Newcomers

Servicing: Victoria, Oak Bay, Saanich, Uplands, and the University area.

Arriving as a newcomer to Canada, either alone or with family, can be a difficult adjustment for anyone.
We at Victoria Notary Services can help you navigate through some of this bureaucracy.

Identification

One of the first things you should acquire upon arriving in Canada is a Social Insurance Number (SIN). A SIN is required if you would like to open a Canadian bank account and work in Canada. You can apply for your SIN with your proof-of-identity documents at a Service Canada Centre—an address and directions to our Victoria Service Canada Centre can be found below.

Proof-of-identity documents are required to obtain Canadian identification such as a British Columbia Identification cards, Permanent/Temporary Resident cards, BC Care Cards, and credit cards.

How We Can Help:  

• Certified True Copies
• Legalization of Documents (Authentications, Apostilles)
• Invitation Letters (to bring friends/family for a visit to Canada)

Helpful Links:

• Government of Canada SIN Information
• Victoria Service Canada Centres

Moving

Depending on your housing needs and financial position, there are many local businesses and establishments that can help you make an informed decision when purchasing or renting a home. You might consider factors such as location, commuting from home to work, and nearby schools for your children.

How can we help:

• Confirmation of identification
• Reviewing documents
• Registration of Mortgages, Purchases, or Sales
• Assisting with legal work

Helpful Links:

CMHC Renting, Buying a Home, Planning and Managing your Mortgage:

• https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/newcomers/en/renting.html

International Cultural Association of Greater Victoria:

• http://www.icavictoria.org/welcome-centre/english-classes/

New to BC Guide:

• http://newtobc.ca/newcomer-resources/

Finances

One of the first things you will need to do upon arriving in Canada is open a Canadian bank account. There are many financial institutions where you can open a bank account and many of them offer specific products and packages aimed at newcomers to Canada. Before making large purchases, such as a property, it is also important to go review your financial position.

How can we help:

• Review financial and legal documents

Helpful Links:

• CIBC Newcomer to Canada Banking Package
• CIBC Credit Card for Newcomers—Build Your Credit
• How to Bring Your Money to Canada