Immigrant and newcomer women experiencing domestic violence in Vancouver face unique barriers—language obstacles, unfamiliarity with Canadian systems, immigration concerns, and cultural pressures. Yet dedicated, culturally sensitive services exist to help you navigate these challenges and find safety, support, and empowerment.

• Language Barriers: Difficulty expressing needs and understanding available services.
• Immigration Concerns: Fear that reporting abuse will affect residency, sponsorship, or deportation risk.
• Lack of Knowledge of Rights: Uncertainty about Canadian legal protections and processes.
• Cultural Isolation: Disconnection from familiar support networks and customs.
• Financial Dependence: Economic reliance on a partner can hinder leaving.
• Fear of Deportation: Worry that seeking help may jeopardize family status.

• Overview: Settlement agency offering multilingual referrals, legal orientation, and domestic violence support.
• Access: Visit issbc.org or call their central intake line to learn about specialized DV programs.

• Overview: Provides settlement, employment, language training, and family violence support in multiple languages.
• Access: Check mosaicbc.org for local office contact information and DV workshop schedules.

• Overview: Police-linked Victim Services units offer crisis counselling and CVAP funding to cover therapy, legal fees, and safety planning.
• Access: Call VictimLink BC at 1-800-563-0808 to connect with your local unit and apply for CVAP assistance.

• Overview: Confidential safe housing with interpreters, cultural liaisons, and outreach services for immigrant women.
• Access: Dial 2-1-1 Ontario (BC directory available online) or request a referral via VictimLink BC.

• Overview: Provides legal representation for eligible survivors in family law matters and some immigration issues.
• Access: Visit legalaid.bc.ca to complete a financial eligibility assessment and apply for a certificate.

• Overview: Ethno-specific centres and cultural associations offer peer support, counselling, and advocacy sensitive to community norms.
• Access: Identify relevant organizations—e.g., South Asian Women’s Centre, Chinese Women’s Association—via online directories or settlement agency referrals.

• Overview: Specialized VPD unit liaises with diverse communities, provides safety information, and connects survivors with resources.
• Access: Call the VPD non-emergency line at 604-717-3321 or inquire about Diversity Section support when contacting 911 in an emergency.

• Legal Protections: Canadian law safeguards all residents; domestic violence is a criminal offence regardless of status.
• Immigration Remedies: You may qualify for a Temporary Resident Permit or Humanitarian and Compassionate application—seek an immigration lawyer for advice.
• Confidentiality: All reputable services maintain privacy; your information won’t be shared without consent, except in life-threatening scenarios.
• Interpreter Services: Many agencies provide free interpretation; request language support when you call.

1. Contact ISSofBC or MOSAIC for a culturally sensitive intake and referral.
2. Dial VictimLink BC (1-800-563-0808) to access CVAP, crisis counselling, and shelter referrals.
3. Apply for Legal Aid BC if you need court representation or immigration legal support.
4. Reach out to VPD’s Diversity Section if you require police assistance tailored to your community’s needs.

Your safety and well-being are paramount. Vancouver’s multicultural support network stands ready to help you navigate domestic violence resources, regardless of your immigration status or background.