Amina Hassan
Morocco → Toronto, Canada
Arriving March 15, 2026
Document Checklist
Permanent Resident Card
Received at the airport on landing
Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Applied at Service Canada, received in 2 weeks
Ontario Health Card (OHIP)
3-month waiting period, applied on arrival
Canadian Bank Account
TD Newcomer account, opened with passport + PR card
Driver's License
Can exchange Moroccan license — need to book a test
Canadian Credit Card
Applied for secured credit card at TD
Tax Filing (CRA Account)
Set up CRA My Account after receiving SIN
Essential Services
🏦Banking
No credit history needed
🏥Healthcare
3-month waiting period from landing date
🚌Transport
Get a PRESTO card for transit
📱Phone
Good newcomer plans, no credit check
🏛️Government
SIN application and employment services
🏠Housing
Apartment and furniture listings
Community Resources
Free settlement counselling and job search help
Free English/French classes for PRs
Moroccan Community of Toronto
Facebook group
Great for finding halal restaurants and community events
Active community with helpful advice
Personal Notes
Remember to file taxes even for partial year of residence Get a library card — Toronto Public Library is amazing Winter jacket is the first purchase!
💡 Tips for Others
Open your bank account on day one — you need it for everything else Apply for OHIP immediately even though there is a waiting period Get a PRESTO card for transit before you explore the city
