If you’re in New Westminster and need help with federal government programs, the Service Canada Centre is your one-stop spot. It offers in-person support for everything from Employment Insurance to Social Insurance Numbers. Open weekdays from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, it’s located at 201-620 Royal Avenue, right in the heart of the city.
What Services Does Service Canada New Westminster Offer?
Service Canada New Westminster provides access to key federal programs including Employment Insurance (EI), Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Old Age Security (OAS), Social Insurance Numbers (SIN), and Veterans Affairs services. It also processes documents like Records of Employment (ROE) and tax slips. The centre acts as a Passport Receiving Agent, accepting passport applications for processing.
This centre supports seniors, families, workers, employers, and veterans. On-site computers and printers give you access to government websites like Job Bank and My Service Canada Account. If you need help with language or special support, you can request it at the centre. Many services are also available online or by phone, but visiting in person can speed things up for complex cases.
Where Is Service Canada New Westminster Located?
The centre is at 201-620 Royal Avenue, New Westminster, BC, V3M 1J2. It’s open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, except on holidays like Victoria Day. You can call them at 1-800-O-CANADA (1-800-622-6232) or use TTY services at 1-800-926-9105 if you have hearing difficulties.
How Can You Get There?
Getting to the centre is easy whether you drive or use public transit. The nearest SkyTrain stop is Columbia Station, just a 4-minute walk away. Several bus routes stop nearby, including 101, 106, 123, 321, and 640. Bus stops like 4th St @ Agnes St and 6th St @ Royal Ave are just minutes on foot.
If you rely on transit apps, Moovit is a handy tool to plan your trip with live updates on schedules and routes. The first SkyTrain on the Expo Line arrives near the centre around 5:10 am, and the last one runs until after 1:45 am, giving you plenty of options.
Why Visit the Centre in Person?
Visiting the Service Canada Centre in New Westminster helps you handle official documents, get personal assistance, and resolve issues faster than online or phone services alone. For example, applying for a Social Insurance Number or submitting a passport application often requires in-person verification. If your EI claim needs clarification or your pension questions are complex, face-to-face support can save time.
Plus, the centre is wheelchair accessible and offers on-site computers if you don’t have internet at home. For newcomers or those unfamiliar with government websites, staff can guide you through the process.
What Should You Bring?
Bring government-issued photo ID and any documents related to your request. For passport applications, bring completed forms and photos that meet requirements. If applying for EI or CPP, bring your Records of Employment or other proof. Checking the Service Canada website before your visit helps avoid surprises.
Tips to Make Your Visit Smooth
- Arrive early to avoid long lines.
- Organize your documents beforehand.
- Use on-site computers if needed.
- Ask for language support if you need it.
- Check for holiday closures before heading out.
Final Words
If you’re in New Westminster and need federal services, the Service Canada Centre on Royal Avenue is a practical place to visit. Whether it’s getting your SIN, applying for EI, or submitting a passport application, the centre offers direct support. It’s like having a government office right in your backyard, ready to help you get things done.
