This nine-digit number allows you to work in Canada whether you are a temporary or permanent resident. You cannot get paid without a SIN. Apply for free online at eservices.canada.ca or in person at the Grande Prairie Service Canada Centre.

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Keep your SIN private and only share it with trusted sources to prevent fraud or identity theft.

The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) provides free coverage for basic medical services like doctor visits, hospital care and diagnostic tests. 

You must register for the AHCIP within three (3) months of arriving in Alberta. You can do this online at alberta.ca/registry-agents or in person at a registry agent. 

To apply for free health insurance, you will need:

• Identification;
• Proof of Alberta residency; and 
• Proof of legal status in Canada to apply. 

After processing, you will receive an Alberta Personal Health Card in the mail. You need this card to access healthcare services.

A government-issued ID card is an official form of identification and will be important for you to have to sign up for services. Look online to find a registry agent near you or visit alberta.ca to learn more.

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION: In Alberta, both a driver’s license and a government ID card are official forms of identification. A driver’s license authorizes you to operate a motor vehicle on public roads while a government ID card is for personal identification. You must pass a driving test to get a driver’s license, but a government ID is available to everyone.

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HELPFUL TIP: Many banks offer a free or low-cost chequing and savings account. This will help you avoid extra charges from using an international debit or credit card.

You will need a bank account to help manage your finances, deposit your pay cheque and pay your bills. You will need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to open a bank account. Do some research as there are differences between major banks, credit unions and online banks.

Having a phone number is essential for many aspects of life. You may be surprised at the high price of phone plans in Canada. To make your phone plan cheaper, consider a low data plan and use free Wi-Fi available in many public places. To call internationally for free, use messaging apps instead.

The Grande Prairie Centre for Newcomers is a key resource for you to visit within the early stages of your settlement. The centre offers a range of free services like language classes, job workshops and settlement support to make the transition smoother. You can get guidance on everything from finding a doctor to enrolling your kids in school. 

• Website: www.gpcn.ca
• Phone number: (780) 538-4452
• Email: info@gpcn.ca
• Address: 10014 99 St, Suite 520, Grande Prairie, AB

Grande Prairie Public Library (GPPL) is a community hub for learning. You can get a free library card to borrow books, DVDs and even video games. You can also use the computer stations to browse the internet or print documents. The library is a great place to research jobs and prepare a resume or cover letter.

• Website: www.gppl.ca
• Phone number: (780) 532-3580
• Email: info@gppl.ca
• Address: 101-9839 103 Ave., Grande Prairie

Immigration consultants or lawyers are professionals who help immigrants fill out and file paperwork for a fee. Hiring an immigration consultant or lawyer is not necessary. Many people submit their own applications by themselves or with help from people with experience navigating the system.

If you do choose to hire an immigration consultant or lawyer, there are some important things you need to know:

• Services can cost thousands of dollars. There are no set rules or industry standards for what immigration services cost. Before agreeing to anything, make sure you understand the fee structure and what services are and are not included. 
• There have been some reports of scams and fraud. It is important to find a reputable business with a proven record of legitimate services. 
• Check their credentials, such as their education, training, and professional memberships. They should be publicly registered with the Canadian Bar Association or the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CRCIC). 
• They should not promise your application will be accepted. No professional can promise this as immigration decisions are determined by official authorities only. 

• They do not ask for money before an initial consultation and before you sign a legal contract for their services. 

  The Government of Canada provides comprehensive guidance on how to spot a scam. If you think you are a victim of a financial scam through an immigration lawyer, report it right away.