Moving to Nova Scotia: your first steps as a newcomer
Arriving in Nova Scotia? Here is what to do during your first three months, in order, with the province’s own rules and links to official sites.
First week Days 1 to 7
Get your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
You need a SIN to work and to receive government benefits. Apply online or at a Service Canada office. Bring your passport and your confirmation of permanent residence, or your work or study permit.
Register for health insurance (MSI)
Each province runs its own health insurance. In Nova Scotia, it is MSI — Nova Scotia Health Insurance. The rules depend on your status:
- Permanent resident
- Coverage usually starts on the day you become a Nova Scotia resident. You apply online.
- Temporary worker
- Eligible if your work permit or employment contract is for 12 months or more. Coverage starts on your residency date or your permit’s issue date, whichever is later. You must sign a declaration.
- International student
- Eligible with a study permit of at least 12 months, but only from the first day of the 13th month after you arrive. Until then, you need private insurance, often your school’s.
MSI — Nova Scotia Health Insurance ↗
Set up a phone plan and open a bank account
A Canadian phone number is asked for everywhere: bank, employer, landlord, school. Prepaid plans need no credit check. Major banks have newcomer offers, often with no fees for the first year: bring your passport and immigration document.
First month Weeks 2 to 4
Find a free settlement organization
Government-funded organizations help newcomers for free: housing, jobs, language classes, paperwork. Many offer services in French.
Know your tenant rights
Lease, deposit, rent increases, repairs: each province has its own rules. Nova Scotia’s rules are explained on the official site below. Read your lease before signing and keep a copy.
Residential Tenancies Program ↗
If you are arriving with children
Enrol them in school by contacting the school board for your neighbourhood, with their ID and vaccination records. Also apply for the Canada Child Benefit: a tax-free monthly payment. Newcomers apply with form RC66.
Canada Revenue Agency — Canada Child Benefit ↗
Exchange your driver’s licence
In Nova Scotia, you can drive on your foreign licence for up to 180 days after settling. After that, you need a provincial licence. If your country has an exchange agreement, you will not need to take tests; otherwise, plan for a knowledge test and a road test. If your licence is not in English or French, a translation may be required.
Watch out for scams
Newcomers are frequent targets. The Canada Revenue Agency and immigration never ask for payment in gift cards, crypto or transfers to strangers, and never threaten deportation by phone. If in doubt, hang up and call the official number.
First three months Months 2 and 3
Apply for benefits and get ready for taxes
Apply for benefits with the Canada Revenue Agency: online form RC151 if you have no children, RC66 if you do. Then file a tax return every year, even with no income: that is what triggers your payments, including the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit.
Build your credit history
In Canada, your credit history matters for renting, car loans and better phone plans. A credit card, even with a small limit, paid in full each month is the simplest way to start.
Get tenant insurance
It is often required by the lease. For a few dollars a month, it covers your belongings and your liability.
Workers and students: watch your permit’s expiry date
Plan the renewal several months ahead to keep your status, your job and your health coverage.