Arrival and documents

According to IRCC, without the required documents you won't be allowed into Canada. Preparing carefully before your flight makes your first day smoother.

Essential documents

For people immigrating (permanent residence), IRCC lists:

• a Canadian immigrant visa (if applicable);
• a Confirmation of Permanent Residence for each family member travelling with you;
• a valid passport or travel document for each person;
• 2 copies of a detailed list of personal and household items you're bringing;
• 2 copies of a list of items arriving later, with their value.

For workers: IRCC's port of entry letter of introduction, a passport with visa, the job offer and documents listed in the letter.

Keep these documents with you, not in checked luggage.

Your list of goods (settler's effects)

• Make 2 copies, preferably typed: each item's value, make, model and serial number (if any).
• Split it into goods you bring and goods arriving later with their value.
• Give it to the border officer on your first arrival, even if you bring nothing yet. You can fill in form BSF186 in advance.

Declaring money

You must declare more than CAD 10,000 in cash, cheques, bank drafts, travellers' cheques, money orders, or securities (stocks, bonds...). Not declaring can lead to fines and seizure.

Other documents to bring

• Vaccination records for the family (children need them to enrol in school).
• Marriage, divorce and birth certificates.
• Driver's licence, International Driving Permit and a letter from your car insurer.
• Reference letters from past employers, trade certificates.
• School records and diplomas for each person.

Have them translated into English or French before you go, and keep copies separate from the originals.

Note After arrival, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) accepts several documents as identification when travelling; for permanent residents, the PR card and passport are the main ones.