Step 1Service Canada
Social Insurance Number
The SIN is the nine-digit number you need to work and to receive many benefits. Applying is free. Service Canada no longer issues a plastic card.
Last checked October 19, 2026
British Columbia
First 30 days for newcomers in British Columbia
MSP enrolment is mandatory for eligible B.C. residents, and the province funds the BC Newcomer Services Program for many people the federal settlement program does not cover.
1 listing is specific to British Columbia. The rest are national and still apply here.
| Listing | Government fee | Do this if | What we could verify | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Insurance NumberService Canada | Free | Anyone starting work or benefits | No plastic card; in-person visits return your documents the same day | Provider page |
| B.C. Medical Services PlanGovernment of British Columbia | No cost to apply | Eligible B.C. residents, enrolment mandatory | One application also covers Fair PharmaCare | Provider page |
| Taxes and benefits for newcomersCanada Revenue Agency | Filing is free if you do it yourself; benefits depend on eligibility | First year you are a tax resident | Benefits can start before the first return | Provider page |
| Permanent resident cardImmigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada | First card is free inside 180 days | Permanent residents | Required to fly back to Canada | Provider page |
Step 3Government of British Columbia
B.C. Medical Services Plan
Eligible B.C. residents must enrol in MSP. There is no cost to apply. You need coverage in place before you rely on a doctor or a hospital.
Last checked October 19, 2026
Step 6Canada Revenue Agency
Taxes and benefits for newcomers
The CRA treats you as a newcomer in the first year you are a resident for income tax. For most people that starts the day you begin living in Canada. Benefits can start before your first tax return.
Last checked October 19, 2026
Step 7Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Permanent resident card
The PR card is the document that shows you are a permanent resident and that you need in order to fly back to Canada. The first card is free if you send your photo and address within 180 days of becoming a PR.
Last checked October 19, 2026
Looking at another province? Start from the first 30 days directory.