ID Cards

British Columbia Identity Card and BC Service Card

BC ID and BC Service cards are different

You can apply for a BC ID at ICBC office at $35

You need a BC Services Card to access provincial government services. It serves as your health care card, and you can use it when you need photo ID. You can also choose to have your BC Services Card combined with your B.C. driver’s licence, providing you with one convenient card for both purposes.

There is no fee to get a BC Services Card. However, if you’re combining your BC Services Card with your driver’s licence, the fees that apply to the regular driver’s licence renewal still apply.

To receive a BC Services Card, you must be a B.C. resident. Check out the residency requirements.

Apply for a BC Services Card. 

Social Insurance Number (SIN)

You can apply for a Social Insurance Number when you arrive in Canada. There is no fee for a new Social Insurance Number card, but there is a fee to replace a lost card.

To apply for a Social Insurance Number, visit your local Service Canada office. You may also apply by mail, although this method takes longer.

Parents and legal guardians can apply for a Social Insurance Number for their child. Children 12 years of age or older may apply for their own Social Insurance Number. Parents of a new baby can apply for a Social Insurance Number, a birth certificate and other services with one application.

Learn how to register a birth and apply for a Social Insurance Number through the B.C. Vital Statistics application program.

You will be asked for your Social Insurance Number when you get a job. Your employer will deduct taxes and employment insurance premiums from your pay and send it to the federal government for you. You and your children will need a Social Insurance Number to be able to use some government programs. Do NOT share your Social Insurance Number. It cannot legally be used by anyone else.

Read more about Social Insurance Numbers.

General Q&A:

Where to get BC ID?

BC ID is issued at all ICBC office. (Search Google maps or iOS maps for nearest locations)

How much it costs?

$35 (one time)

What is the processing time?

Usually 2-3 weeks

Where to get SIN?

SIN is issued at Service Canada Center. (Search Google maps or iOS maps for nearest locations)

How much does it cost?

$0 its free. Usually, they issue within 1 - 2 hours

Do you require a work permit to get SIN?

No, you can get your SIN with your study permit as well.

What is the general time to get a GIC money?

If your GIC is with Canada bank then usually it takes 2 - 5 business days after Canada bank account opening.

Your first payment would be generally $2000 and $680 monthly or according to your GIC schedule.

If you are having other country's GIC account then you need to activate your account by proving an address proof. If you don't have a local address proof, then Canada Post at downtown can verify your identity with your visa and study permit without the need of local ID.

SIM Card:

It depends on what you use. Mobile data, International calling, international texting, local calling and roaming.

Usually, the plans available from $10 to $135 depends on your preference.

General Networks: Chatr, Virgin, Bell, Telus, Rogers, Freedom

Note: Write your questions in the comments