Arriving in Canada for the first time? Whether you are coming to Canada as a new permanent resident, international student, temporary foreign worker or accompanying family member, understanding what happens at the airport can make your arrival much smoother.
Important: Airport procedures can vary depending on your immigration status, airport, travel documents and individual circumstances. Always check the latest requirements with the Government of Canada before travelling.
What Documents Should You Carry When Arriving in Canada?
Keep your essential immigration and travel documents in your carry-on baggage, not in your checked luggage.
- Valid passport or travel document
- Canadian permanent resident visa, if applicable
- Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), if applicable
- Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction, for eligible study or work permit applicants
- Valid temporary resident visa (TRV) or eTA, if required
- Letter of Acceptance for international students
- Proof of financial support, where applicable
- Employment or job-related documents, where applicable
- Canadian accommodation or residential address
- Documents for accompanying family members
- Goods-to-follow information, if applicable
- Other documents requested by IRCC
What Happens When You Arrive at a Canadian Airport?
- Follow the Signs for Border Processing: After leaving the aircraft, follow airport signs directing you toward border services, immigration and customs.
- Complete Your Declaration: Use a Primary Inspection Kiosk (PIK), eGate or Advance CBSA Declaration via ArriveCAN.
- Meet a CBSA Officer: Officers may ask questions about your reason for coming, immigration status, destination, address, studies, employment, travel history, family members and goods you are bringing.
Advance CBSA Declaration: What Newcomers Should Know
Through ArriveCAN, travellers can submit their customs and immigration declaration up to 72 hours before arriving in Canada. It is optional and does not replace immigration documents or CBSA examination.
Arriving in Canada as a New Permanent Resident
Carry your passport, COPR and permanent resident visa, if issued. A CBSA officer will verify your documents. Your first PR card is normally mailed to you after you provide IRCC with your Canadian mailing address and photo within 180 days.
Arriving in Canada as an International Student
Carry your passport, POE Letter of Introduction, Letter of Acceptance, TRV/eTA if required, proof of financial support and accommodation details. The POE Letter is not your study permit; the officer issues the permit at the port of entry.
Arriving in Canada as a Temporary Foreign Worker
Carry your passport, POE Letter of Introduction, employment documents, job offer, LMIA if applicable, and proof of qualifications. The final decision on entry and work permit issuance is made at the port of entry.
What Should You Declare at the Canadian Border?
- Food
- Plants and plant products
- Animals and animal products
- Agricultural products
- Currency above thresholds
- Firearms and weapons
- Other restricted goods
Bringing Personal Belongings to Canada
New permanent residents may arrive with belongings and ship additional goods later. Understand goods-to-follow requirements and retain documentation for household goods, furniture, vehicles and personal effects.
Collecting Your Baggage
Follow airport signs to baggage claim. If baggage is missing or damaged, contact your airline’s baggage service desk before leaving the airport.
Leaving the Canadian Airport
- Public transit
- Airport trains
- Taxi
- Ride-hailing services
- Rental cars
- Private transfers
- Pickup by family or friends
What Should Newcomers Do After Arriving in Canada?
- Get a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Arrange health coverage
- Open a Canadian bank account
- Arrange long-term accommodation
- Get a Canadian phone number
- Register children for school
- Explore settlement services
Canada Airport Arrival Checklist for Newcomers
- Valid passport or travel document
- Visa/eTA, if applicable
- COPR and PR visa, if applicable
- POE Letter of Introduction, if applicable
- Letter of Acceptance for international students
- Work-related documents, if applicable
- Proof of funds, where required
- Canadian address/accommodation details
- Important contact numbers
- Customs requirements reviewed
- Goods-to-follow information, if applicable
- Advance CBSA Declaration completed (optional)
- Airport transportation arranged
- Essential medication and personal items in carry-on
- Important immigration documents stored securely
Common Questions About Arriving in Canada
What happens when I land in Canada?
You will proceed through border processing, complete your declaration, undergo CBSA examination, collect baggage and exit the airport.
Do I need ArriveCAN to enter Canada?
No. The Advance CBSA Declaration is optional.
How early can I complete the Advance CBSA Declaration?
Up to 72 hours before arrival.
Is the POE Letter my study permit?
No. It must be presented to a border officer to receive the study permit.
Is a work permit approval letter enough to guarantee entry?
No. The final decision is made at the port of entry.
When will I receive my first PR card?
Normally mailed after providing your Canadian address and photo.
What if I am unsure whether I need to declare an item?
Declare it or ask a CBSA officer.
Final Tips for a Smooth Arrival in Canada
- Keep essential documents in carry-on
- Review immigration documents carefully
- Check latest Government of Canada requirements
- Consider completing Advance CBSA Declaration
- Keep Canadian address and contact details accessible
- Arrange airport transportation in advance
- Keep essential medication with you
- Declare goods honestly
- Ask CBSA if unsure
Ready for Your New Life in Canada?
Arriving at a Canadian airport is an important milestone in your immigration journey. Preparing your documents and understanding the airport process can help you start your Canadian journey with confidence.
This article provides general information and is not a substitute for individualized immigration or legal advice. Immigration requirements and border procedures may change. Always verify the latest requirements with the Government of Canada before travelling.
