Govt. Forms and Website

Your trusted guide to Canada’s official portals

Settling into Canada means filling out a lot of forms — from getting your Social Insurance Number (SIN) to applying for health coverage, registering for taxes, and enrolling your kids in school. It can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry — you don’t have to figure it out alone.

This page explains the most important government forms and websites you’ll need as a newcomer, how to use them, and what documents to have ready. Think of it as your roadmap through Canada’s official systems.

Find More Support

Connect Your Community

Connect Your Community helps you build meaningful relationships, share resources, and engage in local events. Together, we create a supportive network where everyone feels welcome, included, and empowered to thrive.
Find Commnunity

Core Federal Forms & Portals (What Everyone Needs First)

Service Canada

What it’s for:

  • Applying for or replacing your Social Insurance Number (SIN) — required for working and paying taxes.
  • Accessing Employment Insurance (EI).
  • Learning about Canada Pension Plan (CPP) benefits.

How to use it:

  • Apply online or at a Service Canada Centre (in-person, you may need an appointment).
  • Keep your confirmation letter or SIN card safe.

Documents usually required:

  • Passport
  • Immigration document (PR card, work/study permit)
  • Proof of address

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

What it’s for:

  • Applications for work permits, study permits, permanent residency (PR), citizenship, family sponsorships, and visitor visas.

How to use it:

  • Create an IRCC online account to apply, pay fees, upload documents, and track status.
  • Only use official IRCC websites ending in .gc.ca.

Tips for newcomers:

  • Save your application number and all emails.
  • Never share your login details.
  • If you use a representative, make sure they are authorized and verified.

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

What it’s for:

  • Filing taxes.
  • Applying for benefits like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and GST/HST credit.
  • Setting up your CRA My Account to manage everything online.

How to use it:

  • Register for CRA My Account online.
  • Link your bank account for direct deposit of refunds and benefits.

Documents usually required:

  • SIN
  • Passport and immigration entry date
  • Income slips (e.g., T4 from your employer)
  • Bank account details
  • Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)

What it’s for:

  • Temporary health coverage for refugees and protected persons before provincial health coverage starts.

How to use it:

  • If eligible, follow the instructions provided through IRCC or your settlement worker.

Personalized Support for Every Individual

Community Networkings that Matter

World-class Programs with Real Impact

Provincial & Territorial Forms (Health, Driving, Housing)

Every province and territory has its own set of forms. Here are the most common ones:

Health Coverage & Insurance

  • Apply for your provincial health card (OHIP in Ontario, MSP in BC, AHCIP in Alberta, etc.).
  • Usually requires proof of ID, immigration documents, and proof of address.

Driver’s Licence & Vehicle Registration

  • Apply to exchange your foreign licence (if your country has an agreement) or take driving tests.
  • Register and insure your car — insurance is mandatory.

Social Assistance & Benefits

  • Provincial income supports and subsidized housing programs are available through provincial or municipal portals.

Tip: Always check your province’s official site for forms and rules — they differ by location.

Municipal & Local Forms (Everyday Life)

At the city level, you’ll often use forms for:

  • 311 requests (reporting potholes, garbage, broken streetlights).
  • Utility setup or transfers (water, hydro, gas).
  • Property tax accounts.
  • Permits (building, parking, business licences).
  • Library cards, daycare registration, and recreation programs.

Use your city’s official website or 311 app. Many cities also offer translations of forms and guides.

Education & Child-Related Forms

  • School registration: Provided by your local school board; you’ll need ID, proof of address, and immunization records.
  • Childcare applications & subsidies: Provincial/municipal registries often list licensed centres and subsidy forms.
  • College/university applications: Use portals like OUAC (Ontario universities), OCAS (Ontario colleges), or your province’s equivalent.

Employment & Credentials

  • Credential evaluation (ECA): Required for many employers, schools, and immigration programs (e.g., through WES, ICAS).
  • Professional licensing applications: Nurses, engineers, teachers, and other regulated professions must apply through their provincial regulator.
  • Training/Job grants: Some provinces offer subsidies (like the Canada Job Grant).

Legal & Civil Forms

  • Court and tribunal forms: Family law, tenancy disputes, small claims. Many provinces provide plain-language PDFs.
  • Legal aid applications: Free or low-cost legal help if you qualify.
  • Notarized translations: Some government forms require documents to be officially translated and certified.

 

Practical Tips for a Smooth Start

  • Always rely on official websites ending in .gc.ca (federal) or .gov.[province].ca (provincial).
  • Keep all your IDs, proof of address, and immigration documents securely in one folder for easy access.
  • Save application numbers and confirmation emails — these serve as your proof and tracking reference.
  • If you feel confused or uncertain at any step, we’re here to guide you and ensure the process feels simple and stress-free.
Belong and Connect

Discover a Supportive Network Where You Belong

Connect Your Community
Contact Us

Starting fresh in Canada? We’re here to help.

Whether you’ve just arrived or need support navigating the next steps, reach out today. Let’s build Life together!

Ready to Start Your Journey? Let’s Make It Easier, Together.

Starting fresh in a new place can be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate it by yourself. Whether it’s settling into your community, accessing key services, or finding the right support, we’re here to make the transition smoother and more meaningful.

Contact Us
Testimonials

Love from Newcomers in Canada

NSN helped me understand the Canadian financial system, which seemed so complicated at first. Thanks to their guidance, I rented my first apartment easily and started building my credit confidently. Highly recommend their services!

Maria Santos

Philippines

NSN made my student journey in Canada seamless. From understanding tuition, scholarships, and courses to building my credit, their step-by-step guidance gave me confidence and peace of mind.

Rohan Patel

India

Moving to a new country was overwhelming, but NSN helped me find a safe apartment and explained all the paperwork clearly. I finally feel settled and supported in my new home.

Darnell Brown

Jamaica

Joining a new community is intimidating, but NSN helped me feel connected. Their cultural orientation sessions and newcomer programs made me feel welcomed and confident in my new city.

Anjali Mehta

India

From healthcare registration to housing and community resources, NSN made settling in Canada smooth and manageable. I feel prepared and supported every step of the way. I’m grateful for their guidance.

Fatima Ahmed

Pakistan
back top