Checklist for Canada-Japan Co-op Students Departing Canada

Items that Canada-Japan Co-op Students should take care of before departure to Japan:

• Make a photocopy of important information (for example: visa/passport/birth-certificate) and leave a copy with family or friends in Canada in case an emergency arises in Japan;
• Obtain out-of-province supplementary health insurance and ensure that provincial health insurance is prepaid and valid for the period of stay in Japan;
• Complete a medical and dental checkup prior to departure;
• Arrange for a 'Power of Attorney' incase you need someone to act on your behalf when in Japan, you may also consider having a co-signature on your bank accounts so a family member can act on your behalf if necessary;
• Ensure that you have taken care of all financial matters before departure such as arranging student loan payment and tuition etc;
• Ensure that you are registered for the appropriate co-op course/s during your co-op work terms/internship in Japan for the entire period of your stay, and that tuition and other related fees have been or will be paid (if you have any questions about registration please email coop.japan@ubc.ca);
• Formally change your university mailing address;
• Ensure you arrange accommodation for your week training period in Vancouver prior to departure (if requested assistance can be provided to arrange housing on campus during the period of the course at the students expense);
• Book your air ticket after you have picked up your visa;
• Register the duration you will be out of the country with the Department of Foreign Affairs;
• Take the Canadian Embassy or Canadian Consulate office location, phone number and address closest to you work site;
• Obtain at least 60,000yen in cash, for use upon arrival in Japan. Note: you may not receive payment from your company until the end of the first month of employment;
• Pack appropriately, Japan experiences all four seasons and the size and type of clothing that you prefer may not be available in Japan; and
• Take any personal items that you prefer to use (toothpaste, deodorant, medication etc...) as the same brands may not be readily available.