After arriving in Canada

ⓘ Latest immigration updates: Read the most up-to-date immigration policy announcements from IRCC covering topics like study permits, work eligibility, and more.

After-arrival checklist

Use the checklist below to ensure a smooth transition before your studies begin. If you have questions or require transitional support, contact International Student Advising.

During your first week of arrival

1. Apply for the BC Medical Services Plan (MSP): Once you complete the application there is a three-month waiting period
   • To cover your first three months in BC, check that you have iMED health insurance
2. Open a Canadian bank account: View the guide to banking in Canada
3. Get a Canadian phone plan: Learn how to find the right plan for your needs and compare network coverage
4. Sign into UBC’s wireless network: ubcsecure
5. Download the Transit App: View live updates on bus scheduling, routes, and navigating around Kelowna
6. Install the UBC Safe App and add emergency service numbers to your phone:
   • Police, fire, ambulance – 911
   • Campus emergency – 250 807 8111
   • Campus non-emergency – 250 807 9236
7. Get your UMO Bus Pass:
   • UMO app – Redeem your benefit code on the UMO app (your benefit code is sent from the SUO to the email you have listed in Workday) OR
   • Physical card – Pick up a physical UMO card from the SUO Office (UNC 133) and register the card 
8. Get your UBC student ID: Apply online for your UBCcard and pick up your physical card from Enrolment Services on the UNC 2nd floor
   • Note: If you’re attending Jump Start, your ID card will be distributed during the orientation

Within the first three weeks of your arrival

1. Finalize your course schedule: You may adjust your registration until the add/drop (course change) deadline
2. Pay your tuition and fees: Learn about your tuition payment options and note the tuition and fee deadline
3. Learn how to get vaccinated or register your COVID-19 vaccine if you’ve been vaccinated outside of BC
4. Apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN): Follow the guide on how to get a Social Insurance Number in Canada
5. Set up immigration document reminders: Enter your document expiry dates in the UBC International Student Reminder System
6. Add your emergency contacts in Workday: This is required for all UBC students
7. Add Third Party Authorization in Workday (optional): This allows someone else, like a parent or guardian, to access or manage certain things on your behalf

Within the first month of your arrival

1. Photocopy all important documents and create digital backups of all files or images: This includes your study permit, temporary resident visa, and passport pages with biodata and stamps
2. Get a BCID card: Government-issued photo ID that can be used to verify your identity or age
3. Explore healthcare services: Learn about the health clinic and counselling on campus, find community walk-in clinics or pharmacies, and note the location of Kelowna General Hospital
4. Review the food map for UBCO students: Find emergency food resources, grocery stores, and deals
5. Become familiar with the Off-Campus Housing Guide
6. Prepare your family for life in Kelowna (if applicable): Register your children at a Central Okanagan Public School and review the Community & Family resources guide for information on immunizations, activities for spouses, and more

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If you need a temporary mailing address

If you don’t have a mailing address, you can rent a Post Office Box from Canada Post or use the mailing address of your friend or relative who is in Canada. You should not use the address of a friend who lives in UBC residence since they only accept mail for current residents.

After you’ve moved into your place of residence, remember to change all of your mailing addresses.

Learning about life in Canada

• UBC 101
• Health insurance for international students
• Working in Canada
• Getting to know Canada
• Welcome to Canada: publications for newcomers (IRCC)
• BC’s Newcomers’ Guides (available in 13 languages)
• Driving in BC
• Resources for if you have children
• Scams and fraud

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Resources

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The information on this page may change

The immigration information on this page has been reviewed and endorsed by Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) or Regulated International Student Immigration Advisors (RISIAs) in compliance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations. However, this is not a legal document and information may change without notice. Always refer to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the most up-to-date information.