Adults must document an adequate knowledge of English or French to acquire citizenship, for list of accepted documents see here
For full directory of "How to" listings on different topics, see here
Overview of free ESL (English as a Second Language), FSL (French as a Second Language) and LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) classes in Halton, and directs to other related listings in this directory
WHAT ARE ESL, FSL and LINC?
All provide free training in English as a Second Language, French as a Second Language or Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada
- ESL and FSL are funded by the Government of Ontario (for Canadian citizens, refugee claimants and live-in caregivers with a work permit)
- LINC is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (for Convention Refugees and holders of a Permanent Resident Card)
CLASSES IN HALTON:
Centre for Skills Development: (classes in Burlington, Milton and Oakville)
- offers LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) classes
- for more information see full listings here
Halton Catholic District School Board, Thomas Merton Centre for Adult and Continuing Education: (classes in Burlington, Milton and Oakville)
- offers ESL (English as a Second Language), FSL (French as a Second Language) and LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) classes
- for more information see full listing here
Halton District School Board, Gary Allan Learning Centres: (classes in Burlington, Georgetown, Milton and Oakville)
- offers ESL (English as a Second Language) and FSL (French as a Second Language) classes
- for more information see full listing here
HMC Connections (formerly Halton Multicultural Council): (classes held in Oakville)
- offers LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) classes
- for more information see full listing here
For full directory of "How to" listings on different topics, see here
This listing gives an overview of services to assist newcomers to Canada, and is an index to related listings in this directory
- for comprehensive information, please see the Halton Newcomer InfoPod
DRIVER'S LICENCE:
A newcomer to Ontario can use a valid licence from another province, state or country for 60 days
- after 60 days, a newcomer must switch to an Ontario driver's licence
- for more information on driver's licences for newcomers, see Ministry of Transportation website
- to apply for an Ontario driver's licence, go to a Drivetest Centre (for locations, see full listings here)
HEALTH INSURANCE:
Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) provides publicly-funded health care for residents of Ontario
- for more information, see separate listing here
- to apply for OHIP, go to a ServiceOntario Service Counter (for locations, see full listings here)
Interim Federal Health Program provides limited and temporary health care coverage to some groups of foreign nationals who are vulnerable and disadvantaged, and aren't eligible for provincial or territorial health insurance
- for more information, see Government of Canada website
IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP:
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada facilitates the arrival of immigrants, provides protection to refugees, and offers programming to help newcomers settle in Canada
- also grants citizenship and issues travel documents (such as passports) to Canadians
- for more information, see Government of Canada website
Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship test is used by newcomers to study for the citizenship test
- the publication is available online to read, listen to, or download
- a free print copy can be ordered online or by calling 1-888-567-7183
- also available to borrow at some library locations
INFORMATION AND REFERRAL FOR NEWCOMERS
For Community Information Centres throughout Halton that maintain information about the full range of human services and which function as the primary source of information about and linkage to human service providers in the community, see here
- for help in languages other than English, dial 2-1-1 to reach 211 Ontario, which uses data from the Halton Community Services Directory and has live translation services in more than 150 languages
INTERPRETATION AND TRANSLATION:
For a list of organizations that may provide this service, see full listings here
- may be a fee for document translation
LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION - ESL, FSL AND LINC:
Programs that offer opportunities to learn listening, speaking, reading and writing skills with an emphasis on developing the level of communication competence that is essential for adults who are living in a setting in which English or French is the primary language
- for more information, see separate listing here
NEWCOMER SETTLEMENT SERVICES:
Free services for newcomers to Canada are funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to provide advice and help on:
- looking for a job
- getting a language assessment
- registering for language classes
- finding a place to live
- signing children up for school
- learning about community services
Available in Burlington, Halton Hills, Oakville, Milton and surrounding areas
Milton, ON, L9T 4N5
Programs provide language training in English (ESL) and French (FSL) for those newcomers to Canada whose first language is neither English nor French
- programs use the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) curricular standards
- all instructors are OCELT-certified
English as a Second Language (LINC/ESL)
- provides learners with the opportunity to improve their English language proficiency according to their individual learning goals and priorities, in a group setting
- curriculum is based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) standards
French as a Second Language (FSL)
- offers learners opportunities to communicate in French in a variety of travel, leisure and job-related contexts
- using the NCLC curriculum standards, learners will expand their vocabulary and grammar in a variety of themes related to their daily lives with the help of dedicated & professional FSL instructors
Milton, ON, L9T 1N8
- offers an in-person English as a Second language (ESL) and English conversation circles, combining speaking, reading and writing, with a primary focus on conversation practice.
- dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming environment for individuals seeking to study English as a Second Language (ESL) and enhance their conversation skills. The program caters to the needs of newcomers to Canada and those striving to refine their English language skills.
- provided by Southside, run by volunteers only with no spiritual connotation
Milton, ON, L9T 6P4
A continuing education service of the Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB) which offers Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC), English as a Second Language (ESL) from levels 1 to 10 and French as a Second Language (FSL) .
Programs designed for:
- Adult immigrants wanting to improve their ability to read, write, speak and understand English and/or French
- Exam preparation for IELTS (required for university or college entrance in Ontario)
- Adult immigrants wanting to improve their workplace skills
- Classes are free and are offered at Oakville, Burlington and Milton locations
Classes:
- Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) 1 to 10
- French as a Second Language (FSL) (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced)
- Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing
- Literacy
- Pronunciation
- Business English
- Canadian Employment Language Training (CELT) courses
- Computers for the Workplace
- IELTS / Academic English Test Preparation
Canadian Citizenship Test Preparation
- Focus on English comprehension and language skills specific to the Canadian Citizenship test
- Learn about Canadian geography, history, political system, and the cultural diversity of Canada
- Five-week course, scheduled multiple times throughout the year (call for details of course dates)
Milton, ON, L9T 6P4
A service of the Halton Catholic District School Board offering summer literacy and numeracy programs, secondary credit courses, International Language Program for JK-Grade 8, and Adult ESL/FSL programs
Summer Literacy and Numeracy Programs Grades 6, 7 and 8
Secondary Summer School Grades 9-12:
- courses for new and make-up credits
- registration for HCDSB students through myBlueprint and non-HCDSB students through our website
- co-op credit opportunities for Grade 11, 12 and/or adult students to earn secondary school credits and gain employment experience
- placement must be related to a course within your high school curriculum at Grade 10-12 level
International Languages, Grades JK-8:
- an opportunity for elementary students to experience the culture, traditions and language of another country
- no previous knowledge of language is necessary
- consult website for languages
ADULT LINC/ESL/FSL Programs:
- Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada - LINC
- English as a Second Language - ESL
- French as a Second Language - FSL
- Refer to Thomas Merton Centre website for contacts, locations, days and times for each of the programs
Burlington: 460 Brant Street, 905-632-5858
Milton: 2800 Highpoint Drive, 905-693-6676
Oakville: 255 Morden Road, 905-849-7555
Milton, ON, L9T 5E4
Provides services to enable immigrants and refugees to integrate into Canadian society, including orientation programs, language and skills training to help facilitate employment and programs to welcome newcomers to the community
- English Classes - language instruction for newcomers to Canada
- Enhanced Language Training - language training for newcomers preparing to enter the Canadian workplace
- Settlement Assistance - information about settling into Halton
- Community Connections Programs - free programs and events to learn about life in Canada, meet new friends, learn about other programs in your community, improve your English conversation skills in a relaxed atmosphere and more
- free Commissioner of Oaths services available - call for an appointment
Mississauga, ON, L5L 5S9
Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry; childminding and transportation assistance may be available for eligible attendees
Settlement and Integration Services
- orientation, information
- translation and interpretation
- job board, job placement; resume preparation and assistance; interview and job search techniques
- counselling and support for women exposed to family violence
- information and referral
- violence prevention education
Mississauga, ON, L5N 2P1
Immigrant Services -- settlement information and orientation to life in Canada
- needs assessment; referral to other agencies and government services
- help filling in government forms and applications
- English Conversation Circles (ECC)
- Commissioner of Oaths, document translation and interpretation with service providers
- crisis support counselling and cultural transition
- Pre-apprentice program for youth, newcomers and racialized minorities
- Mississauga Cycles cycling mentorship and do-it-yourself Bike Hub
- New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP)
Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry
Enhanced Language Training (ELT) -- sector specific language training with job search workshops and a co-op placement
Community Connections Mentorship Program (formerly HOST Program)
- group activities for newly arrived immigrants and refugees of all ages to help orient them to their new community and establish social and professional networks
- trained and experienced volunteer mentors assist, with focus on citizenship and civic engagement or skills and career development
Youth Services
- youth leadership and volunteering opportunities
- youth conversation circle
- youth employment programs
- social and recreational activities including drop in
Community Services
- digital literacy training
- free seasonal income tax clinic
- dental clinic for children (Healthy Smiles Ontario)
- Orientation to Ontario (O2O) webinars
Access centre for Ontario Electricity Support Program - assistance with applications
Georgetown, ON, L7G 3Z5
Programs provide language training in English (ESL) and French (FSL) for those newcomers to Canada whose first language is neither English nor French
- programs use the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) curricular standards
- all instructors are OCELT-certified
English as a Second Language (LINC/ESL)
- provides learners with the opportunity to improve their English language proficiency according to their individual learning goals and priorities, in a group setting
- curriculum is based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) standards
French as a Second Language (FSL)
- offers learners opportunities to communicate in French in a variety of travel, leisure and job-related contexts
- using the NCLC curriculum standards, learners will expand their vocabulary and grammar in a variety of themes related to their daily lives with the help of dedicated & professional FSL instructors
Oakville, ON, L6H 6Z9
A community-based, federally funded English language training program offered by the Government of Canada in collaboration with local school boards, employers, multicultural groups and other partners in the delivery of English language instruction.
LINC provides newcomers with:
- communication skills to help facilitate their social, cultural and economic integration into Canadian society
- participants learn about Canada, diversity, rights and responsibilities and labour market integration
- Canadian Language Benchmark levels offered are CLB 0-7
- classes are offered at the Oakville location
Mississauga, ON, L5B 3C2
Free English language training program for eligible newcomers to Canada who cannot attend regular LINC classes
Program requires:
- 5-7 hours of study every week
- weekly scheduled class with the teacher
- high-speed internet to take the program online.
Online self-assessment tool offers reading and listening tests for English as a Second Language or French as a Second Language
60-minute test generates an approximate benchmark range. Results are not official.
Website also provides information about the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) national standards for measuring second language skills of adult immigrants and prospective immigrants.
Oakville, ON, L6H 7E7
Church services:
- Sunday worship with communion, teaching, nursery care and children's program
Community Services:
- free English as a Second Language (ESL) classes Sep-Jun
Groups:
- community groups
- midweek children's and youth programs
- men's and women's groups
Events:
- vacation bible school
Offers English as a Second language (ESL) courses combining speaking, reading and writing, but with a primary focus on conversation practice
Mississauga, ON, L5L 3R6
Multiservice agency for adults who are deaf, deafened, or hard of hearing
- audiology and speech-language pathology
- communication devices
- hearing aid services and hearing tests
- support for coping with hearing loss
- American Sign Language (ASL) classes for individuals and businesses
Interpreter Services -- professional ASL interpreters for medical, legal, business, employment, social and government services
Emergency Interpreter Services -- sign language interpreters for health or mental health emergencies, Mon-Sun 24 hours; 1-866-518-0000, TTY 1-877-215-9530, [email protected], SMS/Text 416-712-6637 (charges may apply)
Connect Counselling Services -- for mental health issues, addiction, relationship problems, domestic violence or other serious challenges
Educational Support Services -- note takers, sign language interpreters and assistive devices for part time postsecondary students
Deaf-Blind Intervening Services --1-866-518-0000, TTY 1-877-215-9530, Allan Wareham [email protected]
Settlement Program for Newcomers
- needs assessment and referrals
- translation (English and American Sign Language)
- form filling
- problem solving
- information on technical devices, housing, transportation, health, employment, education, legal system, settlement issues, local community
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) -- basic communication skills, reading and writing in English, adapting to life in Canada; instruction is in American Sign Language (ASL)
Mississauga, ON, L5L 1R6
- community-based organization located in Oakville and Mississauga, dedicated to supporting immigrants of all ages as they build new lives in Canada
- offer educational services designed to ease the transition into a new environment, including language learning, cultural integration programs, and STEM education
Oakville, ON, L6M 3B2
Provides services to enable immigrants and refugees to integrate into Canadian society, including orientation programs, language and skills training to help facilitate employment and programs to welcome newcomers to the community
- English Classes - language instruction for newcomers to Canada
- Enhanced Language Training - language training for newcomers preparing to enter the Canadian workplace
- Settlement Assistance - information about settling into Halton
- Community Connections Programs - free programs and events to learn about life in Canada, meet new friends, learn about other programs in your community, improve your English conversation skills in a relaxed atmosphere and more
- free Commissioner of Oaths services available - call for an appointment
Burlington, ON, L7L 6M6
Provides services to enable immigrants and refugees to integrate into Canadian society, including orientation programs, language and skills training to help facilitate employment and programs to welcome newcomers to the community
- English Classes - language instruction for newcomers to Canada
- Enhanced Language Training - language training for newcomers preparing to enter the Canadian workplace
- Settlement Assistance - information about settling into Halton
- Community Connections Programs - free programs and events to learn about life in Canada, meet new friends, learn about other programs in your community, improve your English conversation skills in a relaxed atmosphere and more
- free Commissioner of Oaths services available - call for an appointment
Oakville, ON, L6K 2G7
Programs provide language training in English (ESL) and French (FSL) for those newcomers to Canada whose first language is neither English nor French
- programs use the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) curricular standards
- all instructors are OCELT-certified
English as a Second Language (LINC/ESL)
- provides learners with the opportunity to improve their English language proficiency according to their individual learning goals and priorities, in a group setting
- curriculum is based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) standards
French as a Second Language (FSL)
- offers learners opportunities to communicate in French in a variety of travel, leisure and job-related contexts
- using the NCLC curriculum standards, learners will expand their vocabulary and grammar in a variety of themes related to their daily lives with the help of dedicated & professional FSL instructors
Oakville, ON, L6K 3X9
Offers eligibility screening, language skills assessment and referral to government-funded English and French language programs including:
- Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
- LINC Home Study
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- French as a Second Language (FSL) programs
- Enhanced Language Training (ELT)
- Occupation-Specific Language Training (OSLT)
- Specialized Language Training (SLT)
- Language Assessment Centre is located in Oakville and also provides language assessments at itinerant locations in Burlington and Milton
- appointments will be made at the most accessible and convenient location for the client and are available online for English only
Mississauga, ON, L5C 4P3
Settlement information for immigrants and refugees including government assisted refugees
- job search assistance and information about workplace rights and Employment Standards Act
- information about health and education system, landlord and tenant rights, banking
- anti-violence information for families, mental health information
- seasonal income tax clinic (Community Volunteer Income Tax Program) for families with low incomes
- information and referral to community services
- assistance with forms and applications such as PR card renewal, citizenship applications and forms for income security and health programs
- English-Chinese interpretation and translation, commissioner of oaths
- in-home settlement service visits available
Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry, childminding may be available for attendees with children 2-6 years, bus fare for eligible attendees
- computer/Zoom classes: Zoom classes open to all who want to learn video conferencing via the Zoom app; class outside LINC/ESL class time
Seniors Programs
- needs assessment, information and referral
- community connection activities and workshops such as Chinese painting, Taiji, line dance, Chinese folk dancing
Mississauga, ON, L5K 1T9
Offices are open, preferably by appointment; services are offered in-person and remotely over the phone and by Zoom
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Settlement Services
- assessments and referrals
- supportive counselling for youth, families and women
- Commissioner of Oath services
- sessions on topics such as housing, education, health care, social assistance, legal assistance, citizenship, professional licensing and job search
Peel Halton Integrated Services Reception Centre
Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) -- needs assessment, including emergency needs
- life skills support including orientation in clients' language on a variety of topics, such as federal and provincial programs and services, health care issues, managing money, education system, family life, employment
- referrals to community services and other settlement programs
- assistance with searching for, viewing, selecting, and moving into permanent accommodations
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry,
Multicultural Settlement and Education Partnership in Schools (MSEP) -- assists newcomer students and their families with settling into schools and the community
Youth Achievers
- after school activities for children 6-12 years including coding, robotics and life skills
- other programs for youth include Homework Club, see separate entry
Seniors Organized and Supported Program (NHSP)
- increases social participation and inclusion of seniors in their communities
- activities led by seniors' leadership groups brought together from the local community
- activities include physical and mental wellness sessions such as yoga, meditation, Share Your Talents, gardening, painting and community exploration trips
Orangeville location at 15 Brenda Blvd, Orangeville, ON, L9W 3Y5, 416-583-3800
Brampton, ON, L6Y 4M3
Eligibility screening, language skills assessment and referral to English language government-funded programs
- Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
- LINC Home Study
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- French as a Second Language (FSL) programs
- Enhanced Language Training (ELT)
- Occupation-Specific Language Training (OSLT)
- Specialized Language Training (SLT)
Brampton, ON, L6Y 5B4
Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by achev -- see separate entry
