Preparing to Move

So you can focus on just preparing for the first day of school and make settling into Canada as stress-free as possible, most preparation can actually be done even before you leave home. Here is a checklist of some matters you can already address from here.

Opening a Bank Account

Financially prepare yourself when you arrive in as an International Student in Canada. The Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) Program in Canada provides international students with options that would help you to invest your money smartly for a worry-free stay in Canada. This is also where you will deposit your funds and access them in Canada. Compare banks to find one with the most convenient locations, best rates or services.

Manage Personal Finances Online
After the big move to Canada, keep track of your finances through a free online resource called the Rate Hub. Canada’s leading financial comparison platform, they help users make smarter financial decisions by providing the best tools, advice, and rates in the market. They have a comprehensive comparison service which includes mortgage, auto & home insurance quoting, credit card comparison, GIC & checking account applications, investing and other finance related matters.

https://www.ratehub.ca/

Finding Accommodations

There are various options available to international students depending on budget, location and other personal preferences.

In-Campus Housing
Live with the campus which comes with an option to include meals.

Off-Campus Housing
If having your own place would provide you with more flexibility, check out available listings in these popular sites for rentals.

Homestay
Experience true home life in Canada by staying with a family. There are independent private service providers who assist students in finding suitable homestays in the community. These homestay service providers charge a fee for their services. It is recommended that students ensure all application fees, monthly homestay fees, utility, internet, electricity and other costs are clearly understood before making any commitments, paying any fees or signing any contracts.

https://canadahomestaynetwork.ca/for-students/
http://www.homestayin.com/Canada

Landing Pad
Landing pad is a temporary or transient accommodation such as a hotel, motel, bed and breakfast or boarding house. It is designed to provide International Students safe accommodations for a few days upon arrival in Canada, while they are settling in.

https://www.airbnb.com/
https://international.niagaracollege.ca/student-services/housing-options/landing-pad/

Travel Insurance

Being an International Student, much like anyone who travels abroad, would require peace-of-mind. Therefore, preparing for your trips should be carefully and meticulously planned. Likewise, learn more about the security and insurance options available to you to guarantee that your trip and stay in Canada be as hassle-free as possible.

Telecom Services

Apply for a new mobile subscription even before you leave so you can access services when you arrive at the airport. Canada has the most efficient and convenient internet, online, and telecommunication services in the world. Check out which would be the best provider to match your needs during your exciting period of study, live and work in Canada.

International Student Identification Card

Students can avail of special travel-related discounts for trains, hotels, airlines, restaurants and other travel-related services and establishments.
https://isiccanada.ca/

International Driving Permit

An efficient public transport system allows for ease in getting around Canada. For increased mobility, an international student may also opt to apply for an international driving permit if a car will be part of your necessities while living in Canada.

To apply for a Philippine International Driving Permit (PIDP), visit the AAP (Automobile Association Philippines) office near you and bring the following requirements:

1. Original and photocopy of Philippine Driver’s License valid for at least one (1) year.

2. Two (2) pieces latest 2×2 colored ID photo with white background.

3. Foreign nationals, dual citizens and Filipino citizens born in other countries present the original passport plus photocopies of pages showing identification and date of last arrival. If you are a permanent resident, present your passport and/or Alien Certificate Registration along with requirements no. 1 and 2.

4. PHP 1,800 broken down as follows:

PHP 300 – AAP Joining Fee*
PHP 1,200 – AAP Annual Registration
PHP 300 – PIDP Processing Fee

VALIDITY:

If your Philippine driver’s license is valid for more than one year, the PIDP will be valid for one year from the date of issue. If your Philippine driver’s license is valid for less than one year, the PIDP will follow the validity of your Philippine driver’s license.

So, if your license will expire in six months, your PIDP will also expire in six months.

If your PIDP expires while you were still abroad, you can renew your PIDP online by visiting the AAP Website as long as the card type Philippine license that was presented before has not expired yet.

If a temporary license was presented, the photocopy of the temporary license together with the original LTO Certification and Official Receipt should also be presented.

Reference: https://ltoexam.com/international-license-requirements/