Once you’ve taken care of your immediate needs—like food, transportation, and money—you’ll probably feel more settled and comfortable. It’s a good time to check more items off of your “to do” list.
Organize essential services
Find your nearest Service New Brunswick building to get your Social Insurance Number (SIN). You’ll need a SIN in order to work. If needed, you may also want to apply for a New Brunswick Driver's License at the same location. This will require studying for a written and driving exam. Your next stop should be to visit Service Canada to apply for government health insurance, also known as Medicare. This can also be done online Once you receive your Medicare Card, you must register for Patient Connect NB to be matched with a primary healthcare provider. While you wait, you may pay for medical services or choose to purchase personal health insurance. Learn more
Find permanent housing
Whether you decide to rent an apartment or buy a house, you’ll find a wide variety of housing options available. Many neighbourhoods have schools, grocery stores, single and multi-family houses or apartment units. Once you are ready to commit to longer-term housing, there are people who can help you. Learn more
Continue your job or education search
Once you have your Social Insurance Number you can begin your job search. There are many possibilities for a rewarding career in the Saint John Region. For help with your search, connect with WorkingNB. WorkingNB provides one-on-one career counselling tailored to your specific skills. Local settlement agencies can help you with resume preparation, workshops, and local job market information. Learn more
Continue to improve your English and/or French skills
The better your language and communication skills, the easier it will be to find work and meet people in your new community. New Brunswick is the only officially bilingual province in Canada, which means many of our residents speak both English and French. If you are fluent in English, French will be an asset but it’s not mandatory for all employers. Many English speakers have successful careers even if they don’t speak French.
There are many supports that can help you learn or improve a language, whether English or French. Some are free of charge, while others come with program fees. Learn more
Register your child in school
In Canada, elementary and secondary education are managed by each province or territory. Canadian law states that all children must be registered to attend school the year they turn five. Public schools are free of charge and private schools require a tuition fee. To register, your child must have a legal document with their date of birth, proof of address, and proof of immunizations against certain diseases. If you need information about this, or to discuss immunizations please contact public health.