Programs & Services
Are you a newcomer, including an immigrant, refugee, temporary foreign worker or international student, in British Columbia? We’re here to support you.
Program Categories
Get Settled
We support you to start your new life in BC. We can advise on education, housing, finances, healthcare, law and more.
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Learn English
We offer free English classes, from beginner to advanced (CLB 1 – 6), online and in person. Our Language and Career College (LCC) also provides affordable classes.
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Find Work
We can support you in finding a job, training or requalification, finding mentors, networking, or qualifying for a study loan.
Learn moreFind your program
Find the right program or service for you to build your life in British Columbia (BC).
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American Sign Language (ASL) LINC classes
A free program that teaches American Sign Language (ASL) to newcomers with little or no English. This training supports you in communicating, connecting with your community, and navigating daily life in British Columbia.
Learn MoreFree in-person ASL classes in the evenings.
Available at the Vancouver (Victoria Dr) location.
ASL teachers with ASLPI Level 4+ certification.
Learn alongside other newcomers who are deaf or hard of hearing.
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B-Hired
B-Hired offers free job search training for young newcomers aged 16-29 in BC, focusing on in-demand jobs and career success.
Learn MoreJob search workshops
Occupational training leading to certificates;
Job search support/work experience placement;
Career counselling and coaching;
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BC Newcomer Services Program (BC NSP)
BC NSP supports you in settling into your new community in British Columbia with services like community orientation, job search support, and career counselling.
Learn MoreSettlement services
Practise in English skills
Work and career support
Start building your life in BC!
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BC SAFE HAVEN
BC SAFE HAVEN offers you free support as a refugee claimant, helping with settlement, English, job search, and mental health referrals.
Learn MoreSupport for refugee claimants and asylum seekers
Refugee claim support
Settling in your new community
English language training
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Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants
Continue your career using your international experience to link to job opportunities in BC.
Learn MoreQualification evaluation and assistance with BC licenses.
Help with joining regulatory bodies and professional associations.
Funding for skills and courses to enhance your qualifications.
Job search support tailored to your profession.
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E-Connect for Temporary Foreign Workers in BC
E-Connect is an online learning program. With support across BC, you’ll gain essential skills to succeed at work.
Learn MoreSupport for building skills and settling in BC
Needs assessment to identify strengths and challenges
Personalized learning plan with online courses
Feedback from an experienced case manager
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Global Talent Loans
This program supports your return to your previous career or start a new one with support and low-interest loans.
Learn MoreLow-interest rate government-funded loan
Career planning and counseling
Employment support
Support with recredentialling process
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Hire a Newcomer
Discover talented newcomers ready to join your team. Simplify your hiring process with tailored recruitment services.
Learn MoreConnect with skilled talent
Tailored recruitment support
Ongoing assistance for success
Diversity and inclusion training
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Language and Career College (LCC)
LCC offers high-quality and flexible English language classes and professional diplomas through co-op programs for newcomers in British Columbia.
Learn MoreAffordable and flexible learning options
Gain skills for the Canadian job market
Learn English fast
Make friends with other newcomers!
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Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
A free program that supports you to learn the English language, no matter your level. This training supports you in integrating and navigating daily life in British Columbia.
Learn MoreFlexible scheduling: full-time, part-time, in-person, online, and hybrid options
Available at several locations including Surrey, Coquitlam and Vancouver
Licensed preschool programs for children aged 30 months to 5 years
Parents can focus on studies while children learn English and social skills
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Moving Ahead Program (MAP)
MAP can support you if you are facing challenges due to your identity or life experiences. MAP services are completely confidential.
Learn MoreGet support to access schools, healthcare, housing, and recreation.
Receive confidential guidance to adjust to life in Canada for you and your family
Learn stress management techniques for settling in Canada and build your confidence
Access specialised support for families, young adults, and LGBTQ+ newcomers
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Multi-cultural Youth Circle (MY Circle)
If you are between 15 and 30 years old, this is the perfect program for you! Discover local activities, become part of your community, and make friends. Benefits include:
Learn MoreFree training and skill workshops
Join group field trips across BC
Meet other young newcomers
Learn how to be a community leader
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Newcomer Women Support
Our women’s programs can help you find support in your local community, make friends, learn about Canada, and even become a community leader!
Learn MoreOpen for refugee and immigrant women
Must be aged 19 and above
Share your experiences with other newcomer women
Practise English and learn leadership skills
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Senior Newcomer Support
If you are 55 years old or older, you can make friends, discover local events, become part of your community, and enjoy life. Benefits include:
Learn MoreLearning about local community resources and Canadian culture
Improving your digital skills such as email and online registrations
Practicing your English in a friendly and patient environment
Meet other older newcomers who speak your language and have similar experiences.
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Skills Hub
Skills Hub offers you free job and skills training, supporting you with challenges like limited skills, low English levels, or childcare responsibilities.
Learn MoreSkills Training (including soft skills training)
Group workshops for employment readiness
1:1 development of training plans
Career counselling
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Solid Start 360 – Job search support
Solid Start 360—Employment Program supports participants in building confidence, developing job readiness skills, and taking a strong step into the Canadian workforce.
Learn More1:1 job search coaching
Group workshops (in-person/online/self-paced)
Job postings and referrals to employer partners
Assistance to understand and succeed in the local labour market
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Volunteering and Community Connections
Volunteering is a great way to get Canadian work experience and support our important work of welcoming newcomers to British Columbia! As a volunteer with ISSofBC, you will get:
Learn MoreValuable professional experience
Opportunities to learn about your local community
New friends and mentors
A way of practicing your English
Where to Find Us
We have several locations across BC. View our locations to find addresses, maps, directions, and contact information.
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