There is also a scheme for wedding gifts if you are newly married or about to be married within 3 months of your arrival in Canada. It is worth noting that any items you will be using for commercial purposes will be subject to regular duties at the current rates.

With the recent international clamp downs on terrorism and money laundering it is essential that if you physically carry on your person, over C$10,000 or foreign equivalent in cash, bonds or securities you report it to the customs official. There isn't any limit on settler’s funds but failure to follow the rules may result in the seizure of the cash and/or big fines. See the pamphlet RC 4321. Vehicles can also be imported as personal effects but they must meet the strict Transport Canada Requirements and tested within 45 days. These requirements apply to vehicles less than 15 years old and buses that were manufactured on or after January 1st 1971. For all the information go to pamphlet RC4140 Importing a Vehicle into Canada. Firearms are restricted in Canada and it is advisable to contact the CBSA directly regarding this should you wish to import any.

Due to the extensive regulations associated with the import of meat, dairy products, fresh fruit and vegetables it is recommended that you just don't bother. It will delay your arrival if you have them with you - especially if not declared!

The same goes for house and garden plants. They contribute to the spread of disease and insects and are subject to rigid regulations. Contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency through the links above for more details.

Depending upon your schedule and knowledge of the area you move to, it may be worth taking it easy for the first couple of days. The chances are you will have had a long and stressful departure and journey so enjoy your new surroundings, be a tourist and relax.

It is definitely worth applying for your health card as soon as possible - Ontario, British Columbia, New Brunswick and Quebec all have a 3 month qualifying period so you will need private insurance - we will have links to the best providers soon. Our Provincial pages have links to the detailed healthcare information for each Province. Also, register with a family doctor and dentist as there may well be a waiting list and they aren't obliged to take you on! You will have to pay for medical services until your card is issued so make sure you keep any receipts as you can claim it back (apart from Ontario, BC, New Brunswick and Quebec).