Status & paperwork mistakes

• Assuming “I’m Canadian” automatically makes entry easy (you still need the right category).
• Arriving with incomplete job letters or unclear role descriptions.
• Not keeping copies of everything submitted/received.

Money mistakes

• Not budgeting for deposits and setup fees.
• Underestimating auto insurance without U.S. credit history.
• Not tracking large transfers and FX details.

Healthcare mistakes

• Choosing a plan by premium only (ignoring deductible + out-of-pocket max).
• Not checking in-network providers near your new home.
• Using the ER for non-emergencies when urgent care would do.

Housing & school mistakes

• Buying a home before learning neighborhoods and commutes.
• Not verifying school boundaries before signing a lease.
• Waiting too long to gather school enrollment documents.

Fix it fast: the “one-week reset”

1. Write your move story in 10 lines (status + job + location + date).
2. Create the document binder (Immigration, Housing, Taxes, Insurance, School).
3. Make a budget using 7 cost buckets (and add a buffer).
4. Book the right professional consult(s) for your situation.