[ First weeks ]

The Rendez-vous francophone has both an office that assists in immigration and a Service Canada bureau. The services are offered by an immigration agent at the “Assemblee communautaire Fransaskoise” or A.C.F. In addition, there are other English speaking reception centers to help the immigrants or newcomers.

Social insurance number or S.I.N : You must have a S.I.N number, to work in Canada or for use of governmental services.

Saskatchewan Health : It gives you and your family access to medical care covered by the Saskatchewan health care system.

Driver's license permit : You may use your valid driver's license issued from your country of origin for a period of 90 days. After this period, you must contact the Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) to obtain a Saskatchewan Driver's License.

Opening a bank account : You must inform yourself of the banking services that are offered to you before deciding which bank will best meet your needs.

Provincial programs : The Province of Saskatchewan offers support programs for families. The Saskatchewan Employment Supplement is a monthly payment which supplements the family income. Saskatchewan Child Benefit is a monthly support intended for low-income families. It may be granted for each child of less than 18 years. Family Heath Benefit is a financial support intended to help low-income families to reduce the health care costs for children. The Provincial Training Allowance is a financial support for adults who are registered in a recognized training program.

Federal programs : are offered to help the needs of families. Canadian Tax Credit is a monthly payment for families to assist with the needs of children less than 18 years of age as well as other specific supplements. The Goods and Services Tax Credit is a rebate on the tax paid on the products and services for lower income families. It is recommended that you contact the Federal Government in order to obtain detailed information. They can be contacted by telephone at 1-800-267-6999 or by internet at www.cra-arc.gc.ca

Budget : It is important to know that several products and services can appear more expensive to you here than in your country of origin and vice versa. The handbook guide has information which may be able to help you better understand.