New Brunswick is the place to live
By JORGE GERONIMO-VANSLYKE
Many immigrants tend to gravitate towards bigger cities when choosing a place to live mainly due to economic reasons. There is much to be said, however, for choosing the less travelled path. Some would prefer smaller places where they feel it's best to raise a family and still be able to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of nature.
New Brunswick is proud to offer all of the above choices within the province. It has a growing economy and many immigrants are coming and staying because the province offers diverse population group with various active ethnic representation. And most importantly, it is a great place to raise a family.
To learn more about the beautiful places in the province please visit Tourism New Brunswick.
Settling in New Brunswick
Whether we are from Asia or Europe or Africa, wherever we may be from, we face the same questions and struggles as we settle to our new life, our new environment, most especially our new country. If you happen to decide to come and live in New Brunswick, here are some basic information that you will need.
Finding a place to stay
Renting an apartment usually requires a year lease. One month deposit and the first month's rent is paid upfront and apartments are usually not furnished. Newspapers and the Yellow Pages have information on buildings for rent / realtors.
Utilities
Water is usually included in your rent but others include more.
For your internet / home phone, there are two major service providers. You can check information on Aliant or Rogers.
Mobile phones have more service providers. You have to pay a basic fee plus systems access fee including 911. Every other feature requires extra payment including caller ID.
As for electricity, NB Power services the province. You are required to pay a deposit and installation / connection fee.
You can check the following websites:
Getting your SIN Number
Your Social Insurance Number is a must for every landed immigrant. This is your reference point and applying for other documents require this. Be careful, though, in giving your SIN number to avoid identity theft. You can get all the information at Service New Brusnswick.
Getting your Health Card
This is another piece of document that you should have at all times. There is a waiting period of three months before you can be covered by your health card. You can go directly to the nearest Service New Brunswick office. YOu can also check the following site for more information including the application form at Government of New Brunswick website.
Prescription Drugs
Health care is free for citizens and permanent residents of Canada. Prescription Drugs, however, are not free, so you might want to avail of insurance for that.
The most known insurance provider for prescription drugs is Medavie Blue Cross.
Sending and Receiving Money
Western Union is still the most popular way of sending money and it's everywhere in New Brunswick. You can visit their site for the exact location that is most convenient for you:
