What Documents Do I Need?
When you arrive in Canada for the first time, your entry point will be the first Canadian airport you land at, known as the port of entry. Upon arrival at the airport, you will need to present the following documents to a border services officer:
Letter of Introduction: the letter you received from IRCC confirming your study permit approval
Passport: ensure that you passport is valid (not expired) and legible
Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
Passage Pass and Proof of Financial Support
Proof of course registration: recommended in case the officer requests more details about your studies
One-pager about Passage: as the officer may ask about Passage
For a full list of required documents, always refer to the IRCC website.
After waiting in the immigration line at the port of entry, a border services officer will review these documents to ensure you meet the entry requirements. Once your documents are verified, your study permit will be issued. You will receive a physical study permit, and it must be uploaded to your Passage application to activate your loan. If you have also applied for a Work Integrated Learning permit (ex. co-op work permit) with your study permit application, it will be issued at this time as well.
Immigration and Luggage Claim
Upon arriving at Toronto Pearson International Airport (Terminals 1 or 3), you will first complete the Immigration process. Afterward, claim your luggage before entering the arrival lobby.
Social Insurance Number
You can get your Social Insurance Number (SIN) at Pearson Airport. Service Canada (official government agency) has an office there, but it's only open on weekdays with limited hours.
If you are unable to get your SIN at the airport, don't panic. Here are your next steps:
Visit the Service Canada location in person to get your SIN. To find the Service Canada location nearest to you and its hours of operation, visit the Service Canada website.
Apply online for your SIN - it is quick and easy. The eSIN portal offers a secure and protected environment where you can complete your SIN application and upload digital copies of your documents.
Transportation Options
If no one is picking you up, various transportation options are available:
Union Pearson Express (UP Express): A direct rail link between the airport and downtown Toronto. More details can be found at www.upexpress.com.
Public Transit Passes: Buses connecting to the subway system operate from the airport; note that public transportation typically ends around 1:00 am and resumes around 5:30 am, local time. Good to know: Most cities offer monthly transit passes for buses, subways, or trains (e.g., around $100–$150 CAD)
Meeting Point
In the arrival lobby, you can meet with your pre-arranged contact, whether it's a friend, relative, or a representative from your homestay program.
If you can't find your contact, visit the Information Counter in the arrival lobby. Staff can help you page them.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange services are available in the arrival lobby. We recommend exchanging your money outside of the airport if you have enough for your initial expenses as the currency rates at the airport may be higher than your bank's.
Internet Access
Free internet is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected with family and friends.