Relocation Needs

Relocating to a new country or province is a very important stage in the journey to practice in BC.

There are many things to think about when you decide to move to another location:

  • Connect with the Division of Family Practice in your new community to get support and advice on housing, transportation, childcare, schools, and other necessities.
  • Learn as much as possible about the community you are interested in relocating to before you make the decision to move.
  • If possible, take the time to visit the community to become familiar with the people, the neighbourhoods, schools, practice opportunities and other offerings to make sure it is a community you would be comfortable living in for the long term.
  • If you have accepted a job offer make sure that you have a signed contract with a firm start date, hours of work, and expectations to help you to plan your move.
  • Keep in touch, regularly, with key people at the practice.
    • Tell them when you will be arriving in the new community.
    • Let them know what supports you will need.
  • Add up all of the costs to relocate to a new community.
  • Check in with other support organizations AIMG.
  • Find out whether the community you are relocating to offers a relocation allowance.

Questions to ask yourself

  • Will you be near to friends and/or family in your new community? Is this important?
  • Have you met the immigration requirements?
  • Do you have a back-up plan if your relocation is delayed?
  • How will you support your and your family when you relocate and are preparing to apply to residency?
  • If you are leaving a practice before relocating, who will take care of your patients?