Newcomer to Canada talking to Canadian woman immigration officer

20 Canadians Share One Thing They Wish They Knew Before Moving to Canada (2026)

The most common advice from Canadians who moved here is simple: prepare for everyday life—not just your immigration process.
Research the city where you’ll live, understand the true cost of living, bring important documents, build a realistic budget, learn how banking and healthcare work, and give yourself time to adjust. Small preparations before you arrive can make a big difference during your first year in Canada.