The Basics of Canadian Finances

Government Programs, Financial Assistance and Loans for Newcomers

Canada has a strong history of welcoming newcomers from around the world and helping them settle into their new life here. The government of Canada has developed programs that offer financial assistance, loans and help with immigrating to Canada.

Immigrant Settlement and Adaptation Program (ISAP)

The goal of ISAP is to provide newcomers with information that will help them to integrate easily into Canadian society. It provides guidance on:

• Important aspects of life in Canada, including banking and housing
• Economic, social, health and educational services and facilities
• Employment-related services
• Translation services
• Orientation services

These services are offered through Canadian Orientation Abroad (COA) via international organizations in various countries around the world.

Immigration Loans Program (ILP)

This program provides loans to refugees and protected persons to help them cover certain expenses before leaving for Canada. These include:

• Medical examinations
• Obtaining travel documents
• Transportation to Canada

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Resettlement Assistance Program

For refugees and protected persons, the Resettlement Assistance Program provides funds and services including:

• Temporary accommodation
• Assistance in finding permanent housing
• Essential clothing
• Household items
• Living expenses
• Income support for up to one year

Host Program

Getting information and advice from a Canadian volunteer can go a long way in helping you feel at home — especially if you’ve just arrived. The Host Program matches newcomers to a Canadian volunteer “host” who can help with:

• Practicing language skills
• Learning how to use local public transportation systems and carry out essential activities, like shopping
• Connecting with other members of your community
• Finding employment opportunities
• Setting up a household, including arranging services like telephone, heating and electricity

	Citizenship and Immigration Canada can give you more advice and information on all of these programs.
	Citizenship and Immigration Canada — Information on the Host Program, resettling refugees and ISAP.
	Canada International — Information on services for non-Canadians.
	Canada Benefits — An overview of benefits for newcomers.

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