Posted to Nova Scotia? Start Here

Nova Scotia is proud to support Canadian Armed Forces members and families who live here or are relocating due to posting.

Being posted comes with a lot of moving parts. This page brings together CAF relocation requirements, Military Family Resources Centres and Government of Nova Scotia programs, so you know what to do first, what comes next and where to get help.

Step 1: Start with CAF relocation (required)

Your move is supported through the CAF Relocation Program, administered by Brookfield Global Relocation Services (BGRS) and governed by the CAF Relocation Directive. These steps are required before most other relocation tasks.

CAF relocations resources

Start here: open your CAF relocation file.

Next step: review what’s covered under the CAF Relocation Directive.

Step 2: Connect with a Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC)

MFRC’s are the front door for military family support. They offer relocation help, spousal/partner employment support, child and youth programs, and community connections.

MFRC’s in Nova Scotia

Start here: connect with your local MFRC.

Next step: ask about relocation and employment supports.

Step 3: Health care for families in Nova Scotia

CAF spouses and dependants can access Nova Scotia health coverage (MSI) once residency is established. The usual waiting period is waived for military families.

Healthcare setup

Other provincial health resources

Start here: confirm MSI eligibility and waiver.

Next step: apply for a Health Card and register for primary care.

Step 4: IDs, driver’s licence and address updates

Once you arrive, you may need to update your address and complete driver and vehicle requirements. Many services are available online.

Driver and ID services

Start here: review RMV requirements.

Next step: update your address online.

Step 5: School and childcare

If you’re arriving with children, these resources explain school registration, early learning and licensed childcare in Nova Scotia.

School and education

Childcare and early learning

Start here: register your child for school.

Next step: search for licensed childcare.

Step 6: Employment and labour mobility (spouses and partners)

Nova Scotia offers employment services, adult learning and labour-mobility supports to help spouses and partners reconnect to work after a posting.

Employment services

Labour mobility and credential recognition

Start here: connect with Nova Scotia Works.

Next step: check if your occupation is regulated.

Step 7: Need help now?

If you’re not sure where to turn, these services can connect you to support.

Quick help

Military Relations in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia has a proud history of supporting Canada's military community, and that commitment continues today through the province's Military Relations initiative.

Nova Scotia was the first province in Canada to appoint a Minister responsible for Military Relations. This leadership reflects the important role military members, veterans, and their families play in our communities and across public life. Since the position was established in 2006, the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs has provided dedicated support for this work.

Military Relations focuses on building and maintaining strong, respectful relationships with key partners, including the Department of National Defence, the Canadian Armed Forces, Veterans Affairs Canada, and regional military, veteran, and defence related organizations. This helps ensure military and veteran perspectives are understood and considered across provincial government.

Through this work, Nova Scotia also supports a defence sector that contributes to innovation, skilled employment, and economic growth - while continuing to play an important role in Canada's defence and security.