What to Do After Receiving Your Canada Student Visa
Receiving your visa is just the beginning. There is a set of critical steps and documents you must prepare before you can legally and safely travel to Canada as a student.
1. Verify Your Visa Details Immediately
Check your name, date of birth, visa validity dates, visa type, conditions (e.g., part-time work hours allowed), and permitted entry type. Report errors to the embassy within 48 hours.
2. Confirm Your University Enrolment
Notify your university that your visa has been approved and confirm your enrolment. Pay any outstanding tuition deposit and obtain your student ID or enrolment confirmation letter.
3. Book Flights
Only book flights after visa confirmation. Book early for best fares. Choose flights that arrive at least 5–7 days before your course start date to allow settling time.
4. Confirm Accommodation
If not already done, confirm your accommodation booking — university dormitory, private rental, or homestay. Ensure you have the full address and contact details for arrival.
5. Arrange Foreign Exchange & Banking
Carry sufficient CAD cash for first 2–4 weeks. Open a student bank account in Canada upon arrival. Inform your Indian bank of foreign travel to avoid card blocks.
6. Purchase Comprehensive Travel Insurance
If not already done, purchase travel and health insurance valid for your full study duration in Canada. Keep a digital and printed copy of your policy.
7. Register with the Canada University & Local Authorities
Upon arrival, many countries require student registration with local police or immigration authorities within 7–30 days. Your university's international office will guide you through this.
Documents to Carry When Travelling to Canada
| Document | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport with Visa | Original | Keep in carry-on bag; never checked baggage |
| University Offer / Enrolment Letter | Original + Photocopy | Show at immigration if asked |
| Travel Insurance Certificate | Print + Digital | Emergency contact numbers highlighted |
| Flight Tickets (both legs) | Print + Digital | Return ticket may be asked at immigration |
| Accommodation Confirmation | Print + Digital | Address for arrival card / landing card |
| Proof of Funds (CAD cash / forex card) | Physical | Some countries check funds at port of entry |
| Academic Documents Folder | Certified copies | 10th, 12th, degree, IELTS/TOEFL scores |
| Passport-Size Photographs (×10) | Physical | Required for bank account, ID card, registration |
| Emergency Contact Card | University contact, Indian embassy in Canada, parents | |
| Indian Embassy / High Commission Contact | Print + Saved in phone | For emergencies in Canada |
Pre-Departure Briefing — Free Service
Palo Santo Consulting offers a free pre-departure orientation for all students travelling to Canada. We walk you through exactly what to carry, what to expect at immigration, and your first week in Canada.
Book Pre-Departure Session →