One of the most important aspects of your immigration journey is ensuring a soft landing in Canada. Moving to a new country is a thrilling journey. For someone on their way to Canada with confirmation of permanent residence (COPR), the excitement gets mixed with anticipation and questions. A soft landing ensures that you can validate your COPR and start this new life of being a permanent resident.
After you have decided whether you are going to live in Canada right away or return to your home country to complete other commitments, it is necessary to know how to gear up for this very critical step. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know and do to make your soft landing in Canada a success. From understanding the process to packing your bags and meeting the requirements, this blog will cover it all in an easy-to-follow manner.
Understand the Purpose of a Soft Landing in Canada
Soft landing in Canada means that it is the process of first time entry into Canada with your COPR to confirm your permanent resident status. It is a step for people whose applications for permanent residence have been approved. Although you may not be ready to move to Canada at this moment, doing the soft landing secures your permanent resident status and you can go back at a later time to start living there. With this, you get to ensure that you secure your PR card, a document important in returning back to Canada.
Travel During Good Seasons
You need to avoid booking a flight without confirming your COPR’s validity. In case your COPR is issued alongside the medical examination results, make sure to enter Canada for the soft landing process before it becomes invalid. And make sure to select travel dates that allow you to have enough time to take the necessary steps such as providing your address for the PR card or meeting settlement service providers. Where possible, avoid traveling during peak periods because this can cost you a lot and be quite stressful.
Gather All the Necessary Documents
You need to have the right documents ready for a soft landing. When you travel, make sure you carry all the following:
- Your valid passport with the COPR document.
- Evidence of funds in the form of bank statements showing that you are meeting the requirements.
- A list of goods you intend to bring along with you and those you intend to bring later, “Goods Accompanying” and “Goods to Follow”.
- Any other document specified in your immigration correspondence such as medical records or a job offer letter.
Ensure these documents are complete and well-organized so that the immigration officer at the port of entry can review them.
Understand the Arrival Process
Once you arrive in Canada, you will go through immigration processing at the port of entry. Here’s what to expect:
- The immigration officer will review your COPR and passport.
- You will be questioned on your plans in Canada, like where you are going to stay and whether you have enough money.
- Your photograph and signature will be taken for your PR card.
The officer will stamp your COPR once the process is done. This stamp is what officially declares you a permanent resident. Congratulations! You have now successfully completed your soft landing in Canada.
Make Temporary Accommodation Arrangements
If you are planning to go back to your home country after your soft landing, you will need temporary accommodation for your stay in Canada. Find a place to stay in advance, whether it is a hotel, Airbnb, or short-term rental. If you have family or friends in Canada, you may also consider staying with them. Ensure your accommodation is close to necessary amenities like public transportation, grocery stores, and banks.
Open a Canadian Bank Account
Opening a bank account is an important step during your soft landing in Canada. Most banks offer special newcomer packages that include free banking for the first year and access to credit cards. Visit a local bank branch with your COPR, passport, and proof of address to open an account. Having a Canadian bank account will make it easier to manage your finances and transfer money from your home country if needed.
Obtain Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
You will need your Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work in Canada, access government programs, and pay taxes. You can obtain your SIN at a Service Canada office during your soft landing in Canada. The process is simple and you will get your SIN the same day.
Access Settlement Services
Canada offers numerous settlement services to help newcomers adjust to their new environment. During your soft landing, take advantage of these free services to learn about housing, healthcare, and job opportunities. Many organizations also provide language training and career counseling, which can be beneficial for your long-term success in Canada.
Pack Smartly for Your Trip
Plan ahead for your soft landing in Canada. The duration of your visit may be short, and so you pack only the most important things that will be helpful during your visit. For example, pack clothes appropriate for the season, personal documents, and all your medications. You may leave the other non-essential items there since you might not be migrating permanently immediately.
Understand How PR Card Processing Works
After your soft landing in Canada, your PR card will be mailed to the address you provided during the immigration process. PR card processing usually takes a few weeks, so ensure that someone is available to receive it if you are leaving Canada temporarily. Otherwise, you can arrange for it to be sent to you abroad through a trusted courier service.
A successful soft landing in Canada is the ultimate step for immigration. Once you understand the process, prepare your documents, and make wise decisions, you’re good to go. And please remember that it’s not only about validation of COPR; this is the opportunity to familiarize yourself with your new home and make the first step toward a life of success in Canada. With proper preparation and a solid plan, your way into becoming a permanent resident will be great. Safe travels and welcome to Canada!
