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Pre-Departure Planning

Required documents upon arrival in Canada

Carry the following documents and all other valuable items with you at all times rather than in your checked baggage. Entrance into Canada may be denied if any of your documents are missing or if any of the information on your application or letter of reference is incorrect. The Government of Canada also provides an online resource full of information and guidelines to help travellers prepare.

  • The letter of introduction from Citizenship and Immigration Canada that you received when your study permit was approved. This letter shows your study permit reference number.
  • Your valid passport and a valid temporary resident visa (TRV), if required.
  • Your offer of admission letter from Lakehead University. Evidence of financial support. Upon arrival in Canada, you must have proof that you have enough money available to you to pay for your tuition, accommodation and living expenses for the duration of your studies at Lakehead-Georgian.
  • Letters of reference or any other documents recommended by the Canadian Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate in your country.

While United States residents may apply for a study permit by mailing the application to one of Canada’s Consulate General offices in the U.S. – Buffalo, Detroit, Los Angeles, New York, Seattle or Washington – residents may apply for a study permit at a Canadian Port of Entry upon arrival in Canada.

Application forms and up-to-date information concerning study permits.

Once you have entered Canada:

  • Check your study permit to make sure all the information is correct.
  • Check the date that’s stamped in your passport telling you when you must leave Canada.

Tips on what to pack

We want you to be prepared and feel at home while studying at Lakehead-Georgian. Here are some suggestions about what to pack:

  • pictures from home
  • prescription medication
  • electrical converter
  • all required documentation for entry into and study in Canada
  • ensure you have access to funds while studying in Canada

The following items are available to purchase once you arrive in Canada; however, some students choose to bring them from home:

  • bedding: bed sheets, pillows and blankets
    • Georgian Barrie residence has extra-long double beds, so queen sheets will fit.
    • Lakehead Orillia residence has double beds – 137 cm × 191 cm.
  • towels
  • bathrobe
  • slippers
  • hair dryer
  • warm clothing
  • clothing hangers
  • computer
  • alarm clock
  • power bar

What not to bring:

  • candles
  • incense
  • pets
  • expensive valuables
  • illegal drugs
  • weapons

The Canada Border Services Agency also offers more information on restricted and prohibited goods.