Your first 10 steps upon arriving in Quebec

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

1. Get 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 you need to work, receive a salary, pay your taxes and access 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, boul. Marcel-Laurin.

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 ID (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 the packages and ask which fees apply once the promotional period ends.

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

3. Register with RAMQ (health insurance)

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

Important: There is a 3-month waiting period for most permanent residents before your coverage becomes active. During this period, take out temporary private insurance to avoid unpleasant surprises. Exception: if you are coming from France, Belgium, Denmark, Sweden, Greece, Finland, Norway, Luxembourg or Portugal, social security agreements allow you to be covered as soon as you arrive — submit form SE-401-Q-207 to RAMQ.

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

4. Find housing

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

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

Watch out for scams: Never send money before visiting a place in person. A landlord cannot legally require a security deposit in Quebec (except for keys), even though some still ask for one in practice.

5. Get a Canadian phone number

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

6. Sign up for French classes

The Government of Quebec offers free francisation classes with a participation allowance for eligible people. It's a valuable investment in your professional and social integration. CARI also offers classes adapted to all levels, with flexible schedules including evening classes.

Even if you already speak French, a francisation course can help you understand Quebec expressions and local workplace norms.

7. Register your children for 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 (classes d'accueil) are available for children who don't speak French — they learn the language while gradually being integrated into the regular school system.

For younger children, sign up on the waiting list for a subsidized daycare spot through the single-window service La Place 0-5.

8. Get your Quebec driver's licence

The Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) is the body that issues licences. Your original licence allows you to drive for 90 days after your arrival. Depending on your country of origin, you may be able to exchange your licence directly (around $85) or have to take written and road tests. Check with the SAAQ early about agreements with your country, since appointments can take a long time to get.

9. File your tax return

Even if you arrived partway through the year and haven't worked in Canada, you must file a tax return. It's important for accessing tax credits and family benefits (Canada Child Benefit, Quebec Family Allowance). CARI offers a tax help service during tax season.

10. Sign up at CARI

Our team supports you free of charge with all of 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 very first week — the sooner you start, the faster your integration will be.