How to deal with stress when preparing to move to Canada

Moving to Canada can be extremely exciting, but it can also be stressful and uncertain if you are a newcomer.

Although preparing to immigrate to Canada is a period of excitement in your newbie experience, it can also be a stressful and uncertain time. Moving details need to be settled, friends and family must say goodbye, and there is a lot to prepare for both practically and emotionally. Leaving your home country can be difficult. The usual unpredictability that comes with moving to a foreign country can still arise regardless of how far in advance your plan is.

As you prepare for your move, you’ll probably have to juggle a lot of duties, such as packing your stuff, getting rid of things you won’t be taking with you, assembling important documents, and watching out for COVID-19 restrictions.

Even when you are preparing to relocate to Canada, you may feel overwhelmed at times, but you can manage stress with tried-and-true techniques.

Patience is key

Several Express Entry draw programs have been delayed because of COVID-19-related travel restrictions. It was only possible to obtain an ITA for CEC and PNP (Provincial Nominee Program) candidates. Permanent residency applications for many new immigrants are taking too long to be approved by the IRCC. IRCC has already begun the process of clearing the backlog, and processing times will soon shorten. Don’t worry if you are concerned about the completion of your application. Due to Canada’s immigration goals, delays do not guarantee that your application will not be processed.

If you have already responded to IRCC’s Invitation to Apply, wait for the response before making any irrevocable decisions, such as quitting your job, moving, or purchasing your plane tickets.
Moving to a new country requires preparation on all fronts. Take advantage of the extra time when your application is delayed to prepare for the move.
You are not required to relocate right away after receiving your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR) from IRCC. Plan your travel for the time that would work best for you, and confirm that the visa you have been granted is still valid. Do not rush the moving process.

Make a checklist for pre-arrival

Doing proper planning can reduce moving stress and worries about forgetting something.

Plan ahead before moving to find temporary housing in Canada, sell your furniture and car, collect documentation from your doctor, pack and move your stuff, and purchase airline tickets.
Checking the weather in your destination before you begin packing is a smart idea. If you’re moving to a cold climate during the winter, bring warm clothes. Be prepared to buy winter clothing in Canada if you’re relocating from a warm country.
To prevent being caught off guard, prepare ahead of time by identifying the tasks you must perform in your first 100 days after arriving in Canada.

Before moving to Canada, start looking for a job

Finding a job in Canada can take time. If you prepare yourself for your job search before you arrive, you will have a head start on the process. Getting started early will allow you to select a province and city that has a high demand for your skills. Furthermore, you will be able to determine what kind of jobs and wages you can expect in Canada, as well as determine the breadth of your position.

Your initial step should be to select a smaller group of Canadian companies with whom you are interested in collaborating.
Prepare a CV and cover letter in Canadian format.
Organize your network before you arrive. Before approaching Canadian experts in your area, you should enhance your LinkedIn profile. It is even better if you ask your contacts for assistance by setting up an online coffee meeting so that they are able to share their knowledge with you.

Set up a budget for your first six months in Canada

Immigrants are often concerned about their finances during their preparations for immigration. Your initial few months may require you to draw from your savings due to the high cost of living in Canadian cities. If you make some preparations, you will have a decent chance of success in Canada.

If you do not find employment right away, be ready to pay your bills for the first three to six months.
Consider taking on a temporary job while you search for a permanent job if you’re concerned you won’t make it. The term “survival job” refers to a temporary position that has little to do with your professional field. Find freelance jobs if you’d like to earn extra money.

Uncertainties and unresolved questions you may have about relocating to Canada might contribute to migration stress. The good news is that there are a few companies that can answer your questions and allay your concerns prior to arrival.

Plan for Canada or ACCES Employment is two recognized organizations that offer government-funded settlement programs. Free settlement organizations usually require COPR before you can register.
In addition to career counseling and relocation assistance, these organizations provide insight on navigating the first few months in Canada.
Additionally, some organizations offer one-on-one job counseling, including assistance with drafting a Canadian CV and preparing for interviews.

Speak with Canadian friends and family members

There is a good chance that someone else has already journeyed down this path, regardless of how difficult it may seem. Make touch with friends and family who already reside in Canada if you are getting ready to relocate here.

You can learn how to avoid common rookie errors by asking them about their experiences coming to Canada.
Establish a support network that you can call on in an emergency. Maintain a list of the vital phone numbers and addresses of the Canadians you know, together with your key documents.

Identify what excites you

By concentrating on your move’s benefits, you can reduce your stress during the move. Your dream of settling in Canada is close to becoming a reality, so you shouldn’t worry about any tension or anxiety.

Identify the sights and activities you would like to experience in Canada. What was the first time it snowed? How about a trip to the CN Tower? Canada has so many things to offer that you’ll forget most of your concerns once you arrive.
Keeping yourself interested requires reading about Canadian culture.

Stop preparing and relax

Moving to a new country can be quite stressful to plan. Taking time out of your schedule to relax and sleep is essential.

Spend some time before the move with your family and friends. Virtual communication is fantastic, but nothing compares to face-to-face interaction.

Make sure to exercise and consume wholesome foods. When you have a lot to get done in a limited amount of time, it is simple to neglect the necessities.

Conclusion

Moving to Canada can be difficult and draining, especially if there are numerous duties that need to be finished. To help you overcome the uncertainties associated with moving to a new country, here are some pointers you may find helpful.