Find the interactive checklist at movingtovancouver.ca/moving-to-vancouver-checklist
This Moving to BC Checklist covers everything—from visas to finding an apartment in Vancouver. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth move. This list was super helpful for my move, so sharing it with the world.
Before Moving to BC Checklist
Get everything ready for your visa application
Start saving
Renew your passport (if necessary)
If you have pets, contact the airport and prepare for their travels
Book your flight
Find a temporary stay in Vancouver
What to do 1 month before moving to BC
Get rid of things you don’t need
Pack
Cancel internet
Cancel accounts
Get extended medications for the first 3-6 months
Inform your landlord you are moving out in writing
Print off all your documents
Write + get recommendation letter from your landlord
What to 2 weeks before moving to BC
Get travel health insurance in case you need medical care in the first 3 months - 2 years
Start creating your “Tenant Resume”
Start search for apartment to arrange viewings
Get a letter from your car insurance to get an ICBC (local car insurance) discount
Bring driver records from NDLS so you can get car sharing subscriptions
Buy the right power adapters
What to do on your 1st day in BC
Order a Lyft from the airport
Register for MSP
Get phone plan
Settling into life in BC after your arrival
Look for a job
Set up bank account
Visit apartments
Transfer money from your current bank, to your Canadian bank account
Transfer stocks/other
Steps for after getting an apartment in BC
Get tenants insurance
Set up utilities in new apartment
Purchase necessary furniture and appliances
Update address for all subscriptions and memberships
Set up internet services
Register at local municipality/city hall
Trade in your driver’s license
Buy some groceries
3 Months after moving to BC
(After you have MSP)
Find new Psychiatrist