Guidepost

Free moving guide — AB

Moving in Alberta? Here's everyone you need to notify.

A complete change-of-address checklist for Alberta residents — federal agencies, Alberta-specific programs, and the details that matter for your province.

Alberta-specific note

AB OUTLIER: Driver's licences and vehicle registrations are handled by private registry agents, not a government office -- there is no single provincial portal.

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Do these first (time-sensitive)

1. Canada Post mail forwarding

Set up mail forwarding immediately so you don't miss bills, government notices, or CRA correspondence. Canada Post offers forwarding starting at $59 (individual, 4 months). Visit canadapost.ca to set up forwarding online.

2. Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

Update your address with the CRA as soon as possible after moving. Your CRA address controls:

  • • Where your tax refund cheque is mailed (if not on direct deposit)
  • • Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payments
  • • GST/HST credit payments
  • • Important CRA notices and correspondence

Update online via My Account at canada.ca, by phone at 1-800-959-8281, or on your next tax return.

Alberta-specific agencies

AHCIPAlberta Health

Health card

Alberta's Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) card address is updated through Alberta Health online or by phone.

alberta.ca/ahcip

Driver's licence + vehicle registrationPrivate registry agents

Separate

Alberta is unique: driver's licences and vehicle registrations are handled by private registry agents -- not a government office. Search for an authorized registry agent in your area through alberta.ca. Auto insurance is also private.

alberta.ca

Alberta uses private auto insurance. Contact your insurer directly to update your policy address.

Universal checklist — same for every province

Service Canada

Update EI, CPP, or OAS address through My Service Canada Account (mysca.ca). Apply for EI immediately if you were recently terminated.

Elections Canada

Update your voter registration at elections.ca. You can also update on election day, but doing it in advance is faster.

Employer / HR / payroll

Notify your payroll department so T4s and pay stubs go to your correct address. If you've changed provinces, tell HR -- provincial income tax withholding rates differ.

Banks and credit cards

Update your address with all financial institutions. Most allow this online or through their app. An outdated bank address can delay card replacements and statements.

Investment accounts (RRSP, TFSA, RESP)

Investment institutions often hold address separately from your bank. Update each separately.

Home or tenant insurance

Your policy is tied to a specific address. Contact your insurer before or immediately after the move -- coverage may lapse if you delay.

Doctor, dentist, and pharmacy

Notify your healthcare providers. If you're switching provinces, you may need to re-register for provincial health coverage -- confirm with your new province's health authority.

Subscriptions and deliveries

Update billing and shipping addresses for Amazon, Netflix, Spotify, meal kits, and any recurring deliveries. Canada Post forwarding will catch most mail but not always packages.

Passport: Canadian passports do not store your home address. No update needed with Passport Canada when you move.

Common questions

Where do I update my health card address in Alberta?
Your Alberta health card (AHCIP) address is updated through Alberta Health. Alberta's Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) card address is updated through Alberta Health online or by phone.
Where do I update my driver's licence when I move in Alberta?
Alberta is unique: driver's licences and vehicle registrations are handled by private registry agents -- not a government office. Search for an authorized registry agent in your area through alberta.ca. Auto insurance is also private.
Do I need to update my Canadian passport when I move?
No. Canadian passports do not contain your home address, so there is no requirement to notify Passport Canada when you change addresses.
How long do I have to update my driver's licence after moving?
Most provinces require you to update your driver's licence address within 6 days to several weeks of a change of address -- the exact window varies by province. In Alberta, contact Private registry agents promptly after your move.

Moving also means paperwork for…

Guidepost is not a law firm. This guide is for general information only. Full disclaimer