Guidepost

Free moving guide — NS

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

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

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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.

Nova Scotia-specific agencies

MSI (Medical Services Insurance)Service Nova Scotia

Health card

Nova Scotia's MSI health card address is updated through Service Nova Scotia (formerly Access Nova Scotia) -- online or at a service centre.

novascotia.ca

Driver's licence + vehicle registrationService Nova Scotia

Separate

Driver's licences and vehicle registrations are handled by Service Nova Scotia. Auto insurance in NS is private.

novascotia.ca

Nova Scotia 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 An outdated bank address can delay card replacements and statements.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 Nova Scotia?
Your Nova Scotia health card (MSI (Medical Services Insurance)) address is updated through Service Nova Scotia. Nova Scotia's MSI health card address is updated through Service Nova Scotia (formerly Access Nova Scotia) -- online or at a service centre.
Where do I update my driver's licence when I move in Nova Scotia?
Driver's licences and vehicle registrations are handled by Service Nova Scotia. Auto insurance in NS is 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 Nova Scotia, contact Service Nova Scotia promptly after your move.

Moving also means paperwork for…

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