Your to-do list before going to Canada

Get the best airfare deal

To find the best deal, shop around! Use travel agencies, airline websites or fare aggregators to find the lowest possible price.

Depending on your plans, you can consider the following ticket options:

• A one-way ticket: two one-way tickets can be more expensive than a round-trip ticket but this option gives you the most flexibility. Note that with IEC work permits, a round-trip ticket is NOT mandatory. However, on top of the required CA$2,500 to cover your expenses, you must show you have sufficient funds to purchase a return ticket at the end of your stay.

• A round-trip ticket, which is often cheaper but offers less flexibility.

• An open-ended ticket that sends you to a destination on a specific date, with a flexible return date.

Note that if you have a 24-month work permit, you probably won’t be able to find a ticket with a return date two years from your departure date. With most airlines, the latest return date is usually within one year of your departure, so you may have to buy a one-way ticket.

Round-trip tickets are often cheaper than one-way tickets. If you don’t use the return ticket, the fare won’t be refundable but you can claim back airline tax. The process isn’t always straightforward, depending on the airline company or travel agency, and an administrative fee could be deducted. Just don’t forget to budget for your return ticket!

Check the airline’s policy if you have special requirements, including travelling with your pet or checking in special baggage items like musical instruments. Terms and conditions vary greatly.