Copies of important documents (digital and hard copies).
2. Travel Preparation
Packing Tips
- Weather-appropriate clothing (considering Canada’s cold winters).
- Medications with prescriptions (translated into English if necessary).
- Adapters for Canadian outlets (Type A/B plugs).
- Cultural items (Nepali spices, traditional wear, etc.).
Airport Procedures
- Immigration process (presenting the Letter of Introduction, financial proof).
- Declaration of items at customs (cash, food, etc.).
- Understanding Canada’s strict rules on carrying food, plants, and animals.
Jet Lag Management:
- Tips for adjusting to time differences.
3. Financial and Banking Matters
- Managing finances and budgeting in Canada.
- Opening a Canadian bank account.
- Understanding debit/credit card usage.
- Carrying initial funds in Canadian Dollars (CAD) for immediate expenses.
- Insights into the cost of living in Canadian provinces.
4. Academic and Campus Life
- Understanding Canadian academic culture (assignments, grading, plagiarism policies).
- Registering for classes and attending orientation programs.
- Using campus resources (libraries, counseling, fitness centers, student clubs).
- Importance of networking and joining student associations.
5. Accommodation and Transportation
- On-campus vs. off-campus housing:
- Securing accommodation and tips for leases.
- Housemate agreements and safety considerations.
- Public transportation systems (buses, trains, subways in major cities).
- Using apps like Google Maps and public transit apps for navigation.
6. Cultural Adaptation
- Overview of Canadian culture:
- Multiculturalism and inclusivity.
- Communication styles (politeness, small talk).
- Canadian holidays and festivals.
- Tips for overcoming culture shock and making new friends.
- Respecting Canadian laws and social norms.
7. Health and Safety
- Provincial health insurance (e.g., OHIP in Ontario, RAMQ in Quebec) and its coverage.
- Accessing healthcare services (doctors, walk-in clinics, hospitals).
- Mental health resources and stress management.
- Emergency numbers (911 for police, fire, and ambulance).
- Tips for staying safe during winter and extreme weather conditions.
8. Legal and Immigration Awareness
- Maintaining student visa conditions:
- Full-time enrollment.
- Work limits (20 hours per week during semesters).
- Process for renewing or extending a Study Permit.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) details and eligibility.
- Staying informed about Canadian laws and avoiding legal troubles.
9. Employment Guidance
- Finding part-time jobs on and off campus.
- Preparing a resume and cover letter (Canadian format).
- Using job portals like Indeed, LinkedIn, and university job boards.
- Applying for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work in Canada.
- Understanding taxes and filing returns if working.
10. Communication and Networking
- Getting a Canadian mobile number and selecting affordable plans.
- Staying connected with family and friends via internet services.
- Joining Nepali and international student associations in Canada.
- Utilizing university and community events to build networks.
11. Post-Arrival Checklist
- Reporting to the institution’s international office.
- Applying for a provincial health card (if applicable).
- Familiarizing with local grocery stores and shops.
- Setting up utilities (if living off-campus).
12. Personal Development
- Building time management skills and balancing studies with work.
- Volunteering and participating in extracurricular activities.
- Developing professional skills through internships and co-op programs.
- Exploring Canada during holidays and semester breaks.
13. Emergency Preparedness
- Preparing for natural hazards (snowstorms, floods, etc.).
- Saving emergency contact numbers (embassy, local police, university).
- Assembling an emergency kit (blankets, flashlights, non-perishable food).
Additional Tips
- Respect Indigenous cultures and histories.
- Stay environmentally conscious (recycling, reducing waste).
- Explore unique Canadian experiences like hockey games and maple syrup farms.
