Domestic Violence Resources for Newcomers in Canada

Understanding Domestic Violence in Canada

Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence or family violence, is a pattern of behaviour used by one person to gain power and control over another person in a relationship. In Canada, domestic violence is a criminal offence, and the law protects everyone within the country's borders, regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. This is an important fact for newcomers to understand: you do not need to be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to receive protection and support.

Many newcomers face additional barriers when dealing with domestic violence. Language challenges, unfamiliarity with the Canadian legal system, fear of deportation, isolation from family and community support networks, and financial dependence on a spouse or partner can all make it harder to seek help. This guide is designed to help you understand the resources available to you and how to access them safely.

The Government of Canada and provincial governments have developed extensive support systems for people experiencing domestic violence. These services are available to everyone, including newcomers to Canada, temporary residents, refugee claimants, and people without status. Understanding your rights and the help available is the first step toward safety.

Crisis Helplines and Immediate Support

If you are in immediate danger, always call 911 first. Police in Canada are trained to respond to domestic violence calls, and they will help you regardless of your immigration status. You do not need to worry about being asked about your status when calling for emergency help.

VictimLink BC is a toll-free, confidential, multilingual telephone service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can reach VictimLink BC at 1-800-563-0808. This service provides information and referral services to all victims of crime in British Columbia, including victims of family and sexual violence. Interpretation is available in more than 150 languages through a third-party interpretation service, making it accessible to newcomers who may not yet be comfortable communicating in English or French.

The Department of Justice Canada maintains a directory of family violence resources across all provinces and territories. You can also contact the Assaulted Women's Helpline at 1-866-863-0511 (available in many languages) or Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 if children are involved.

What Happens When You Call a Crisis Line

When you call a crisis helpline like VictimLink BC, a trained counsellor will speak with you confidentially. They will assess your immediate safety, help you develop a safety plan, provide information about local shelters and services, and connect you with legal and community resources. Everything you share is confidential, and you can choose to remain anonymous if you wish.

Many newcomers worry that calling a crisis line will result in their children being apprehended by child protection services. It is important to know that child protection agencies in Canada focus on the safety of children. If you are experiencing domestic violence and seeking help, this demonstrates that you are taking steps to protect yourself and your children. Calling for help is viewed positively, not negatively.

Emergency Shelters and Transition Houses

Emergency shelters and transition houses provide safe, temporary housing for people fleeing domestic violence. These facilities offer a range of services including a safe place to stay, meals, counselling, children's programs, help with finding longer-term housing, and referrals to legal and settlement services. In British Columbia, there are more than 60 transition houses and safe homes across the province.

To find a shelter near you, call VictimLink BC at 1-800-563-0808, or visit the BC Government's victim services directory. Shelters operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but staff will work with you to find available space. If the nearest shelter is full, they will help connect you with other options, including hotel placements funded through victim assistance programs.

What to Expect at a Shelter

When you arrive at a transition house, staff will conduct an intake assessment to understand your needs and safety concerns. You will be provided with a private room (or shared space depending on availability), meals, toiletries, and clothing if needed. Most shelters allow stays of 30 days, with the possibility of extension. During your stay, you will have access to support workers who can help you navigate the legal system, apply for income assistance, find permanent housing, and connect with settlement services for newcomers.

Children are welcome at transition houses, and many have specialized children's counsellors and programs to help young people process their experiences. Shelters understand that leaving a violent situation is difficult, and they provide a non-judgmental, supportive environment.

Protection Orders and the Legal System

Canada's legal system offers several types of protection orders to keep you safe from an abusive partner. Understanding these options can help you make informed decisions about your safety.

A Peace Bond (under Section 810 of the Criminal Code) is a court order that requires the abusive person to keep the peace and follow specific conditions, such as staying away from you and your home. You can apply for a peace bond through the criminal court system, and a victim services worker can help you with the application process.

In British Columbia, you can also apply for a Protection Order under the Family Law Act. This order can prohibit your partner from contacting you, attending at your home or workplace, and following you. A protection order can be obtained quickly, sometimes within the same day in urgent situations, through BC Provincial Court or Supreme Court.

How to Apply for a Protection Order

To apply for a protection order in BC, you can visit your local courthouse and speak with the registry staff, who can provide you with the necessary forms. Many courthouses have Family Justice Counsellors who can assist you with the paperwork. You do not need a lawyer to apply for a protection order, although having legal representation can be helpful. Legal Aid BC may be able to provide you with a lawyer if you cannot afford one, particularly in cases involving family violence.

The legal aid and free legal services guide on our blog provides more information about accessing legal help at no cost. You can also visit our family law guide for more details on how the family court system works in Canada.

Immigration Status Protections

One of the biggest fears newcomers face when dealing with domestic violence is the impact on their immigration status. It is critical to know that Canadian law provides protections for people in this situation.

If you are a sponsored spouse or partner experiencing domestic violence, you should know that your abuser cannot have your immigration status revoked. Once you have permanent residence, your status does not depend on your relationship with your sponsor. If you are still in the process of being sponsored and your relationship breaks down due to abuse, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has provisions to consider your situation on humanitarian and compassionate grounds.

Temporary Resident Permits for Victims of Family Violence

If you do not have valid immigration status in Canada and are a victim of family violence, you may be eligible for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP). This special permit allows victims of family violence to remain in Canada temporarily while they stabilize their situation. The TRP provides access to the Interim Federal Health Program, which covers basic medical care, and may also allow you to obtain a work permit.

To apply for a TRP, you can contact IRCC directly or work with a settlement organization that has experience with immigration matters. Many organizations that serve newcomers, such as settlement agencies listed in our guide, can help you navigate this process.

Services for Children Affected by Domestic Violence

Children who witness or experience domestic violence need specialized support. In Canada, there are many services available to help children heal and recover from the effects of family violence.

The BC Ministry of Children and Family Development provides child protection services, but it also funds a range of support programs for children who have been exposed to violence. These include individual and group counselling, play therapy for younger children, and school-based support programs. Children's programs at transition houses are another important resource.

Understanding Child Protection Services

Many newcomers are understandably concerned about the role of child protection services. In BC, the primary goal of the Ministry of Children and Family Development is to support families and keep children safe. If you are a victim of domestic violence and seeking help, child protection workers will generally work with you as the non-offending parent to develop a safety plan that keeps your children in your care.

If a report is made to child protection services, a social worker will assess the situation to determine whether the children are safe. In most cases involving domestic violence, the focus will be on ensuring that you have the support and resources you need to protect yourself and your children. This may include referrals to counselling, shelter, financial assistance, and legal services.

Financial Support and Practical Help

Leaving a violent relationship often means facing financial challenges. There are several programs available to help you become financially independent. In BC, you can apply for income assistance (welfare) through the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. If you are leaving an abusive situation, your application may be processed on an expedited basis.

The Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP) in BC provides financial benefits to victims of violent crime, including domestic violence. Benefits can cover counselling, medical expenses, income support, and other costs related to the crime. You can learn more about CVAP by visiting the BC government website or speaking with a victim services worker.

Building a New Life

Rebuilding your life after domestic violence takes time, but there are many resources available to support you on this journey. Settlement agencies across Canada offer specialized programs for newcomers, including language training, employment support, and community connections. Visit our employment guide for newcomers for information about finding work, and check our housing guide for help finding a safe, permanent home.

Key Contacts and Resources

• Emergency: Call 911
• VictimLink BC: 1-800-563-0808 (24/7, multilingual)
• Assaulted Women's Helpline: 1-866-863-0511
• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
• Legal Aid BC: 1-866-577-2525 | legalaid.bc.ca
• IRCC: 1-888-242-2100 | canada.ca/immigration
• BC Crime Victim Assistance Program: 1-866-660-3888
• BC 211: Dial 2-1-1 for community and social service referrals

You Deserve Safety and Support

No one deserves to live in fear. Domestic violence is never acceptable, and it is never the fault of the person being abused. As a newcomer to Canada, you have the same rights to safety and protection as every other person in this country. There are people and organizations ready to help you, and reaching out is a sign of courage and strength.

WelcomeAide is here to support you through every step of your settlement journey, including difficult situations like domestic violence. Our AI Newcomer Navigator can help you find local resources, answer your questions in your language, and connect you with the support you need. Explore our blog for more newcomer guides, learn about our mission, or see how to get involved in supporting newcomer communities across Canada.