Your first 30 days
Tax number, bank, phone, transport and health: set up in the right order.
1 min read🇨🇦 Canada · 🇦🇺 Australia
Week 1
- Get a local SIM so employers and landlords can reach you.
- Open a student bank account (bring your passport and enrolment letter).
- Canada: apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN) before you start any job.
- Australia: apply online for a Tax File Number (TFN).
- Australia: give your school your residential address (a visa condition).
Weeks 2–4
- Attend orientation and meet your international student adviser.
- Get a student transport card for discounts.
- Understand your health cover: OSHC in Australia; in Canada, provincial or school plans depending on province.
- Register with a local doctor or clinic.
- Start looking for long-term housing if you are in a temporary stay.
Mental health matters
Homesickness and culture shock are normal. Your school offers free, confidential counselling, so use it early. Community and student groups help too.
Official sources
Rules change often. Always confirm with the official source before you submit anything.
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