Independent · Plain language · British Columbia
Understand CVAP.
Find your next step.
A calm, practical guide to British Columbia’s Crime Victim Assistance Program—eligibility, benefits, applications, counselling and support.
Start here
What best describes you?
These are ordinary navigation links. Your choice is not saved or sent anywhere.
I was affected directly
Information for people physically or psychologically injured by a violent crime.
Explore victim information →02I am a family member
Information for immediate family members of an injured or deceased victim.
Explore family information →03I witnessed an event
Information for certain witnesses to a violent crime or its immediate aftermath.
Explore witness information →What CVAP may help with
Support for recovery and financial loss
Possible benefits depend on who is applying, what happened and what other coverage is available. A category being listed does not guarantee approval.
How applying works
A clearer path through the process
- 1
Find the right form
Choose victim, immediate family member or witness—and the form matching the crime date.
- 2
Prepare the requested details
Gather the information and documents listed by the official application. Never send them to CVAP.ca.
- 3
Apply directly to CVAP
Use the official online form, or submit the current PDF by an accepted method.
Looking for support?
Start with a person who can help you navigate.
VictimLinkBC offers confidential information and referrals 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in many languages.
CVAP counselling
Counselling may be part of an approved benefit.
Learn who may receive counselling, current provider requirements, authorization and session information, virtual appointments, and what to consider when choosing a counsellor.
Understand CVAP counsellingCommon questions
Quick answers, with official sources
Is CVAP.ca the official program?
No. CVAP.ca is an independent guide. The Government of British Columbia operates CVAP and makes all eligibility and benefit decisions.
Do I need to wait for charges or a conviction?
No. The Government of BC says you do not have to wait for charges to be laid or for the offender to be convicted before applying.
How long do I have to apply?
In most cases, one year if the crime occurred before January 1, 2024, and two years if it occurred on or after that date. Exceptions can apply.
Can a victim service worker help?
Yes. A victim service worker can help you understand and complete an application. VictimLinkBC can connect you with a local program.
About this resource
Independent by design. Accountable by name.
CVAP.ca is an independent informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the Government of British Columbia or the Crime Victim Assistance Program.
It is operated and edited by John Zak, MA, RCC, a British Columbia Registered Clinical Counsellor. John does not speak for CVAP, and this guide remains useful whether or not you consider his counselling practice.
Learn how we research and reviewSource transparency
Primary sources
Official sources control if this guide differs. Links and content were checked August 22, 2026.
- Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP)Government of British Columbia
- CVAP application formsGovernment of British Columbia
- Crime Victim Assistance ActBC Laws
- Crime Victim Assistance (General) RegulationBC Laws