If you’re entering Canada for the first time as an international student or temporary foreign worker, knowing what happens at the border can help make your journey smooth and stress-free.
From keeping your essential documents handy to avoiding common pitfalls, this guide will help you confidently navigate your first arrival in Canada.
Today, we will discuss what to expect at the border when you arrive in Canada on a permit.
So, without further ado, let us begin!
Keep Your Essential Documents With You
When you arrive in Canada, there are a few key documents that international students and temporary foreign workers must have readily available:
- Passport (or other valid travel document)
- Proof of funds
- A valid visa or eTA
- Letter of introduction (Port of Entry letter)
Note that the U.S. citizens, green card holders, and French citizens residing in St. Pierre and Miquelon are exempt from visa and eTA requirements. They only need to show proof of citizenship or permanent resident status.
U.S. citizens and green card holders also don’t need a letter of introduction and can apply for their study permit directly at the port of entry.
In addition to these documents, some travellers will need extra paperwork depending on whether they’re entering on a study or work permit:
| Permit Type | Additional Documents Required |
| Study permit | Copy of Letter of AcceptanceValid immigration medical results (if needed) |
| Work permit | Proof you meet the requirements of the job (e.g., work experience, education)Copy of employer’s positive LMIA (and CAQ if working in Quebec)Offer of employment number (if LMIA-exempt and coming to work for a specific employer) |
Tip: Keep all original documents and copies in your carry-on, not in checked luggage. Also, have your Canadian address (temporary or permanent), emergency contact numbers, and either Canadian dollars or a major credit card for immediate expenses.
Getting Your Study Or Work Permit At The Airport
In order to know what to expect at the border when you arrive in Canada, it is vital to note that you have to get your study or work permit at the airport.
After your flight lands, you’ll go through a border interview with a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer. This happens at the first port of entry even if you have a connecting flight to another Canadian city.
You’ll be directed to line up for immigration and customs. At the counter, the CBSA officer will:
- Verify your documents
- Ask a few questions to confirm your purpose of entry
- Ensure that you meet Canada’s entry requirements
One of their key responsibilities is to confirm your temporary resident intent. This means showing that you understand and will respect the conditions of your permit and that you’ll leave Canada when your authorized stay ends.
Moreover, if the officer is not convinced that your intent is genuine, they can refuse to issue your study or work permit.
Also, always answer questions truthfully. Providing false information is considered misrepresentation, which can lead to a five-year ban from entering Canada.
If your interview goes smoothly and the officer is satisfied, they will issue your study or work permit on the spot. Before leaving the counter, review the document carefully to ensure there are no errors, especially details like:
- Your name
- Expiry date of the permit
- Institution or employer name
- Work or study restrictions (if any)
Note: Many students aim to transition from study permits to a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and eventually apply for permanent residence. IRCC recognizes dual intent, i.e., you can plan to stay temporarily while also intending to apply for PR later.
Important Tip For Connecting Flights
If your arrival city isn’t your final destination, make sure to leave enough time during your layover to complete the immigration process and get your permit. Your first Canadian airport is where the permit will be issued, not your final stop.
Arriving Through A Land Border
The same border procedures apply if you’re entering Canada by land.
If you’re driving your own vehicle, you’ll typically be directed to park and enter a nearby building for an interview with a CBSA officer.
Here too, your documents will be reviewed, and you’ll answer questions to confirm your eligibility to enter Canada as a student or worker.
Avoid These Common Mistakes At The Border
In order to know what to expect at the border when you arrive in Canada, it is important to avoid certain mistakes. Take a look!
1. Not Declaring Cash Over $10,000
If you’re carrying 10,000 CAD or more, you must declare it to the CBSA.
This includes not just cash, but also other financial instruments such as:
- Bank drafts
- Cheques
- Traveller’s cheques
- Money orders
- Bearer’s bonds
You can bring any amount of money into Canada legally. However, failing to declare funds of 10,000 CAD or more can result in seizure of your money.
2. Bringing Excess Prescription Medication
Canada has restrictions on how much prescription medication you can bring in for personal use.
Generally, you’re allowed to bring up to a 90-day supply of prescription drugs for your own use.
If you’re travelling with prescription medication:
- Keep it in its original labelled packaging
- Carry a copy of your prescription or a note from your doctor
- Be prepared to explain its use to the CBSA officer
3. Not Declaring Controlled Substances
Some medications fall under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
If you’re bringing any controlled medication, you must declare it at the border, even if you’re not specifically asked.
You’ll need to:
- Have a valid prescription in your name
- Carry the medication in its original pharmacy or hospital packaging
- Bring only a personal supply – either a single course of treatment or a 30-day supply, whichever is less.
Common controlled medications include opiates and stimulants.
Since there are hundreds of controlled substances, check your medication against Canada’s Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
For example, Adderall contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, both controlled substances.
4. Not Knowing Which Items Are Prohibited Or Must Be Declared
Certain products must be declared at the border:
- Food, plants, and animals
- Alcohol, tobacco, and vaping products
- Firearms and weapons
Some items are strictly prohibited, including:
- Cannabis or cannabis-containing products
- Illegal drugs
- Prohibited firearms or weapons
- Sick animals
- Endangered species or their parts
- Any package with unknown contents
Declaring these items properly can save you from serious penalties or refusal of entry.
Getting A Social Insurance Number (SIN)
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number required for work, tax purposes, and accessing government benefits.
International students who plan to work in Canada also need a SIN.
Many major Canadian airports have Service Canada centers where new arrivals can apply for a SIN on the spot.
These include:
- Toronto Pearson International Airport
- Montréal Trudeau International Airport
- Vancouver International Airport
- Halifax Stanfield International Airport
- Calgary International Airport
- Edmonton International Airport
Depending on your arrival time, the Service Canada center at the airport may not be open.
If that’s the case, you can apply:
- Online through the Service Canada website
- Or visit any local Service Canada center after landing
Final Thoughts
Arriving in Canada as an international student or temporary foreign worker is a big step and being well-prepared can make all the difference.
Having the right documents ready, understanding the border interview process, and knowing what to declare will help ensure your entry goes smoothly.
Don’t forget to review your study or work permit carefully after it’s issued and get your SIN as soon as possible. With everything in place, you’ll be ready to start your journey in Canada with confidence.
Explore your pathway to move to Canada with Immigtoronto. Our team of skilled RCICs offers customized immigration solutions, ensuring a trustworthy and professional process. Contact us at [email protected].
