Government Services
To learn about the Canadian government system, its benefits and services, read more below.
Settling Steps
Social Insurance Number
Apply for a SIN, which is needed for work and accessing government services. You can apply online, by mail, or in person at a Service Canada office.
Drivers License
If you plan to drive, you may need to exchange your foreign driver’s license for a Canadian one. Each province and territory has its own rules.
Legal and Immigration Status
Ensure you comply with any additional legal requirements for your immigration status. This might include renewing your visa or permanent residency documents.
FCRP and Job Bank for Newcomers
Job Bank: Canada’s national job search platform, where immigrants can access job opportunities, create profiles, and receive job-matching services.
Foreign Credential Recognition Program: Assists skilled immigrants in getting their foreign qualifications recognized in Canada.
Benefits
Ontario Bridge Training Programs
Helps internationally trained professionals gain the skills and experience required to work in their fields in Ontario.
BC PNP Skills Immigration
Helps skilled immigrants settle in British Columbia, with a focus on in-demand professions.
Immigrant Employment Council of BC: Offers mentorship programs, workshops, and job connections for newcomers in British Columbia.
Quebec Immigration Programs
Quebec offers programs like Objectif Intégration designed to support job search efforts.
Wage Subsidy Programs
Many provinces offer wage subsidy programs to incentivize employers to hire newcomers. These programs provide partial salary payments to encourage employers to take on recent immigrants.
Public Housing and Subsidies
Support for low-income individuals and families through affordable housing options and rent subsidies.
Canada/Universal Child Benefit
Canada Child Benefit (CCB): A monthly tax-free payment to eligible families with children under 18 years old to help with the cost of raising children. You must apply to receive the benefits.
Universal Child Care Benefit (UCCB): Provides financial assistance to families with children under six years old to help with child care costs. This is provided without application as long as you file your tax returns.
Social Assistance Payments
Financial support provided based on assessments of income. These payments cover essential needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. You need to apply for these.
Disability Benefits
Financial assistance and support for individuals with disabilities through programs like the Disability Tax Credit and provincial/territorial disability benefits. You need to apply for these.
Canada Pension Plan + Old Age Security and GIS
Canada Pension Plan (CPP): Provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits to contributors based on their work history and contributions to the plan.
Old Age Security (OAS): A monthly pension to seniors aged 65 and older, which is based on residency and age, not on income.
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): An additional monthly payment for low-income seniors who receive the OAS pension.
Employment Insurance
Provides temporary financial assistance to unemployed individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own, are sick, or are on parental leave.
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada
Bridging programs help newcomers overcome barriers such as language proficiency or lack of Canadian experience. LINC offers free language training to immigrants to help them improve their English or French.
TRIEC Mentoring Partnership
Mentorship programs pair immigrants with experienced professionals to help them navigate the job market. Connects skilled immigrants with Canadian professionals in their field for guidance and networking.