Newcomers Hub

Download our brochure with key facts about British Columbia including visa types.

Here is the detailed guide how to do it while you are in Kazakhstan.

While you are in Kazakhstan do this to get this document.

Here is the guide how to do it.

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Below is the summary of most essential transportaion types in BC.

When you just arrived

So you've just landed in British Columbia and got COPR or student / work visa approved at YVR, what's next? We got you covered.
First of all - educate yourself about key tips and secrets to help you settle down confidently in this beautiful province.
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Transportation: Compass Card & Travel Tips
You most probably will use public transport first time, that is why you need to make sure you know how to do it.

What is the SkyTrain?

The SkyTrain is Vancouver’s rapid transit system, known for its reliability, speed, and convenience. It's primarily an elevated train system but includes some underground and ground-level tracks. Operated by TransLink, the SkyTrain is a key part of Metro Vancouver’s public transit network and serves thousands of commuters daily.

Lines and CoverageThe SkyTrain system consists of three main lines:

• Expo Line: Connects Waterfront Station in Downtown Vancouver to King George Station in Surrey and Production Way-University Station in Burnaby.Key Stops: Commercial-Broadway, Metrotown, and New Westminster.

• Millennium Line: Runs from VCC-Clark Station in Vancouver to Lafarge Lake-Douglas Station in Coquitlam.Key Stops: Brentwood Town Centre, Lougheed Town Centre, and Coquitlam Central. There is Evergreen Extension of this line connecting Coquitlam, Port Moody, and Burnaby to Vancouver.
  

• Canada Line: Links Downtown Vancouver to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Richmond.Key Stops: Oakridge-41st Avenue, Bridgeport, and Richmond-Brighouse.

• West Coast Express is NOT the part of Skytrain:
  It is a separate commuter rail service operated by TransLink that complements the SkyTrain. Runs between Waterfront Station in Downtown Vancouver and Mission City, serving communities like Port Moody, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, and Pitt Meadows.Operates during peak hours on weekdays only, primarily for commuters traveling into and out of Vancouver.
  

Upcoming Lines/ExtensionsMetro Vancouver's transit system is expanding, with new SkyTrain lines and extensions in progress:

• Broadway Subway Project (Millennium Line Extension)- Extends the Millennium Line westward from VCC-Clark to Arbutus Street in Vancouver.Expected completion: 2026.Will improve access to key areas, including the Broadway corridor.

• Surrey-Langley SkyTrain Extension (Fraser Highway)- Expands the Expo Line from King George Station to Langley City, covering communities along Fraser Highway.Expected completion: 2028. Discussions are underway for a future SkyTrain extension to UBC, which would further connect Vancouver’s west side and the university.
  

Map of Skytrain system:

Last but not least, your Compass card provides you with an access to SeaBus (if you live on North Vancouver)- Though not a SkyTrain line, the SeaBus connects Waterfront Station in Downtown Vancouver to Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver across Burrard Inlet. It integrates seamlessly with SkyTrain services.

Secret Tip: You can get unlimited evening travel (after 6 PM) and all-day travel on weekends with a DayPass.

‍Bike-Friendly City: Vancouver is known for bike-friendly routes. Invest in a second-hand bike for cost-effective, eco-friendly transport.

‍Car Sharing: Consider car-sharing services like Evo or Modo for flexible driving options without the costs of ownership. PS: you need BC driver licence, but you can drive with kazakhstani driving license up to 90 days from the date of arrival.

Getting Local Driving License: You need Class 7 (Novice License) or Class 5 (Full License) to drive car.
Here is the quide how to prepare for driving knowlege test (run by ICBC) and practical test.

TransLink provides an interactive system map that includes SkyTrain lines, stations, bus routes, and SeaBus terminals. You can access this interactive map here.

The SeaBus is a passenger-only ferry service that connects Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver to Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver. The crossing takes approximately 12 minutes, with vessels departing every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during off-peak times. The service operates daily, with reduced hours on weekends and holidays. For the latest schedules and information, visit TransLink's SeaBus page. You can find seabus schedules here.

TransLink offers a Trip Planner tool on their website where you can input your starting point and destination to receive detailed directions, including which buses or trains to take, transfer points, and estimated travel times. Access the Trip Planner here.

Traveling Between Islands in British Columbia with BC Ferries

‍BC Ferries is the primary transportation service connecting mainland British Columbia with Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and other coastal communities. Whether you're a resident commuting between islands or a visitor exploring BC’s stunning coastline, BC Ferries provides an essential link for both passengers and vehicles.

How BC Ferries Works
Routes and DestinationsThe most popular route connects Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Departure Bay (Nanaimo), which is a key gateway to Vancouver Island.Other major routes include Tsawwassen (near Vancouver) to Swartz Bay (Victoria) and Tsawwassen to Duke Point (Nanaimo).There are also routes serving smaller islands, such as Salt Spring, Gabriola, and the Gulf Islands.

Booking and SchedulesPassengers can walk on or drive a vehicle onto the ferry.While reservations are not mandatory for all routes, they are highly recommended, especially during peak travel times.You can check schedules and book tickets online at BC Ferries’ official website.
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BC Ferries operates a route between Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver and Departure Bay in Nanaimo. The crossing takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. As of June 1, 2024, the standard one-way fares are:

‍Passenger Fares (subjest to change, please check on website):

Adults (12-64 years): $17.20

Children (5-11 years): $8.60Children under 5: FreeSeniors (65+ years): Free from Monday to Thursday, excluding holidays

Vehicle Fares:
Standard vehicle (up to 20 feet): $57.50

Additional length over 20 feet: $6.50 per footFor the most current schedules and to make reservations, visit the BC Ferries website

Travel Duration:
- Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo: ~1 hour 40 minutes
- Tsawwassen to Victoria: ~1 hour 35 minutes
- Tsawwassen to Duke Point (Nanaimo): ~2 hours

Essential Links
Schedules & Reservations: BC Ferries Schedules
‍Fares & Pricing: BC Ferries Fares
‍Live Service Updates: Current Conditions

Start Small: Look for shared accommodations or basement suites, as these are often affordable and available in most areas.
‍Key Sites: Use Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and PadMapper for rentals.
‍Secret Tip: Always meet landlords in person and check the property to avoid scams

Build a credit score to secure better rental options later.Join community groups to hear about rental openings through word of mouth—many units never make it online!

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Creating a LinkedIn profile is crucial for newcomersto Canada for several reasons, especially when it comes to networking, jobsearching, and professional growth. Here’s why it matters:
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‍1. Building a Professional Network
Canada’s job market relies heavily on networking. Many jobs are not advertised publicly, and connections can help newcomers discover opportunities. By connecting with industry professionals, recruiters, and other newcomers, you can gain insights into the Canadian work culture.
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‍2. Enhancing Job Search
Many Canadian employers and recruiters search LinkedIn for potential candidates. A well-optimized profile increases visibility. It allows you to apply for jobs directly and showcase your skills beyond just a resume.
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‍3. Showcasing International Experience
Canadian  employers may not be familiar with companies outside Canada. LinkedIn helps present your experience professionally and credibly. You can add recommendations and endorsements from previous colleagues and managers, making your profile stronger.
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‍4. Personal Branding & Professional Image
A complete LinkedIn profile with a professional photo, detailed work history, and customized headline gives a strong first impression. It allows you to share posts, articles, and achievements to establish credibility in your industry.

‍5. Gaining Referrals & Recommendations
Many employers prefer candidates who come with referrals. Connecting with professionals in your field can increase your chances of getting a referral. Getting recommendations from past colleagues or supervisors helps validate your skills and experience.

‍6. Understanding the Canadian Job Market
By observing other professionals’ profiles in your industry, you can see how they present their skills, what certifications they have, and what job titles are common in Canada.

!!! Tips for a Strong LinkedInProfile as a Newcomer
      - Use a professional photo (avoid casual pictures).
      - Write a compelling headline (e.g., “Experienced IT System Administrator | Seeking Opportunities in Canada”).
      - Craft a strong summary highlighting your skills, experience, and career goals.
      - List all relevant work experience with detailed descriptions.
      - Engage actively by commenting on posts, sharing insights, and networking..

When searching for a job in Canada, start by tailoring your resume to Canadian standards and creating a strong LinkedIn profile.

Use job search websites like Indeed, Workopolis,and Job Bank, and consider networking through local professionalassociations and immigrant support organizations.

‍Volunteering or taking temporary jobs can alsohelp gain Canadian experience.

Additionally, researching if your profession requires certification or licensing will ensure a smoother transition into the workforce.

1. Engineers
  - In Kazakhstan, you can work as an engineer without a license.
  - In Canada, you must obtain a P.Eng (Professional Engineer) license through the provincial engineering association (e.g., Engineers and Geoscientists BC).
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‍2. Doctors, Nurses, and Pharmacists
   - In Kazakhstan, medical professionals can work after university and internship.
   - In Canada, they must validate their degree, pass exams (MCCQE for doctors, NCLEX-RN for nurses), and complete practical training.
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‍3. Teachers
 - In Kazakhstan, a university degree is enough to work as a teacher.
  - In Canada, a teaching certificate from the provincial regulatory body is required.

‍4. Electricians and Plumbers
  - In Kazakhstan, a college diploma is enough to work in these trades.
  - In Canada, workers need a Red Seal Certification and several years of apprenticeship.

‍5. Accountants (Chartered Professional Accountants – CPA)
 - In Kazakhstan, you can work as an accountant without certification.
  - In Canada, a CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant) designation is necessary for senior positions.

‍6. Lawyers (Lawyers, Notaries)
  - In Kazakhstan, law graduates can start practicing after university.
  - In Canada, they must pass the NCA (National Committee on Accreditation) exams and complete an internship.

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Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla, ut commodo diam libero vitae erat. Aenean faucibus nibh et justo cursus id rutrum lorem imperdiet. Nunc ut sem vitae risus tristique posuere.