Move to Canada

Here are a few things to consider before and after your move to Canada.

Before you arrive

What you need to know about immigration

To study, work or immigrate permanently to Canada, you’ll need either a visa, permanent resident status or Canadian citizenship. For all the information you need about these key requirements, visit the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website.

If you want to settle in Quebec, you'll need to contact the Government of Québec - Immigration administration, who will be able to guide you through the process, whether you are a student, worker or sponsored by a family member.

The Canadian financial system

A few facts about the Canadian financial system:

• The currency used in Canada is the Canadian dollar (C$ or CAD).
• 1 Canadian dollar equals 100 cents (¢).
• Coins are in denominations of 1 ¢, 5 ¢, 10 ¢, 25 ¢, $1 and $2 and bills in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100.
• Each year you must file an income tax return to the Canadian government, and, if residing in Quebec, to the Government of Québec.
• The Canadian financial system protects your money and helps you make it grow. It is strictly regulated.

Use our currency calculator for banknotes or currency calculator for cheques and drafts to see the value of your country’s currency in Canadian dollars.

It is advisable to arrive with some Canadian money already in hand.

Open an account in a trustworthy financial institution

It's important to select a financial institution that understands your situation and can do everything it can to meet your needs.

As the largest cooperative financial institution in Québec, Desjardins's goal is to provide you with products and services tailored to your needs.

Find out more about products and services provided by Desjardins.

At Desjardins, you can also open an account from another country. This way you can transfer funds into your account ahead of your move. Once you're arrived, you'll simply need to go to Carrefour Desjardins to finalize the process.

• Find out more about international money transfers.
• Learn about the role of Carrefour Desjardins.
• Apply to open an account from another country.
• Find out more about Newcomer Emergency Health Insurance, exclusive to Desjardins.

Once you've arrived

Now what? Here’s a check-off list of things you’ll need to settle in.

• Change your money into Canadian currency.
• If you haven't done so already, open an account at Desjardins.
• Find housing
• Get a social insurance number.
• Get a health-insurance card.
• Get a driver's licence.
• Take out private health insurance, if required.
• Take steps to find employment.
• Get to know your adopted home region.
• Find a health-care professional.
• Register your kids for school.
• Get higher-skill training, if needed.
• Get to know the Canadian financial framework.

Welcome to Desjardins, the largest cooperative financial group in Canada	See our Brochure for newcomers to Canada (PDF, 1 MB).