There’s a lot of preparing you need to do before you make the move to Canada. Some of it makes sense, like packing boxes and canceling utilities, but there are some other things you should know about this country before you call it home.

1 - You Have to Apply for a Visa

No matter what country you’re moving to, you have to look into getting a visa. Unfortunately, it requires a lot more than just filling out a little paperwork. You will be required to provide things you might expect, like a photocopy of your passport and visa application fees, but there are some other things you need that you might not expect. For example, "As of July 31, 2018, if you are a national of a country or territory in Europe, the Middle East, or Africa, you may also be required to submit certain biometrics, including fingerprints and a photograph." When applying for a visa, the sooner, the better. The process can take weeks or even months, so it’s important to get the process started as soon as you know you’re moving.

2 - It can get really cold during winter months

Canada is a northern country. As you might expect, it can get cold, but a lot of newcomers are surprised at just how cold the temperatures can get.

It does depend on where you live. Some of the southerly cities enjoy average lows around 30 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter, but other areas of the country can sustain negative degree temperatures for days and weeks on end.

If you don’t like hot weather, you’ll love Canada! Even the warmest areas of the country see averages in the mid 70’s in the summer, with many areas only reaching 50 or 60 degrees.

3 - There’s a Lot to Explore

Canada is huge. As a matter of fact, it’s the second largest country in the world, after Russia. That means there is a lot to explore as a new resident! A few places to check out include:

• Niagara Falls
• The Rocky Mountains in Banff National Park
• The CN Tower in Toronto
• The village and ski resort in Whistler
• See the polar bears in Northern Manitoba

Canada sometimes gets a bad rap for being full of reclusive cabins in the woods. Although there are plenty of those to go around, if that’s your thing, there are plenty of world-class cities to visit and call home as well. From Montreal to Toronto, Ottawa Quebec City, and Vancouver, there are plenty of bustling cities within Canada that have everything you would expect from a large city. Many of the cities in Canada have added charm with historic buildings that have been around for 100 years or more.

There’s a lot to look forward to if you’re planning a move to Canada! Just make sure you know what you’re getting into. With the tips on this list, you can fully prepare yourself for your new life as a Canadian citizen.