Update Your Address Everywhere
Description
In Canada, your mail is the official way the government contacts you. If your address is wrong, you will miss tax refunds, ID cards, and critical legal notices. You are legally required to notify ICBC of an address change within 10 days.
In person
N/A
Online
30–40 min
to update all accounts
What to do
1.
Use AddressChangeBC (online) to update your BC Services Card and MSP details in one go
2.
Log into your CRA My Account and update your address separately (essential for benefits)
3.
Update your address in your Banking App and with your Mobile Provider
4.
Inform your employer's HR department or your School Registrar of your new permanent address
5.
Update your Tenant Insurance policy — your premium is tied to your specific postal code
6.
Submit a 'Change of Address' form to IRCC online if you have any pending permit applications
Warnings
The 10-Day ICBC Rule
- In BC, you MUST update the address on your ID/Licence within 10 days of moving
- It's free and done online; ICBC will mail you a sticker for the back of your card
- Police can fine you ($100+) if they see you've moved but haven't updated your ID
CRA is a separate system
- Updating your address with the BC Government does NOT update it with the CRA (Taxes)
- Missing a CRA letter can lead to your GST/Groceries benefits being stopped
- Always double-check your CRA profile manually after any move
Tips
Canada Post Mail Forwarding
If you've moved often, pay for 'Mail Forwarding' at Canada Post (from about $112 for 4 months, cheaper online than in person). They will intercept and redirect any mail from your old address to your new one automatically.
Medical Services Plan (MSP)
AddressChangeBC is the only reliable way to update MSP online. Since your health letters are sent by mail, a wrong address could lead to your coverage being suspended.