Essential Documents and Items

Essential Documents and Items for Immigration to Canada

Introduction

Given the baggage limitations for travelers, customs regulations, and the importance of having the necessary documents available in Canada, preparing your documents and belongings properly is one of the most important parts of getting ready for immigration.
This guide highlights the key points you should consider before your trip.

Essential Documents for Travel

Depending on your type of immigration (permanent residency, study permit, or work permit), the required documents may vary. However, the following items are important for most immigrants:

Document	Description
Passport	For yourself and all accompanying family members, with sufficient validity.
Immigration Documents	Such as Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR), study permit, or work permit.
Tickets and Boarding Passes	Keep these documents until the end of your trip and after receiving your luggage.
Cash	Carry enough cash for travel expenses and the first two weeks. It is recommended to bring a combination of Canadian dollars and US dollars.
Declaration of Cash	If you carry CAD 10,000 or more per person, you must declare it at the Canadian customs (as well as the Immigration Officer).
Car Insurance History	If you have a no-claim insurance history, obtain the certificate from the Central Insurance of Iran and have it officially translated to benefit from discounts in Canada. Click here to navigate to the Central Insurance website.
Driver’s Licence	Make sure to bring your original Iranian driver’s licence. The international license only serves as a temporary translation and does not replace a Saskatchewan or Iranian driver’s licence.
Iranian Identification Documents	Such as birth certificate (shenasnameh), national ID card, and military service completion or exemption card (along with certified translations).
Language Certificate	If you have a physical copy of your language test (e.g., IELTS or CELPIP), bring it with you.
Educational Documents	Bring original diplomas and their official translations for future study or work purposes.
Children’s Vaccination Records	Required for registering children in schools.
Children’s Latest Academic Records	For high school students, the latest report card and official translation will be needed.
List of Valuable Items	If you plan to ship personal belongings later (such as carpets or jewelry), prepare a list with photographs and values, and present them to the immigration officer upon arrival for official registration.
Medical Prescriptions	If you require specific medications and are carrying medicine, bring the related medical prescriptions.
Photo Albums or Sentimental Items	Carry a few sentimental items to maintain a connection with home.
Work Experience Letter	If possible, obtain a confirmation letter from your previous employer verifying your work history.
Irancell SIM Card	Only Irancell SIM cards support roaming and receiving text messages in Canada; Hamrah Aval SIM cards are not functional here.

Managing Your Luggage

Given the baggage limitations on flights (usually two suitcases per passenger), carefully choosing what to pack is very important.

Recommended Item	Notes
Medications	If you need specific medications, bring them with a prescription, limited to a three-month supply.
Clothing	Bring some initial warm clothing, but purchase specialized winter gear after arriving in Canada. Formal clothing tends to be more expensive and less readily available than in Iran.
Food Items	Importing dairy, meat, and raw plant products into Canada is prohibited. However, you can bring dried herbs, Iranian spices, and non-perishable foods.
Tobacco Products	The maximum allowance is 200 cigarettes per person; exceeding this limit may result in fines.
Electronic Devices	Devices that use adapters (such as mobile phones and laptops) can be used in Canada. High-consumption devices like hair dryers should be purchased locally.
Plug Adapters	Bring a few plug adapters for Canadian outlets (Type A/B).
Non-Essential Items	Avoid bringing dishes, large amounts of food, or bedding, as these can be easily and affordably purchased in Canada.

Conclusion

Properly preparing your documents and thoughtfully organizing your luggage will make your settlement process in Canada simpler, more cost-effective, and less stressful.

Remember, the goal of carrying essential items is to cover your immediate needs and to avoid unnecessary expenses during your first few weeks in Canada.

Disclaimer

The information provided in these resources is intended for informational purposes only, and its accuracy is not guaranteed. The Saskatoon Iranian Cultural Association accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of the content or any consequences resulting from the use of the provided information.

These resources are the property of the Saskatoon Iranian Cultural Association and may be freely referenced, provided that a link to the corresponding page on the Association’s website is included.

Essential Documents and Items