Settling in Canada - IRCC
“Settle in Canada” is the official newcomer settlement portal operated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It centralizes all federal programs and resources designed to help new immigrants and refugees successfully establish themselves in Canada. The portal provides verified information, connects users to free services across provinces, and links to trusted community organizations funded by the Government of Canada.
Key sections and services
• Before you arrive – information for pre-arrival immigrants, including checklists, language tests, credential assessment, and pre-arrival orientation services offered online and overseas.
• After you arrive – guidance on obtaining essential documents (SIN, health card, driver’s licence), enrolling in language training, finding work, housing, schools, and community support.
• Free settlement services – searchable database of over 500 IRCC-funded agencies nationwide offering help with employment, education, daily life, and community connections.
• Language training – links to the official LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) and CLIC programs, available in both English and French.
• Employment and community integration – tools and resources to connect newcomers with job banks, skills recognition programs, and mentorship opportunities.
Strengths
- Authoritative and trustworthy: managed directly by the federal immigration department; all listed services are government-funded.
- Comprehensive coverage: includes all provinces and territories, making it the most complete national settlement directory.
- Free access: no registration or fees required to browse or use the database of funded providers.
- Multilingual: available in English and French, and many linked services offer interpretation in other languages.
- Updated regularly: ensures accuracy of program availability and contact information.
Considerations
- The site itself does not deliver services; users must contact local providers.
- Wait times and eligibility depend on immigration status (PR, refugee, temporary resident).
- Some linked programs operate only regionally; newcomers should verify local availability.
Who it is for
All newcomers—permanent residents, refugees, and eligible temporary residents—seeking reliable, up-to-date information on how to settle, learn a language, find work, and connect to community life anywhere in Canada.
In summary
This portal functions as Canada’s official one-stop guide to settlement, linking newcomers to free, verified, and region-specific supports across the country.
