Newcomers consistently report the first 30 days as "overwhelming." This checklist is the antidote. Check off as you go — your progress saves automatically (in your browser).
SIN comes FIRST. Everything else needs it. Service Canada open 8am-4pm.
Most banks waive the $4-15 monthly fee for newcomers for 6-12 months. Ask explicitly.
Secured credit card with $500 deposit starts your Canadian credit file. Apply Week 1.
Use the secured card for ONE small purchase ($5-10). Pay it off. Build the pattern.
Your first credit score appears around day 30-45 after first reported activity.
By day 30 you should have: SIN, bank account, credit card with activity, address proof, health card.
You need private insurance for the first 3 months. Cost: $80-200/mo. Without it, an ER visit = $1k+.
Coverage from arrival day (after application + ID confirmation). Apply within 30 days.