How to Apply for Important Documents
The following section will give you an overview of the forms that you need to fill out now that you have arrived in Canada.
Social Insurance Number (SIN)
The Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a nine-digit number used in the administration of various Canadian government programs. You will require a SIN to work in Canada or to receive government benefits.
For more information on how to apply for an SIN please click here.
For the office location of where to apply for your SIN please click here.
Driver's License
An Ontario driver's license is your proof of your privilege to drive. You must carry it with you whenever you drive. A newcomer to Ontario who holds a driver-license from another province or country is required to apply for an Ontario driver's licence within 60 days of taking up residence in the province.
For more information on Getting an Ontario Driver’s License please click here.
For information on how to apply for a driver’s license in Ontario please click here.
For more information on vehicle insurance please click here.
Health Card
The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) pays for basic medical services for Ontario residents. A resident of Ontario must have a health card to show that he or she is entitled to health care services paid for by OHIP. As a newcomer to Ontario you should apply for OHIP as soon as you arrive. You must apply for OHIP in person at an OHIP office. You will be asked to provide original documents that prove your immigration status, residency and identity.
Please note: It takes approximately three months for you to receive your OHIP card and be covered by OHIP. It is recommended that you obtain private health insurance to cover this three month waiting period.
You MUST purchase private health insurance within 5 days of arriving in Ontario.
For more information about OHIP and how to purchase private health insurance please click here.
All newcomers to Ontario must visit an OHIP office. Please click here for the office closest to you.
The Windsor Office is located at:
400 City Hall Square East, Suite 205
(corner of McDougall and University Avenue, beside City Hall)
Windsor, Ontario
N9A 7K6
The hours of operation are:
Monday through Friday
8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
For more information call the ministry INFOline at 1-866-532-3161 (Toll-free in Ontario only), TTY 1-800-387-5559. The INFOline operates 8:30am - 5:00pm
Permanent Immigration
For information on how to apply to become a Canadian Citizen please click here.
For Canadian Citizen Application Forms please click here.
Bank Account
For information on how to open a bank account please click here.
The following major banks offer special services for new Canadians. Click on the links below to view their products and services for newcomers.
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