New to Canada? You may be eligible for government-funded settlement services

Some newcomers arriving to Canada are eligible for settlement services.

Newcomers can take advantage of these government-funded services, which are intended to help support them in adapting to life in Canada.

Settlement services can help newcomers with tasks such as finding housing, improving language skills, finding employment, and even making new friends.

Studies have shown that newcomers benefit significantly from using settlement services. But nearly a third of immigrants who arrive in Canada are unaware of these services.

This article will break down

• Which newcomers are eligible to receive settlement services;
• What kinds of settlement services are available;
• How to find services in your area; and
• How effective these settlement services are.

Who is eligible to receive settlement services?

Settlement services are programs that help newcomers adjust to life in Canada. They are delivered to newcomers by a number of immigrant supporting organizations that exist across Canada. These services are usually funded directly by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) but can also be funded by provincial and municipal governments.

Settlement services support immigrants in various aspects of their new lives, including daily needs, learning English or French, securing employment, and connecting with the community.

Settlement services are available to permanent residents, protected persons, and some temporary residents. Who is eligible for a service can also vary based on who is funding it. For example, most settlement services funded wholly by IRCC are only available to permanent residents of Canada.