Social Insurance Number (SIN) Card. Canada is known for having one of the most comprehensive social welfare systems in the world, which is one of the reasons immigrants are fond of the country. From the moment you become a permanent resident of Canada, you are eligible to enjoy the various benefits provided by the Canadian government. Therefore, activating your immigrant visa and applying for a PR card (Maple Leaf Card) should be your top priority. The PR card is processed at the customs service counter when you first land in Canada to activate your immigrant visa. The application requirements are very simple; you only need to verify your passport and Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document to complete the application. After a few weeks, the PR card will be mailed to the cardholder. The second item you need to apply for is a Social Insurance Number (SIN), which is equivalent to a national identification number in China. This number serves as your personal identification code for future employment, tax filing, and accessing various government services. It is also required when applying for bank accounts, telephone numbers, and many other services. You can submit an application for a SIN at an employment center or relevant department in your city. Once you have received your Social Insurance Number, there is no need to re-apply when moving or re-entering the country.
Bank Cards. Regarding opening a bank account, most people choose to open one at a bank near their place of residence. Royal Bank (RBC), Bank of Montreal (BMO), TD Bank, and CIBC (Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce) are among Canada's largest banks. Scotiabank and HSBC also have numerous local branches and are trustworthy institutions. It is recommended that new immigrants apply for a credit card from the bank. Because Canada is a credit-based society, purchasing a car or house, starting a business, or even setting up a mobile phone service requires a review of the buyer's personal credit history. The simplest way to establish a personal credit history is by using a credit card and maintaining a good repayment record.
Driver's License. Canada has a strict driver's licensing system; different types of vehicles require corresponding licenses, and regulations may vary slightly between different provinces and territories. Taking British Columbia (BC) as an example, if a new immigrant holds a Chinese driver's license, they are permitted to drive in BC for 90 days. In BC, passenger vehicle driver's licenses are divided into Class 5 (full license) and Class 7 (learner's license); the examination process requires passing both a written test and a road test. If a new immigrant has held a driver's license in China for over two years, they can take the test directly for a Class 5 (full) license. Those who have held a license for less than two years or do not possess a driver's license must first pass a written test to obtain a “Learner's License” and wait one year before they can take the Class 7 road test. Two years after obtaining a Class 7 license, one can then test for a Class 5 license. Both Class 5 and Class 7 licenses allow one to operate a passenger vehicle independently.
