Your First 10 Steps Upon Arrival in Quebec

Congratulations on your arrival in Quebec! The first few weeks can feel overwhelming with all the steps to complete. This guide presents the 10 essential steps in the order you should accomplish them, to avoid roadblocks and save time.

1. Obtain your Social Insurance Number (SIN)

This is the very first thing to do, ideally within days of your arrival. The SIN is a confidential nine-digit number essential for working, receiving a salary, paying your taxes, and accessing government benefits.

Visit a Service Canada office with your passport and your confirmation of permanent residence (or work permit). The process is free and you receive your number quickly. Keep it safe and only share it with public authorities, your employer, and your bank.

Closest office to Saint-Laurent: Service Canada (1350 Marcel-Laurin Blvd.).

2. Open a bank account

You'll need a bank account to receive your salary, pay your rent, and manage your day-to-day finances. Book an appointment at a branch as soon as you arrive.

Bring your identification documents (passport, confirmation of permanent residence) and your SIN. Several banks offer special packages for newcomers, often free for the first year: Desjardins, Banque Nationale, RBC, TD, and BMO are the most common. Compare packages and ask what fees apply after the promotional period.

Tip: Also request a credit card. Using it regularly and paying it off on time is the best way to build your credit history in Canada—this file is essential for getting housing or a loan later.

3. Register with the RAMQ (health insurance)

The Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) gives you access to the public healthcare system. Each member of your family must have their own card. You can apply online on the RAMQ website or visit an office in person.

Important: There is a 3-month waiting period for most permanent residents before your coverage becomes active. During this period, get temporary private insurance to avoid unpleasant surprises. Exception: if you're from one of the countries with a social security agreement with Quebec (Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, or Sweden), you may be covered from your arrival, without the waiting period. The form or certificate to provide depends on your country of origin (for example, the SE-401-Q-207 for France). Check with your social security agency before departure and with the RAMQ upon arrival.

Register for prescription drug insurance at the same time as your health insurance card application.

4. Find housing

If you don't have permanent housing yet, start with temporary accommodation (Airbnb, hostel, sublet) while you visit apartments. Check Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, newcomer groups, and Centris for listings.

The standard lease in Quebec is 12 months. Before signing, read it carefully—once signed, you cannot cancel it except in exceptional circumstances. Your rights as a tenant are protected by the Tribunal administratif du logement.

Beware of scams: Never send money before visiting the housing in person. A landlord cannot legally require a security deposit in Quebec (except for keys), even though some ask for it in practice.

5. Get a Canadian phone number

A local number is essential for your paperwork, job search, and daily life. The main providers (Fizz, Koodo, Public Mobile, Vidéotron, Bell, Telus) offer various plans. Virtual providers like Fizz and Public Mobile are often the cheapest to start with.

6. Register for French classes

The Quebec government offers free francization classes with a participation allowance for eligible individuals. This is a valuable investment for your professional and social integration. CARI also offers classes suited to all levels, with flexible schedules including evening classes.

Even if you already speak French, a francization course can help you understand Quebec expressions and local professional standards.

7. Enroll your children in school

Education is free and mandatory in Quebec for children aged 6 to 16. Contact the Centre de services scolaire Marguerite-Bourgeoys (CSSMB) for the Saint-Laurent area. Welcome classes are available for children who don't speak French—they learn the language while gradually integrating into the regular school system.

For young children, register on the waiting list for a subsidized daycare spot through the one-stop service La Place 0-5.

8. Obtain your Quebec driver's license

The Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) is the organization that issues licenses. Your original license allows you to drive for a limited period after your arrival (check the exact timeframe on the SAAQ website). Depending on your country of origin, you may be able to exchange your license directly or may need to take exams. Fees apply; check the current amount on the SAAQ website. Inquire quickly, as appointments can take a long time to get.

9. File your income tax return

Even if you arrived mid-year and haven't worked in Canada, you must file an income tax return. This is important for accessing tax credits and family benefits (Canada Child Benefit, Allocation famille du Québec). CARI offers a tax assistance service during tax season.

10. Register with CARI

Our team supports you free of charge with all these steps and much more. Whether you need help filling out a form, understanding a letter from the government, or planning your next steps, a CARI advisor is here for you. Book an appointment in your first week—the earlier you start, the faster your integration will be.