Newcomer Guide

A SIN is required to work and receive government benefits in Canada. Apply online or at a Service Canada office as soon as you arrive — it's free.

LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) offers free English classes for permanent residents and protected persons at locations across Metro Vancouver.

TD offers a free bank account for the first year for new immigrants. You can open it before arriving in Canada. TD has multilingual staff at many Vancouver branches.

WorkBC is the BC government's free employment service. Helps with job search, resume writing, interview prep, and skills training. Offices across Metro Vancouver.

Official IRCC page on CUAET: who qualifies, how to extend your status, and what to do as your CUAET approaches expiry. Check for the latest updates.

BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) covers most medical services. New residents must enroll immediately — there is a 3-month waiting period before coverage begins.

MOSAIC is one of Vancouver's largest immigrant services organizations. Offers free settlement support, legal aid, language classes, and counselling for newcomers.

Official BC government guide to renting: your rights as a tenant, how to sign a lease, what landlords can and cannot do, and how to resolve disputes.

IRCC's online tool to check the status of your permanent residence, work permit, or any other immigration application. Create an account with your application number.

BC Housing provides subsidized housing and rental assistance for low-income residents. Find programs you may qualify for, including rental supplements and social housing.

The BC Services Card is your provincial photo ID and health insurance card in one. Apply after enrolling in MSP — you'll need it for most government services.

Official BC tool to find doctors and midwives accepting new patients near you. If you cannot find a family doctor, walk-in clinics are listed here too.

S.U.C.C.E.S.S. provides a wide range of services for immigrants in BC including settlement, employment, education, and seniors programs across Metro Vancouver.

RBC offers a free account for the first year and help building Canadian credit history for newcomers. Wide ATM and branch network across Metro Vancouver.

If you have education or credentials from another country, BC has pathways to get them recognized. Especially important for healthcare workers, engineers, and teachers.

MOSAIC offers English classes, accent modification, and workplace language training for immigrants in Vancouver. Most programs are free for eligible newcomers.

The largest rental listing board in Vancouver. Be cautious of scams — never send money before viewing a place in person.

BC 211 is a free helpline and database of all social and health services in BC. Call 2-1-1 anytime or search online to find services in your area.

Canada's official government job board. Search by location, industry, and salary. Also includes labour market forecasts showing which jobs are in highest demand.

WelcomeBC is the official BC government resource for immigrants. Covers everything from finding housing and work to healthcare and education in plain language.

DIVERSEcity provides settlement services, legal aid, and youth programs in Surrey, Langley, and the Fraser Valley — the most affordable areas for new arrivals.

If you have a foreign driver's licence, you may be able to exchange it for a BC licence. ICBC explains the process and which countries qualify for direct exchange.

Scotiabank StartRight gives newcomers a free account, no Canadian credit history required, and help getting a first credit card to start building your credit score.

CRA My Account lets you file taxes, apply for Canada Child Benefit (CCB), and track benefit payments. Set it up as soon as you have a SIN.

The Ukrainian Canadian Congress provides resources and support specifically for Ukrainians who arrived in Canada after 2022, including community connections.