For full directory of "How to" listings on different topics, see here
Overview of programs ranging from basic education and literacy to workforce preparation, career training and job search assistance programs, and directs to other related listings in this directory
ADULT LITERACY & BASIC EDUCATION
Reading, writing, speaking, communication, computation and/or problem solving skills:
- for adults who cannot read or write at a functional level) see Adult Literacy Programs here
- to strengthen functional skills in these areas see Adult Basic Education programs here
SECONDARY EDUCATION
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- to complete at locations in Halton, see here
PREPARING & TRAINING FOR THE WORKFORCE
Prevocational Training (for people with disabilities, including mental health issues)
Instruction and/or counselling to develop:
- physical and emotional tolerance for work demands and pressures
- personal-social behaviours
- basic manual, academic and communications skills needed to acquire basic job skills
- see Prevocational Training programs here
Career Awareness and Counselling
- Career Awareness (provides information and data about various industries and professions): see here
- Career Counselling (provides information and guidance in evaluating aptitude, abilities and interests, to choose a vocation or career and select the type of training): see here
Vocational Assessment
Tests skills, abilities, interests, personality traits and other attributes for success in different occupational areas or specific positions
- may include programs that allow people to try out jobs for short periods of time to see if there's a 'fit' and, for people with disabilities, determine what supports might be needed to succeed if hired
- for programs see here
Job Training
- Vocational Education, see here
- On the Job Training, see here
- Computer and Related Technology Classes, see here
Work Experience/Internship Programs
Apprenticeship
Job training expense assistance
Financial assistance or loans to help people pay for tuition, books, living expenses, transportation, disability supports, assistance in caring for dependents etc.
- for programs see here
JOB SEARCH
Pre-job Guidance
Provides skills in preparing a resume, job application letters/questionnaires, answering job ads and taking employment tests, tips on appropriate dress, personal appearance and interview techniques, etc.)
- for programs see here
Comprehensive Job Assistance Centres
One-stop centres that may include job counselling, testing and assessment, pre-job guidance, job matching and referral, labour market and career information, information on financial aid for education and training, and referral for job training, transportation, child care, personal and financial counselling, etc.
- for programs see here
Specialized Job Assistance Centres:
Disability-related programs:
- Comprehensive Disability-related Programs, see here
- Supported Employment (job coach works side-by-side with client in workplace), see here
- Centre-based Employment (separate and supported work centres for those with disabilities), see here
Ex-offender Employment Programs, see here
Immigrant/refugee Employment Programs, see here
Indigenous Employment Programs, see here
Summer Employment Programs, see here
Vocational Rehabilitation (for people with disabilities, emotional problems or history of substance abuse), see here
Youth Employment Programs, see 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 2M3
Employment Supports assists Newcomers to Canada to find employment commensurate with their skills and education
- a range of activities are available to provide information, and help Newcomers develop skills, make informed decisions and foster connections that they need to seek employment or pursue career pathways
These activities include:
- Assessment, Information and Referral Services
- Job Search Workshops
- Mock Interviews
- Resume Critique
- Job Fairs
- Networking Events
- Information Sessions on Employment Topics
Milton, ON, L9T 2M3
The program offers assistance in accessing a wide range of settlement services including:
- orientation programs, language and skills training to help facilitate employment and programs to welcome newcomers to the community
- needs assessments along with information and referral to community services
- short term adjustment counselling
- assistance with education, health care, housing
- assistance with citizenship applications and citizenship test preparation
- job search and employment counselling as well as assistance to establish social and professional networks to promote community engagement
- interpretation and translation
- cultural competency training available for local agencies to ensure they have the tools and training to work with a variety of cultures
Milton, ON, L9T 2M3
Employment resources and coaching for Newcomers to Canada to find sustainable employment in Ontario
- assessment of skills, interests and abilities
- job search strategies and support, including resume development and interview preparation
- information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment opportunities
- help in maintaining employment
- information and referral to other employment and community services
All services at this site can be tailored to meet the needs of Immigrants/Newcomers.
Better Jobs Ontario -- Skills training and financial support for unemployed workers
- training program must demonstrate good job prospects
- financial support based on need, may include tuition, instructional costs, books, transportation and/or a basic living allowance
Services for employers
- offers help in identifying human resource skills requirements
- matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
- support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention
Milton, ON, L9T 2M3
Provides programs and resources to support International Medical Graduates (IMGs), Internationally Educated Healthcare Professionals (IEHPs), employers, and the healthcare sector in building careers and inclusive workplaces in Canada
Services for IMGs and IEHPs:
- Career exploration and individualized planning
- Job search skills training (resume, cover letter, interview prep, LinkedIn, networking)
- Workplace readiness and Canadian workplace culture guidance
- Technical skills training (CPR-BLS, Phlebotomy, Intramuscular Injections)
- Credential recognition and licensing guidance; study groups for MCCQE1 and NAC OSCE exams
- Mentorship opportunities with healthcare professionals
- Paid 12-week vocational work placements
- Free IMG study groups for licensing exam preparation
Program Benefits:
- Paid work placements in healthcare
- Certifications (CPR-BLS, Phlebotomy, IM injections)
- Support with credential recognition
- Access to mentors and networking opportunities
For Healthcare Employers:
- Access to pre-screened, job-ready candidates
- Financial support to offset onboarding and training costs
- Build a diverse workforce to improve patient care
- Participate in networking and employment fairs
For Community Healthcare Service Providers:
- Join the Steering Committee (advisory, program improvement, networking)
- Serve as a mentor or guest speaker
Milton, ON, L9T 2M3
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
- focus on citizenship & civic engagement, or skills & career development
For all ages:
- career mentorship
- settlement mentorship
- cultural presentation
- group mentorship sessions
- computer classes
- English conversation circles
For Seniors:
- English conversation circle
- social circle
For Youth:
- homework help
- art workshop
- in-school youth mentorship
- newcomer youth leadership
Milton, ON, L9T 4N5
Services offered include school registration, assessment and settlement support
Assessment
- students from Grades 9 to 12 will have their English language and mathematics skills assessed
- helps schools offer students the supports needed as they begin studying in the Halton District School Board
Youth Settlement Workers
- help newcomer families interact with schools to maximize parental involvement and student success
- provide interpretation and translation services​ and connect families with useful community services that help students and their parents transition into the community and schools
Youth Settlement Specialist (YSS) in Schools
in partnership with HMC Connections (HMC), supports student and family engagement through the support of Youth Settlement Specialists (YSS) at the Welcome Centre and in schools
School Specific Youth Settlement Specialists
- meet with and provide continued settlement support to families as they navigate the HDSB system
- refer families to resources and support within the Halton community
- collaborate with HDSB staff in problem solving and identifying necessary support for students specific to language and/or culture
- provide language support to families and HDSB staff when/where needed (i.e confirming a meeting, supporting families new to the school etc.)
Milton, ON, L9T 6P4
Provides students and their families new to Canada, with guidance and support as they become familiar with the Region of Halton, and their new school environment
Services offered include:
- Math and language assessments for students
- Settlement Program for Newcomers
- Information & Orientation Sessions
- Short Term Counselling (18+)
- Community Building Activities
- Conversation Circles (18+)
- Language Support
- Volunteer Opportunities
- Youth Leadership Programs
- Youth March Break & Summer Camps
- School Orientation for Newcomers
Locations:
- Halton North (Milton), 2800 High Point Dr, Suite 212
- Halton South (Oakville), 255 Morden Rd
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, L5N 2R5
Assists highly skilled internationally trained immigrants (ITIs) gain equivalent work experience in Ontario
- regulated occupation (for example, nursing, engineering, etc.)
- non-regulated occupation currently in demand, such as information technology, financial services
Bridge to Cloud - Computing and Big Data
- ​program is for internationally trained professionals and focuses on cloud computing and big data industry trend
Oakville, ON, L6M 4L6
Programs, resources, and services to help newcomers settle into their new community
- Language Learning Resources
- Multilingual Collections
- Citizenship Test Preparation
- Newcomer Conversation Circles (English and French)
- other newcomer specific programs may be offered from time to time
For specific times and locations of Newcomer focused programs see website
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, L5L 5S9
Open for in-person, virtual, telephone and email services from Monday to Friday 9 am-4 pm, no appointment necessary.
Neighbourhood multi-service agency
Pathways to Settlement - client-centred program to facilitate newcomers' integration and participation in Canadian society
Information and Awareness Services - helps newcomers settle including information and orientation on issues such as:
- immigration, health, education and housing
- translation and interpretation
- form filling;
- referrals to government and community resources ; monthly information seminars
- supportive counselling for individuals and families;
Navigating the Canadian Labour Market (NCLM) - assists newcomers and internationally trained professionals become employable in Canada, create an effective job search plan and learn about employer expectations
- provides needs assessment and customized action plan on career planning
- facilitates workshops on Canadian workplace culture, resume writing, interview skills, pre-employment training and networking events
- one-on-one job search coaching and mentoring
- post-program follow-up and support, and job leads
- access to computers, printers, telephones, fax machines, photocopiers, Internet
New Beginnings-Settlement & Employment Program (NB) - supports immigrants, refugees and citizens in their settlement and adaption process to help newcomers and citizens to be fully engaged in Canadian life, and to maximize the benefits of their contribution into Canadian society.
Crisis Counselling - provides support and guidance during a crisis; works on achieving stability, increasing empowerment and safety of community members via one-on-one and group sessions
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 4B5
Employment Supports assists Newcomers to Canada to find employment commensurate with their skills and education
- a range of activities are available to provide information, and help Newcomers develop skills, make informed decisions and foster connections that they need to seek employment or pursue career pathways
These activities include:
- Assessment, Information and Referral Services
- Job Search Workshops
- Mock Interviews
- Resume Critique
- Job Fairs
- Networking Events
- Information Sessions on Employment Topics
Georgetown, ON, L7G 4B5
The program offers assistance in accessing a wide range of settlement services including:
- orientation programs, language and skills training to help facilitate employment and programs to welcome newcomers to the community
- needs assessments along with information and referral to community services
- short term adjustment counselling
- assistance with education, health care, housing
- assistance with citizenship applications and citizenship test preparation
- job search and employment counselling as well as assistance to establish social and professional networks to promote community engagement
- interpretation and translation
- cultural competency training available for local agencies to ensure they have the tools and training to work with a variety of cultures
Georgetown, ON, L7G 4B5
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
- focus on citizenship & civic engagement, or skills & career development
For all ages:
- career mentorship
- settlement mentorship
- cultural presentation
- group mentorship sessions
- computer classes
- English conversation circles
For Seniors:
- English conversation circle
- social circle
For Youth:
- homework help
- art workshop
- in-school youth mentorship
- newcomer youth leadership
Georgetown, ON, L7G 4B5
Provides programs and resources to support International Medical Graduates (IMGs), Internationally Educated Healthcare Professionals (IEHPs), employers, and the healthcare sector in building careers and inclusive workplaces in Canada
Services for IMGs and IEHPs:
- Career exploration and individualized planning
- Job search skills training (resume, cover letter, interview prep, LinkedIn, networking)
- Workplace readiness and Canadian workplace culture guidance
- Technical skills training (CPR-BLS, Phlebotomy, Intramuscular Injections)
- Credential recognition and licensing guidance; study groups for MCCQE1 and NAC OSCE exams
- Mentorship opportunities with healthcare professionals
- Paid 12-week vocational work placements
- Free IMG study groups for licensing exam preparation
Program Benefits:
- Paid work placements in healthcare
- Certifications (CPR-BLS, Phlebotomy, IM injections)
- Support with credential recognition
- Access to mentors and networking opportunities
For Healthcare Employers:
- Access to pre-screened, job-ready candidates
- Financial support to offset onboarding and training costs
- Build a diverse workforce to improve patient care
- Participate in networking and employment fairs
For Community Healthcare Service Providers:
- Join the Steering Committee (advisory, program improvement, networking)
- Serve as a mentor or guest speaker
Oakville, ON, L6H 6Z9
Employment Supports assists Newcomers to Canada to find employment commensurate with their skills and education
- a range of activities are available to provide information, and help Newcomers develop skills, make informed decisions and foster connections that they need to seek employment or pursue career pathways
These activities include:
- Assessment, Information and Referral Services
- Job Search Workshops
- Mock Interviews
- Resume Critique
- Job Fairs
- Networking Events
- Information Sessions on Employment Topics
Oakville, ON, L6H 6Z9
The program offers assistance in accessing a wide range of settlement services including:
- orientation programs, language and skills training to help facilitate employment and programs to welcome newcomers to the community
- needs assessments along with information and referral to community services
- short term adjustment counselling
- assistance with education, health care, housing
- assistance with citizenship applications and citizenship test preparation
- job search and employment counselling as well as assistance to establish social and professional networks to promote community engagement
- interpretation and translation
- cultural competency training available for local agencies to ensure they have the tools and training to work with a variety of cultures
Oakville, ON, L6H 6Z9
Employment resources and coaching for Newcomers to Canada to find sustainable employment in Ontario
- assessment of skills, interests and abilities
- job search strategies and support, including resume development and interview preparation
- information about careers and occupations, local labour market, employment opportunities
- help in maintaining employment
- information and referral to other employment and community services
All services at this site can be tailored to meet the needs of Immigrants/Newcomers.
Better Jobs Ontario -- Skills training and financial support for unemployed workers
- training program must demonstrate good job prospects
- financial support based on need, may include tuition, instructional costs, books, transportation and/or a basic living allowance
Services for employers
- offers help in identifying human resource skills requirements
- matching of workplace needs to workers' skills, capabilities, interests and experience
- support for developing on-the-job training plans and monitoring of placements to support retention
Oakville, ON, L6H 6Z9
Provides programs and resources to support International Medical Graduates (IMGs), Internationally Educated Healthcare Professionals (IEHPs), employers, and the healthcare sector in building careers and inclusive workplaces in Canada
Services for IMGs and IEHPs:
- Career exploration and individualized planning
- Job search skills training (resume, cover letter, interview prep, LinkedIn, networking)
- Workplace readiness and Canadian workplace culture guidance
- Technical skills training (CPR-BLS, Phlebotomy, Intramuscular Injections)
- Credential recognition and licensing guidance; study groups for MCCQE1 and NAC OSCE exams
- Mentorship opportunities with healthcare professionals
- Paid 12-week vocational work placements
- Free IMG study groups for licensing exam preparation
Program Benefits:
- Paid work placements in healthcare
- Certifications (CPR-BLS, Phlebotomy, IM injections)
- Support with credential recognition
- Access to mentors and networking opportunities
For Healthcare Employers:
- Access to pre-screened, job-ready candidates
- Financial support to offset onboarding and training costs
- Build a diverse workforce to improve patient care
- Participate in networking and employment fairs
For Community Healthcare Service Providers:
- Join the Steering Committee (advisory, program improvement, networking)
- Serve as a mentor or guest speaker
Oakville, ON, L6H 6Z9
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
- focus on citizenship & civic engagement, or skills & career development
For all ages:
- career mentorship
- settlement mentorship
- cultural presentation
- group mentorship sessions
- computer classes
- English conversation circles
For Seniors:
- English conversation circle
- social circle
For Youth:
- homework help
- art workshop
- in-school youth mentorship
- newcomer youth leadership
Oakville, ON, L6H 6Z9
Helps newcomers settle and integrate into a community that is welcoming and inclusive
Programs at this location include:
- Community Connections (OAK4196)
- Employment Supports (OAK0402)
- Integrated Employment Services - Employment Ontario (OAK0482)
- Interpretation and Translation (OAK2788)
- Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (OAK2790)
- Settlement Services (OAK2785)
- Support for Ukrainians (OAK0458)
- Transitional Housing for Newcomers to Halton (OAK0433)
Other HMC offices in Halton are located in:
