There’s a lot of life admin to be done when you first move anywhere, Vancouver is no different and so we’ve got some tips to help make the transition easier.

If we’ve missed anything, let us know!

1. Follow us on Facebook and then join the Kiwis in Vancouver group – the search functionality will help you find answers to questions that might have been asked before, or you can ask the community a question.
2. Switch over your drivers licence – ICBC issue all BC drivers licences. You can only legally drive on your NZ licence for 90 days so you’ll need to surrender your NZTA issued one to drive after this.
3. Get a Social Insurance Number (SIN) – this is like your IRD number at home and you’ll need it to secure (and importantly, get paid) employment. You’ll need to go into Service Canada, it costs you nothing, you just need to take along ID and your valid visa.
4. Sign up for MSP – this is provincial health care. You’ll need to meet certain requirements (these differ if you’re on a working holiday), like being employed and there is a fee per month, but medical care in Vancouver can soon add up, even a quick trip to the doctor without MSP can be $100+.