Nanaimo - WelcomeBC

Chapter 1: Arriving in B.C. and the First Few Days
• Arriving in B.C.
• Help for newcomers
• To-do checklist
• Emergencies
• Safety tips
• Money
• Metric and imperial
measurements
• Shopping
• Social customs
• Telephones and
Internet
• Post office
• Transportation
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Refugee claimants
Refugee claimants are people who live in Canada, but
are waiting for a decision by the government to make
them permanent residents. They are not eligible for all
government benefits and programs for newcomers. For
example, some refugee claimants may not have regular
medical insurance (MSP). For more information, see
Chapter 4. Refugee claimants can apply for a work
permit and income assistance. Contact your local
immigrant settlement agency. They can help you apply
for government services.
The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) may
provide temporary health insurance to refugees,
protected persons, and refugee claimants and their
dependants until they are eligible for provincial or
territorial or private health plan coverage. Resettled
refugees who already have provincial or territorial
health insurance may receive extra health coverage
through the IFHP for one year from the date they
arrive in Canada. This includes emergency dental,
vision, and pharmaceutical care. Coverage may be
extended for people with special needs.
For more information, visit: www.cic.gc.ca/english/
information/applications/guides/5568ETOC.asp
Help for newcomers at
the airport
Most people immigrating to Canada
and settling in British Columbia arrive
at Vancouver International Airport. The
Community Airport Newcomers Network
(CANN) welcomes immigrants and refugees
who arrive at the Vancouver International
Airport. The service is located in the
Immigration Landing Room at the airport’s
International Arrival area. CANN provides
orientation and information for newcomers
in more than 20 languages.
Community Airport Newcomers Network
Telephone: 604 270-0077
E-mail: cann@success.bc.ca
www.success.bc.ca/cann
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