Moving someplace new can be challenging. There are excellent resources and supports available for newcomers to Kitimat, both locally and from the Province of B.C.
A comprehensive guide from the province available in 8 languages.
Learn More
Facilitates community integration and collaboration by introducing newcomers to available programs and community opportunities.
Learn More
Literacy support (English as a second language), learning opportunities, immigration settlement assistance and ESL tutoring to adults 19 years and older.
Learn MoreMoving to a new place can be overwhelming. We want to make sure you have all the information you need to make your transition to Kitimat as smooth as possible.
| To Do | Interprovincial Newcomer | Immigrant |
|---|---|---|
| Register for Medical Service Plan (MSP) | ||
| Find housing | ||
| Register your vehicle with Insurance Company British Columbia (ICBC) | ||
| Purchase insurance (medical, housing, vehicle, etc) | ||
| Register your children in school | ||
| Apply for a BC driver’s licence (within the first 90 days) | ||
| Register at a family doctor | ||
| Purchase a pet licence | ||
| Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) | ||
| Apply for the Child Tax Benefit for children under 18 years old | ||
| Book your BC driver’s licence road test | ||
| Open a bank account |
Below you will find detailed relocation information and tasks to add to your to-do list as you prepare to move!
Are you eligible?
Under the Medical Protection Act, enrollment with MSP is mandatory for all eligible residents and their dependents. MSP coverage is now free and you will no longer be required to pay a monthly fee. In order to enroll in MSP, you must fall under one of these four summarized categories:
How to apply for MSP
If you are new to Canada, apply for your MSP as soon as you arrive. Your coverage may start three months after your arrival date. Private healthcare insurance is recommended in the interim.
If you are moving from another province, you should arrange for coverage with your former medical plan during the wait period. If your family is not here yet, they need to keep their existing provincial health care. Once they arrive, you can apply to add them to your new plan.
If your MSP coverage is under a group plan through your employer, union or pension plan, please contact your group administrator for more information on applying. To obtain the MSP application forms or to apply online, visit gov.bc.ca.
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number that you need to work in Canada or to have access to government programs and benefits. For more information on requirements and what documents you need to apply, visit canada.ca
The nearest Service Canada office to Kitimat to apply for your SIN is in Terrace:
Service Canada Centre
Address: 4630 Lazelle Avenue, Terrace
Phone number: 800-622-6232
Before you can get licence plates and insurance for a vehicle in British Columbia, the vehicle must be registered with ICBC. Registering serves as the official record of your vehicle. It also identifies you as its owner. Register online at icbc.com
You have 90 days to switch over your licence after moving to BC. You can drive with an existing, valid licence in the interim. For more information, visit ICBC’s website.
It’s important to protect your family against unexpected challenges and ensure your assets and standard of living are maintained. Insurance is critical in reducing the stress of unforeseen circumstances and allowing you and your family to enjoy financial security.
The following insurance companies sell:
Westland Insurance
Address: 956 Wakashan Avenue, Kitimat
Phone number: 250-639-4739
Website: https://www.westlandinsurance.ca/
Kitimat Insurance Services
Address: 244 City Centre
Phone number: 250-632-4485
Website: www.insurebc.ca/insurance-brokers/kitimat-insurance-services/
The Canada child benefit (CCB) is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). It is a tax-free monthly payment made to eligible families to help with the cost of raising children under 18 years of age. The CCB may include the child disability benefit and any related provincial and territorial programs. For more information visit canada.ca
If you’ve recently moved to Kitimat and want to know about what the city has to offer in more detail, this guide is for you. It contains detailed community information from recycling to transit schedules, maps and more.
