Halifax city guide
For newcomers & families
Where the community is: Clayton Park and the area around Dalhousie and Saint Mary’s universities have a growing South Asian population.
Health coverage
Nova Scotia MSI health card
Register for MSI after you arrive.
Driver’s licence
Nova Scotia driver’s licence (Access Nova Scotia)
Exchange or test for a Nova Scotia licence.
Getting around
Schools
Halifax Regional Centre for Education
Public school is free for children of permanent residents and most work- and study-permit holders.
Free newcomer help
ISANS
ISANS (Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia)
Free settlement services help with jobs, English or French classes, housing and paperwork.
First steps in Canada
Apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Canada Child Benefit for families
Open a bank account and get a local phone number in week one.
Read the full newcomer checklist →
Festivals & events
Student associations and the local Hindu and Sikh communities host Diwali and Vaisakhi events.
Rules and programs change; always confirm on the official site before you apply.
Local directory
🍛 Indian restaurants
🛒 South Asian grocery stores
Some listing details come from © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL) and may be out of date. Own one of these businesses? Add or update your listing for free.
