A practical guide for Arabic-speaking newcomers to Vancouver — documents, healthcare, housing, work, language and emergencies, with links to the official source for each.
Your guide to obtaining official documents in Vancouver and British Columbia
9-digit number - same process across Canada
Source: Apply for SIN · Last verified 2025-12-01
Photo ID and health card combined - apply at ICBC or Service BC
Source: BC Services Card · Last verified 2025-12-01
Issued by ICBC - may need translation of home country license
Source: ICBC Driver Licensing · Last verified 2025-12-01
RBC, TD, BMO, Scotiabank, CIBC plus Vancity credit union - all have newcomer programs
Source: Vancity Newcomers · Last verified 2025-12-01
3-month waiting period. Refugees eligible for Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)
Source: Medical Services Plan · Last verified 2025-12-01
Surrey, Burnaby, New Westminster, East Van - diverse communities with settlement services
WorkBC centres offer free employment services - counselling, training, job matching
Source: WorkBC · Last verified 2025-12-01
ELSA and LINC for permanent residents. Mosaic and YWCA offer additional immigrant programs
Source: Mosaic BC · Last verified 2025-12-01
911 for police, ambulance, fire. BC Crisis Line for mental health. RCMP for non-emergency
Services: Settlement services · Language classes · Employment
Services: LINC · Settlement · Employment