Once you have read through the information package, you can fill out the application form online via the Foster & Care Provider Portal. This Portal guides you through the steps to apply to become a foster caregiver in British Columbia. Using the Portal requires a BC Services Card Account to verify your identity and keep your information secure.

After completing the form, MCFD’s Centralized Retention and Recruitment Team will reach out to you for the next steps in the process. You may be invited to an information session. Information sessions are designed to help prospective foster caregivers make the decision about fostering.

Topics include:

• How to become a foster caregiver
• What’s involved in being a foster caregiver
• An overview of BC’s foster care system

• Four personal references – one must be from a relative
• A medical assessment completed by a physician*
• A criminal record check and/or review (anyone over 18 years old who will be living in the home must have a criminal record check done)
• A prior contact check for previous child welfare involvement

Please note that the process of becoming a foster caregiver may vary in some regions.

Once the initial screening is complete, you will be invited to take the required pre-service training for foster caregivers. Pre-Service training is required for all new prospective caregivers. 

Ongoing training is required and expected of all foster caregivers to support professional development and to further their specialized knowledge and skills.

A number of in-home interviews will be conducted with prospective foster caregivers and their families to assess their:

• Home environment
• Parenting skills to meet the needs of a child or youth in care
• Willingness and ability to collaborate with social workers, a child’s family and extended family, and, where appropriate, a child’s Indigenous community

Once the approval process is successfully completed, you will be asked to sign an agreement outlining your responsibilities and those of MCFD or the Indigenous Child and Family Service Agency.

Once the above is complete, a child or youth may now be placed in your home. The length of time that you may wait for your first placement depends on the needs within your community.