Immigration is a massive journey and there is SO MUCH to think about and plan. From the day you make the decision to the time you get on the plane, your life is going to consist of one big check list!
I’ve recently been looking back at our journey to Canada and when I think back, it really is incredible how much work it involved. Immigration is hard work and you have to put the hard work in to make it happen.
To make your life a little easier, for those of you considering a move to Canada or who are already in the process, here’s a comprehensive list to help you along your way:
- Do your research. Is Canada somewhere you see yourself living?
- Figure out if you’re eligible and what visa stream would work for you
- Decide if you want to work through an agent or go it alone
- Gather all the required docs (see more specifics below)
- Fill in all relevant forms for visa application
- Get all relevant documents copied and certified
- Take the IELTS exams
- Arrange transcripts and certificates to send to WES
- Arrange and collect birth and marriage certificates
- Arrange visa photos
- Arrange reference letters from previous employers
- Sort out investment policies
- Sell house
- Look for rental accommodation in the interim
- Have medical checks
- Arrange police clearance
- Get bank statements printed
- Arrange driver’s license clearance
- Sell cars
- Cancel all existing South African accounts – streaming, cell phone, TV licence, internet
- Ensure you give a trusted person signing power over your bank accounts in case you need assistance with your banking
- Notify banks regarding bank cards/downgrade bank accounts
- Ensure there is enough money in your SA account for any ongoing debits
- Change bank notifications and OTP to email
- Get letter from car insurance
- Get reference letters from bank
- Get reference letters from landlord
- Give notice to school
- Give notice to employers
- Clear out the junk
- Sell unwanted goods
- Ensure SA phones are unlocked for overseas
- Arrange contact lenses/glasses/prescription meds
- Last dental check for the family
- Last visit to the hairdresser
- Have jewellery valued
- Have children’s vaccinations finalized and documents in order
- Compile goods to accompany list
- Compile goods to follow list
- Get quotes and arrange shipping
- Pack up house
- Pet passport and docs for pets
- Arrange transport for pets
- Book air tickets
- Arrange travel/health insurance
- Look for accommodation/arrange Airbnb for first few nights/weeks
- Say goodbye to friends and family
- And finally…Get on the airplane!!!
Looking for more info? Check out this list of useful links for Canadian immigration.
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