What to take for Canada?

Finally, you are holding the visa you have dreamed about so long. After the endless waiting, numerous documents and the interview, you begin the preparations for your trip. You look around the belongings you have, and you tell yourself that you will take only the things that are most precious to you. But when you open the empty suitcases, you realize that all you favorite little objects can not be packed in the “two 30-kg suitcases per person” usually permitted by the airline companies. You will look over and over your things while making lists with “these –yes; those – no”. In order to help you in avoiding any confusion before your departure, we would like to suggest you some recommendations. Most importantly, there are some essential documents and papers listed below that you and your family members must bring, when it is applicable:

A valid permanent resident visa affixed to your passport (issued by the Canadian authorities)

All documents must be originals or certified true copies. If the original documents are in a language other than French or English, an original translation (by a certified translator, consulate or embassy) or authentication by official authorities must be provided. This translation, must accompany all original documents.

These are the most important documents that you must not forget. It will be better to put all of them in your hand luggage, so they will be with you during the flight.

Be advised that your driver's license will be valid only for your first three months in Canada . After that you will have to get a Canadian driver's license. It is a good idea to take some of the most necessary medicaments you are used to take for the first months in your life in Canada . For example, in Canada you can not buy an antibiotic without a physician's prescription. Your Canadian medical care card will be valid three months after the date you have made the application for it, so you will not be ensured for this period. If you want, you can make a private insurance, but this is your choice. Remember, that all your documents issued by the Canadian or Provincial Authorities are of great importance and you must take care of them appropriately. The originals must always stay with you. If the authorities want to see the originals, you show the document, they make copies and the original rests with you.

Concerning the clothes and all other things you intend to take, our advice is “Do not overdo with them”. The Canadians like to feel comfortable, and they usually wear convenient and sport clothing, so you will not need more than one or two official suits. Furthermore, you can find every type of clothes in the Canadian market on affordable prices.

When you arrive for the first time in Canada , do not risk in carrying some of your favorite national foods or beverages, which are in the list of forbidden goods to enter Canada with. Your baggage will be checked, and you risk being included in the Canadian customs computer. You will have to pay a fine, and additionally you and your baggage will be carefully and strictly examined every time you enter Canada .

Finally, the most important thing is to avoid the panic while packing your baggage. There always will be something small you have forgotten. You are faced with a long trip and a big change in your life. And as an old wise tale says “Stand in front of a mirror, gather all your fears, put them in a small box, lock it and throw away the key” - then you are ready to go.

Good luck and enjoy your flight!