If you’re arriving in Canada for the first time as an international student or temporary foreign worker, being prepared can make your arrival much smoother.
From carrying the right documents to understanding what happens at the airport, knowing what to expect can help you avoid unnecessary stress. This guide walks you through what to expect when you arrive in Canada on a permit so that you can focus on starting your new chapter in Canada.
So, without further ado, let us begin!
Keep Your Essential Travel Documents Handy
When entering Canada, both international students and temporary foreign workers must have certain documents on hand. Having everything organized and accessible is key, as you’ll be required to present them to Canadian border officers:
- Your passport or any valid travel document
- Proof of funds to support yourself during your stay
- A Visa or eTA (as applicable)
- Your letter of introduction (also known as your Port of Entry letter)
Note that the U.S. citizens, U.S. green card holders, and French citizens who are residents of St. Pierre and Miquelon are exempt from visa and eTA requirements. They must instead show proof of their citizenship or permanent resident status.
U.S. citizens and green card holders don’t require a letter of introduction. They can apply for their study permit directly at the port of entry.
In addition to these documents, you may also need additional paperwork depending on the type of permit you are entering with:
| Permit Type | Additional Documents Required |
| Study permit |
|
| Work permit |
|
It’s extremely important that you keep these documents with you in your carry-on baggage. Do not pack them in your checked luggage. It’s also smart to have a note with your Canadian address, emergency phone numbers, and a credit card or some Canadian currency for immediate use.
Getting Your Study Or Work Permit At The Airport
After landing in Canada, you will go through an interview conducted by a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer. This step takes place at your first port of entry into Canada, even if that airport is not your final destination.
You will be directed to line up for immigration and customs. Once you reach the counter, the officer will review your documents, ask you questions, and confirm whether you meet Canada’s entry requirements.
The officer will also assess your temporary resident intent, which means confirming that you understand and will respect the terms of your permit and leave Canada when it expires.
If the officer isn’t convinced that your intentions are genuine, they can refuse to issue your study or work permit.
Be honest during this interview. Providing false information is considered misrepresentation, which can lead to serious consequences including a five-year ban from entering Canada.
If approved, the officer will issue your study permit or work permit. Check this document carefully for errors like name misspellings, wrong dates, or incorrect institution or employer details. Any mistakes should be corrected immediately.
Tip: Many students come to Canada with plans to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and eventually permanent residence. IRCC recognizes “dual intent,” meaning you can intend to stay temporarily and still plan to apply for PR later.
Also, if your flight includes a domestic layover after entering Canada, be sure to leave enough time to complete the permit issuance process at your first point of entry.
Arriving In Canada Through A Land Border
If you’re entering Canada by land, such as through the U.S., the process is very similar.
You’ll be directed to park your vehicle and go inside a border services building to meet with a CBSA officer. You will undergo the same document verification and questioning process as travelers arriving by air.
Common Mistakes To Avoid At The Border
Apart from knowing what to expect when you arrive in Canada on a permit, it is also vital to avoid common mistakes at the border. Below are a few of them:
1. Not Declaring Cash Over $10,000
If you’re carrying 10,000 CAD or more, you must declare it. This includes not only Canadian dollars but also foreign currency and financial instruments such as:
- Bank drafts
- Cheques
- Traveller’s cheques
- Money orders
- Bearer’s bonds
There is no limit to how much money you can bring into Canada, but failing to declare amounts over $10,000 can result in the funds being seized.
2. Bringing Too Much Prescription Medication
Canada places restrictions on the amount of prescription drugs you can bring into the country. Generally, you can bring up to a 90-day supply of prescription medication for personal use.
If you’re carrying medication:
- Keep it in its original packaging
- Bring a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s note
- Be prepared to explain your medical need to the border officer
3. Failing To Declare Controlled Substances
Some prescription drugs fall under Canada’s Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. If this applies to your medication, you must declare it, even if you’re not specifically asked.
You must:
- Carry a valid prescription issued in your name
- Keep the medication in its original pharmacy packaging
- Bring only a personal supply (a single course of treatment or up to 30 days, whichever is less)
Commonly prescribed controlled substances include medications such as opiates and stimulants.
Canada has strict regulations, and there are hundreds of substances that fall under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. It’s important to verify whether any medication you’re carrying is classified as a controlled substance.
Keep in mind that your prescription might be labeled with a brand name, but what matters is the actual active ingredient. Make sure to check the specific substances in your medication.
For example, Adderall is a brand name, but its active ingredients are amphetamine and dextroamphetamine.
4. Not Knowing Which Items Are Prohibited Or Must Be Declared
There are certain items you must declare upon entry to Canada, including:
- Food, plants, and animals
- Alcohol, tobacco, and vaping products
- Firearms and weapons
Some items are strictly prohibited. You cannot bring the following into Canada:
- Cannabis or cannabis-containing products
- Illegal drugs
- Prohibited firearms or other weapons
- Sick animals
- Endangered species or their parts
- Packages with uncertain contents
Declaring these items upfront can help you avoid fines or other complications at the border.
Getting Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Another thing to expect when you arrive in Canada on a permit is to get your Social Insurance Number (SIN).
Well, a Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number issued to individuals in Canada. It’s required to work legally in the country and to access various government benefits.
International students need a SIN if they plan to work during their studies. Similarly, temporary foreign workers must have a SIN to begin their jobs.
Some major Canadian airports have Service Canada centers on site, making it possible to apply for a SIN immediately upon arrival.
Service Canada centers are available at:
- Toronto Pearson International Airport
- Montréal Trudeau International Airport
- Vancouver International Airport
- Halifax Stanfield International Airport
- Calgary International Airport
- Edmonton International Airport
If you land outside regular business hours or if the center is closed, you can apply online or visit a Service Canada office after your arrival.
Final Thoughts
Arriving in Canada is a big milestone whether you’re coming to study or work. By keeping your essential documents accessible, preparing for the CBSA interview, and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure a smoother arrival experience.
Remember: honesty and preparation go a long way in making your entry stress-free. Once you’ve completed the process, you can start settling into your new life in Canada with confidence.
CWRVisa, a Canadian immigration leader, promises excellence and tailored pathways for your Canadian journey. Get in touch with us at CWRVisa.ca.