Conditions for Staying in Canada
Students may study here for up to a year on Student Visas - this will not lead to a permanent residence status. Students all must return home after their visas expire. They may also work in Canada if they apply for a work visa. Read Work Visa FAQ's here.

If you visit Canada, this will not lead to a permanent residence status.

If you obtain a work Visa, this will not lead to a permanent residence status after the visa expires. You may prolong it for a few more months, but eventually, you will have to return home.

The only way to come to Canada to live is to apply for permanent residence.

Immigration to British Columbia

Citizenship and Immigration Canada
- For all types of visitors looking for documents
- Site has the information and downloadable forms
- Official, government website

After Immigration

Read ShalomBC's guide to the general immigration process (see link below).

Read Steps After Arrival Page (see link below).
Includes:
- SIN Card
- Medical Services Plan (MPS)
- Extended Medical Coverage
- Bank Account
- Credit Card
- Driver's License
- Vehicle Insurance
- Cell Phone
- Driver's license
- Medical coverage. 

Keep in mind that this information applies to residents immigrating to Vancouver - most of these services do not apply for visitors.

Life In BC

British Columbia Newcomers’ Guide to Resources and Service
We strongly recommend reading this site to get an idea about the various aspects of daily life in British Columbia. You can either download it online or come in to our office to pick up a free copy.

More information about British Columbia can be found at the WelcomeBC website.

If you are looking for resources on Jewish organizations and services, Shalom BC has its own publication, The Guide to Jewish Life in British Columbia. Download the pdf here. You can refer to this later under the drop-down section "Jewish Vancouver."

Tourism

If you are a tourist, refer to the Visiting Canada section of the CIC website for instructions on the process. For a guide on things to do, check out our activities page. Vancouver dot travel also has a helpful activity guide