Steps to take before you leave for Canada

Gather documents to cross the border

If you wish to enter Canada, there are documents you must have in order to cross the border. Without these documents, you will not be allowed into Canada. See list at Citizenship and Immigration Canada: Prepare your documents.

What you can bring into Canada

When you move to Canada from another country you may bring your personal and household goods without paying duty. But you will have to pay duty on any item you bring that has not been used. There are some items, such as guns and certain foods, that you cannot bring into Canada. Learn more at Citizenship and Immigration Canada: What you can bring.

Find a temporary place to stay

Manitoba has many hotels and motels you where can stay after arriving. If you are not staying with friends or family you should make arrangements in advance. Search for accommodations and rates at Travel Manitoba.

Get Canadian money

It is a good idea to exchange some money at home before you leave so you have Canadian cash on hand for immediate needs such as transportation, accomodation, dining and shopping.

Dress for the weather

The weather in Winnipeg can go above +30 C in summer (July) and drop below -30 C in winter (December, January, February). At 30 degrees below zero, skin can freeze. To keep warm in winter Manitobans (when we leave our heated homes and offices to go outside) wear boots, hats that cover the ears, gloves and well-insulated coats or jackets. For seasonal and daily forecasts visit Environment Canada: Weather Office.

Airport transportation

If you are travelling by plane you will arrive at Winnipeg International Airport. A taxi from the airport to downtown Winnipeg (where the major hotels are located) costs about C$20.

Map of Winnipeg

To acquaint yourself with your destination, browse the Google Map of Winnipeg.

When you arrive go to Manitoba START

Manitoba START is the first place for you to go after you arrive in Winnipeg. At Manitoba START you will receive information and be referred to employment and orientation services as well as the settlement worker who helps newcomers in your neighbourhood.

If you are moving to city or town outside of Winnipeg, you can find local settlement, employment and language services for immigrants by searching for the name of your destination on the page Regional Communities.