Indian status
Find out about registration under the Indian Act and status card applications, the Indian Register and First Nation membership or citizenship.
Potential mailing delays
Due to a potential labour disruption at Canada Post, there may be mailing delays related to registration and secure status card applications.
During the labour disruption, applicants who may wish to submit their applications for both registration or status cards are encouraged to come in person.
First Nations Health Authority Cybersecurity Incident
In May 2024, the BC First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) was the target of a cybersecurity incident that may have impacted some people's personal information. Persons registered under the Indian Act who live or who have recently lived in BC, or who belong to a First Nation located in BC, should refer to the FNHA's Cybersecurity Incident website for further information.
Use of the term "Indian"
Many Indigenous people in Canada prefer not to describe themselves as "Indians" and view this term as rooted in colonialism and racism. Under the Indian Act, the precise legal meaning of the term "Indian" refers to First Nations persons who are entitled to registration.
Prepare for an upcoming consultation
Prepare for discussions on addressing remaining inequities in registration and membership. Visit The Collaborative Process on the Second-Generation Cut-off and Section 10 Voting Thresholds.
Services and information
Register under the Indian Act
Find out if you are entitled to registration, how to apply and where to get help.
Get, renew or replace a status card
Find out how to apply for, renew or replace a status card and how long it will take.
About Indian status
Find out more about entitlement, benefits and registration under the Indian Act and the Indian Register.
Indian Act reform
Eliminating sex-based inequities, new registration entitlements, collaborative process on the second generation cut off and section 10 voting thresholds.
Registration under the Indian Act and applying for a status card, what's the difference?
Registration under the Indian Act isn't the same as applying for a status card. This infographic helps explain the differences.
Crossing the Canada-U.S. border with a status card
Find out which status cards can be used to cross the Canada-U.S. border if you're registered under the Indian Act.
How to update the Indian Register
Find out how to report an event or amend an entry.
About Indian Registration Administrators
Find out how Indian Registration Administrators help maintain the Indian Register, can help you apply for registration in the Indian Register and a status card.
About First Nation membership or citizenship
Find out about First Nations membership or citizenship and how to transfer to, create, divide or merge a First Nation.
Are you a service provider
Find out what you need to know about status cards and the Temporary Confirmation of Registration Document.
About the Temporary Confirmation of Registration Document
Find out what you need to know about the Temporary Confirmation of Registration Document.
Find a regional office
Contact information for offices where you can submit application forms or get help in person.