Before You Arrive Checklist

English is the primary language and French is the secondary language used in Nova Scotia. Find out if your English or French language skills are ready for living and working here, or if you should start taking classes before you arrive. After you arrive, there are lots of different English or French as an additional language training programs offered in Nova Scotia.

If you or a family member don’t already have a job before leaving, you should do some research on jobs in your industry and find out what credentials you might need. It’s a good idea to get started on your job hunting too. Nova Scotia has lots of resources for career information and job postings.

It is a good idea to open a bank account before arriving in Nova Scotia so you will have some money when you get here. It is not safe to carry a lot of cash with you, so a bank account is highly recommended. Having a bank account will also make it easier for you to receive payment from employers. View a list of banking programs offered for newcomers.

There are lots of different types of living arrangements for you to choose from in Nova Scotia. You may be renting an apartment or plan on buying a house, but in most situations you will probably need a place to stay immediately after you arrive. It is great if you have friends or family that you can stay with. There are also lots of affordable hotels, motels, inns, and bed and breakfasts located close to the airport, in Halifax, and throughout Nova Scotia. Learn more about the different regions in Nova Scotia.

• A Canadian immigrant visa (if applicable) and Confirmation of Permanent Residence for each family member traveling with you
• Valid passport for every family member arriving with you
• Birth certificates
• Marriage certificate
• Academic credentials
• Resume (Curriculum Vitae/CV)
• Job references
• Credit references
• A valid driver’s licence and a Driving Experience Letter from your home country (if applicable)
• Vehicle Insurance Document – if you are bringing your vehicle with you
• Medical and dental records
• Two copies of a detailed list of all the personal or household items you are bringing with you
• Two copies of a list of items that are arriving later and their money value

NOTE: Make sure all of your documents are originals. You should also have photocopies in case you lose your originals. Keep the photocopies in a separate place. If your documents are not in English or French, you will need to bring certified translated copies with you as well. Translation services are also offered through the Immigration Services Association of Nova Scotia.

For more information on what documents to bring with you to Canada, visit the IRCC website.