New to Canada & BC

Welcome to Canada

Useful information and tips from the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website, such as “how to find a job”, “how to find a place to live” and more. See a checklist for things you need to do in your first few weeks, first few months and first year. Click here for a printable version.

British Columbia’s Newcomers’ Guide

If you have recently arrived in B.C., this guide has information that can help you. It is written in clear and simple language. Check the WelcomeBCwebsite for more information. The guide is available in the following languages: English 简体中文 (Simplified Chinese) 繁體中文 (Traditional Chinese) 한국어 (Korean) Other languages

Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

If you want to work in Canada or have access to government programs and benefits, you need a SIN. Check the Service Canada website for more information. The information is also available in the following languages: English 简 体中文 (Simplified Chinese) 繁 體中文 (Traditional Chinese) 한 국어 (Korean) Other languages

Apply for a BC Health Care Card

All residents of BC must enroll with MSP (Medical Services Plan). Click here for more information.

Apply for a Driver’s Licence

Click here to find out how to apply for a BC Driver’s Licence. Learn to drive smart (formerly RoadSense for Drivers) is a reference and study manual for your Knowledge Test and road test; it includes tips to help you as a new or experienced driver.

Check the Public Transportation System

Click here to learn about the public transportation system and find schedules and maps. See the Bus & Skytrain Timetable by region Where to buy bus tickets

Find a Post Office

Click here to find a post office close to you. Find a post code Online tracking tool

Check the Phone Book

Check the blue pages in the phone book for telephone numbers for various government departments. You can also find immigrant-serving community organizations.