First time coming to Canada? Don’t worry! This guide walks you through everything you need to do after landing at Toronto Pearson Airport, all the way to arriving safely in Hamilton, where McMaster University is located. Follow these steps to start your student journey smoothly.
✈️ Step-by-Step Airport Exit Process
Basic sequence:
Immigration & Border Check → Study Permit Issuance → Baggage Claim → Travel to Hamilton
✅ Step 1. Immigration & Border Check
After you land, follow signs for “Arrivals” or “Immigration.” Make sure to have:
- Your passport (with your valid study visa attached inside)
- Supporting documents (such as your McMaster offer letter, study permit approval letter)
- The customs declaration form handed out on the plane (or your ArriveCAN receipt)
Tips:
- You don’t need to prepare extra materials like transcripts for immigration unless specifically asked.
- Most students pass through smoothly with minimal questions—just stay calm and polite.
✅ Step 2. Getting Your Study Permit (Printed Version)
You MUST get your paper study permit issued at the airport. This is your legal document that allows you to study in Canada.
- After immigration, you'll be directed to a special area called Immigration Secondary Inspection.
- Present your passport and your study permit approval letter (POE Letter).
Important:
- If you have enough time, ask the staff if it is possible to apply for your SIN (Social Insurance Number) after getting your permit.
✅ Step 3. Baggage Claim
You’ll find Baggage Claim after immigration. Locate your flight number and collect your checked luggage.
- Free carts are available to help carry your bags.
- If your luggage is missing, report it to staff immediately—they can deliver it to your address in Canada for free once it arrives.
✅ Step 4. Getting to Hamilton
Now it’s time to head to Hamilton. There are several convenient options depending on your situation.
🚌 How to Get from Toronto Pearson Airport to Hamilton
🚍 Option 1: GO Bus Route 40
This is the most recommended method—safe, affordable, and available 24/7.
✅ Step 1: Find the GO Bus Stop
- If you landed at Terminal 3, take the free Terminal Link Train to Terminal 1.
- At Terminal 1, go to Ground Level (outside) and look for P/Q area. Find a green GO Transit sign—that's the stop.
✅ Step 2: Buy Your Ticket
- You CANNOT buy tickets on the bus.
- Buy your ticket using:
- A GO Transit vending machine inside Terminal 1 (accepts credit cards)
- Or online: GO Transit e-tickets
✅ Step 3: Ride the GO Bus
- Take Route 40 GO Bus toward Hamilton GO Centre.
- Buses run every day, every 30 minutes (at :05 and :35 past the hour).
- The bus allows large luggage and has onboard WiFi and USB charging ports.
✅ Step 4: Choose Where to Get Off
- New students: Get off at Hamilton GO Centre (downtown)—easier to catch a cab or meet your host.
- Returning students: Get off at Main St. W. @ Paisley Ave. S., which is close to McMaster campus.
🚖 Option 2: Pickup by a Senior Student
Some senior McMaster students offer airport pickup services for $50–$100 CAD.
- Safer and more convenient for first-timers.
- Usually arranged through social media in advance.
- Make sure to agree on:
- Terminal and time
- Cash prepared if needed
- Don’t agree to help carry tobacco or alcohol for others—it could be illegal.
🚗 Option 3: Ride-Sharing Apps (Uber / Lyft)
- Download the app in advance and register with a working number.
- Follow airport signs to the ride-share pickup zone.
- Fares from Pearson to Hamilton typically range from $120–$180 CAD.
🚐 Option 4: Private Shuttle Service (Airways Transit)
- Website: Airways Transit
- Door-to-door service, ideal for groups or lots of luggage
- Higher cost but very convenient
📱 Extra Tips
- Use free airport WiFi (Toronto Pearson Free Wi-Fi) to check directions or contact friends.
- If you can't connect, use a payphone (bring coins or buy a snack to get change).
- You can bring up to $10,000 CAD in cash when entering Canada. If you have more, you must declare it or risk having it seized.
🎒 What to Pack in Your Carry-On
- Passport, visa, study permit approval letter
- Admission letter, address of your short-term stay
- Printed copies of all key documents
- A pen, small bills, phone charger, snacks
- Notebook with important contacts and directions (in case your phone doesn’t work)
⭐️ May your first steps in Hamilton be smooth, and your path ahead be bright. I am Shannon, waiting at McMaster to welcome you.