Check if you are eligible:
- You must be at least 12 years old.
- You must have a valid work permit.
- You must provide original documents proving your identity, work-authorized immigration status, and age.
Gather the required documents:
- A passport or other government-issued ID document.
- Your work permit.
- A birth certificate or other document proving your age.
- A document proving your work-authorized immigration status (e.g., a visa, study permit, or permanent resident card).
Apply for a SIN online, in person at a Service Canada Centre, or by mail:
- You can apply online at the Service Canada website: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/sin/apply.html.
- You can apply in person at a Service Canada Centre.
- You can apply by mail by sending your application and documents to the address on the Service Canada website.
Wait for your SIN to be processed:
- It will take about 2 weeks to process your application.
- You will receive your SIN card in the mail.
Choose a bank:
- There are many banks in Vancouver, so you will need to choose one that meets your needs. Some factors to consider include the bank's location, fees, and services offered.
Gather the required documents:
- A passport or other government-issued ID document.
- Your work permit.
- A document proving your address in Vancouver (e.g., a lease agreement, utility bill, or driver's license).
Visit the bank in person:
- It is best to visit the bank in person to open a checking account. This will allow you to speak to a banker and answer any questions you may have.
Complete the application form:
- The bank will provide you with an application form to complete. Be sure to read the form carefully and provide accurate information.
Provide the required documents:
- As mentioned earlier, you will need to provide the bank with original documents proving your identity, work-authorized immigration status, and address.
Sign the account opening documents:
- Once the bank has reviewed your application and documents, you will need to sign the account opening documents.
Receive your debit card and cheque book:
- The bank will give you your debit card and cheque book at the time of account opening.
Check if you are eligible:
- You must be at least 16 years old.
- You must have a valid foreign driver's license.
- You must have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
- You must pass a knowledge test and a road test.
Book a knowledge test appointment:
- You can book a knowledge test appointment online or by calling ICBC.
Take the knowledge test:
- The knowledge test is a multiple-choice test that tests your knowledge of the rules of the road in British Columbia. You need to score at least 80% to pass the test.
Book a road test appointment:
- If you pass the knowledge test, you will need to book a road test. The road test will test your driving skills. You need to pass the road test to get a driver's license in Vancouver BC.
Take the road test:
- The road test will take about 30 minutes. You will be tested on your ability to control the vehicle, obey traffic laws, and make safe driving decisions.
Receive your driver's license:
- If you pass the road test, you will be issued a driver's license. Your driver's license will be valid for 5 years.
Banks that offer foreign checking accounts in Vancouver BC
These banks offer checking accounts that are specifically designed for foreign workers. They typically have lower fees and more features than traditional checking accounts. To open a foreign checking account, you will need to provide the bank with proof of your identity, work authorization, and address in Vancouver.