Preparing Your Documents and Belongings for Immigration
Introduction
Given airline baggage limitations, customs regulations, and the importance of having necessary documents at hand, carefully preparing your documents and belongings is one of the most crucial steps in getting ready for immigration.
This guide outlines the key items and practical tips you should consider before your journey to Canada.
Essential Documents for Travel
The required documents may vary depending on your immigration category (permanent residency, study permit, or work permit), but the following are important for nearly all newcomers:
- Passport: For yourself and all family members, with sufficient validity.
- Immigration Documents: Such as Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR), study permit, or work permit.
- Tickets & Boarding Passes: Keep all tickets and boarding passes until after you have received your luggage.
- Cash: Carry enough cash for travel expenses and the first two weeks. Recommended: a mix of Canadian & US dollars.
- Declaration of Cash: If you carry CAD 10,000 or more per person, you must declare it to Canadian customs and immigration.
- Car Insurance History: Obtain a no-claim certificate from Iran's Central Insurance and have it officially translated for Canadian discounts.
- Driver's Licence: Bring your original Iranian driver's licence. The international license is only a translation, not a replacement.
- Iranian ID Documents: Such as birth certificate (shenasnameh), national ID card, and military service card, with certified translations.
- Language Certificate: Bring any physical copies of language test scores (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP).
- Educational Documents: Original diplomas and official translations, for future studies or employment.
- Children's Vaccination Records: Required for enrolling children in schools.
- Children's Academic Records: For high school students, bring latest report card and translation.
- List of Valuable Items: For future shipping of personal items (e.g., carpets, jewelry), prepare a list with photos and values for customs registration.
- Medical Prescriptions: Bring necessary medications along with related prescriptions (up to 3-month supply).
- Photo Albums/Sentimental Items: Carry a few items to help maintain a connection with home.
- Work Experience Letter: Obtain a letter from your previous employer confirming your job history.
- Irancell SIM Card: Only Irancell SIM cards support roaming in Canada (Hamrah Aval does not work for receiving texts).
Tip: For your car insurance history, ensure you receive a certificate that clearly shows the claim status for each policy. This can lead to sizable insurance discounts in Canada.
Managing Your Luggage
Most airlines allow two checked suitcases per passenger—so what you pack matters!
Consider these recommendations:
- Medications: Bring essential medications (up to 3-month supply) with prescriptions.
- Clothing: Pack initial warm clothing; buy specialized winter gear after arrival. Formalwear is pricier in Canada.
- Food Items: Import of dairy, meat, and raw plant products is prohibited. Dried herbs, spices, and non-perishables are allowed.
- Tobacco Products: Limit is 200 cigarettes per person; exceeding this can lead to fines.
- Electronic Devices: Devices using adapters (phones, laptops) are fine. High-consumption devices (hair dryers) should be bought locally.
- Plug Adapters: Bring a few plug adapters (Type A/B for Canada).
- Non-Essential Items: Avoid dishes, large food supplies, or bedding—these are easily and affordably purchased in Canada.
Note: Always check the latest Canadian customs and airline regulations before you fly.
Additional Practical Tips
- Scan and securely store digital copies of all important documents on a USB or cloud storage.
- Prepare a hand-carry bag with critical documents, one change of clothes, medications, and valuables.
- Make a checklist and double-check it before your final packing.
Conclusion
Properly preparing your documents and thoughtfully organizing your luggage will make your settlement in Canada simpler, less stressful, and more cost-effective.
The aim is to cover your immediate needs and avoid unnecessary expenses during your first few weeks in Canada.
Preparation brings peace of mind and helps you start your new journey with confidence.