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Starting a new life in Canada is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming at first. From figuring out where to live and how to find a job to enrolling your kids in school or learning a new language, there’s a lot to manage. That’s where settlement services come in.

If you’re new to Canada or planning your move soon, this guide will walk you through how these services work, who they’re for, and how they can help you feel more at home.

What Are Settlement Services?

Settlement services are free programs funded by the Canadian government and provinces to help newcomers adjust to life in Canada. These services are available to:

• Permanent residents
• Refugees and protected persons
• Some temporary residents (like those under special programs such as CUAET)

What Kind of Help Can You Get?

Settlement agencies offer a wide range of support to help you get started — both before and after you arrive in Canada.

Before You Arrive (Pre-Arrival Services):

• Guidance with your immigration paperwork
• Help understanding the Canadian job market
• Credential assessments and job readiness support
• Info about language testing and training options

After You Arrive (Post-Arrival Services):

• Help finding housing and affordable rentals
• School enrollment and childcare support
• Free English or French classes (ESL/FSL)
• Job search help, including writing resumes
• Legal advice and settlement counseling
• Orientation on healthcare, banking, transit, and more
• Community programs and mentorship opportunities

Top Settlement Service Providers in Canada

Here’s a look at some of the most trusted agencies that help newcomers across different regions:

Organization	Where They Operate	Services Offered	Website
YMCA Newcomer Services	Nationwide	Housing, jobs, youth support	ymcagta.org
COSTI Immigrant Services	Ontario	Job help, language programs, housing	costi.org
MOSAIC	British Columbia	Employment, legal aid, language classes	mosaicbc.org
ISANS	Nova Scotia	Newcomer workshops, job assistance	isans.ca
SUCCESS	BC & Alberta	Translation, job help, housing support	successbc.ca
OCISO	Ottawa	Youth & mental health programs, settlement help	ociso.org
Accueil Francophone	Manitoba	Francophone newcomers, housing, support	accueilfrancophonemb.com

Why Use Settlement Services?

There are many good reasons to take advantage of these programs — and none of them cost you anything.

• They’re free and confidential
• You can access help in your language
• They guide you through official paperwork
• They connect you with employers, schools, and support networks
• They help you feel part of your new community

💡 Many organizations also offer virtual or hybrid services, so you can get help from home if needed.

How to Access These Services

Getting started is simple:

1. Find a local provider using the IRCC service finder
2. Book an appointment online or by phone (some accept walk-ins)
3. Bring important documents like your PR card, passport, or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
4. Ask for language support — interpretation is often available

Specialized Services for Specific Groups

Settlement services can be tailored to meet the needs of different types of newcomers:

Group	Services Tailored For…
Women & Families	Parenting programs, childcare, domestic safety
Youth	Tutoring, school support, social groups
Refugees	Emergency housing, trauma counseling, legal help
French-Speaking Newcomers	Francophone schools, jobs, community services
Seniors	Health support, community integration, language classes

FAQ: Settlement Services for Newcomers

1. Are settlement services really free?
Yes. If you’re a permanent resident, protected person, or refugee, these services are fully funded by the government.

2. Can I get help if I’m here on a work or study permit?
In some cases, yes — especially for Ukrainian nationals and those under special programs. It’s best to ask your local service provider.

3. What if I don’t speak English or French?
No problem. Many agencies provide translation or interpretation services, and you can sign up for free language classes.

4. Can I use these services before arriving in Canada?
Absolutely. Many organizations offer online services to help you get ready before your flight.

5. Do I need to live in a major city?
Not at all. Smaller towns and rural areas also have settlement agencies, and virtual services are growing quickly.

Final Thoughts

Starting fresh in a new country can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Settlement services in Canada are designed to help newcomers like you build a strong foundation — from finding your first apartment to landing your first job.

So take the first step. Reach out to your local agency, ask questions, and start building your new life in Canada with confidence.

Moving to Canada is a big step, and one of the first — and most important — things you’ll need to figure out is where you’ll live. For newcomers, navigating the rental market can feel confusing, especially without a Canadian credit history or job lined up.

But don’t worry — this guide is here to help. Whether you’ve just landed or are still planning your move, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find safe, affordable housing in Canada.

Where Newcomers Usually Start

Most new immigrants begin with temporary housing and then move into more permanent rentals once they’ve settled in. Here’s a quick look at your options:

Short-Term Housing

• Temporary shelters: Available for those facing financial hardship
• Airbnb or furnished rentals: Great for the first few weeks or months
• Hostels or student residences: Budget-friendly, especially for singles or students
• Newcomer housing through agencies: Offered in some cities, often at reduced rates

Long-Term Rentals

• Apartments from private landlords or companies
• Basement suites: Often more affordable and available in suburban homes
• Co-op housing: Lower cost, but may involve a waitlist
• Subsidized/public housing: Available for low-income residents through applications

Best Places to Search for Rentals

You’ll find plenty of rental listings online, but some platforms are more newcomer-friendly than others:

Platform	Good For	Notes
Kijiji.ca	Private rentals	Be careful of scams, always see the unit in person
Realtor.ca	Verified listings	Best for long-term apartments and houses
Facebook Marketplace	Shared housing & sublets	Make sure profiles are real
PadMapper / Zumper	Apartment hunting	Filter listings by budget, pets, size
Settlement agencies	Subsidized or supported rentals	Free help in many cities

Rent Estimates in 2025 (Monthly Averages)

City	1-BR Apartment	2-BR Apartment	Basement or Shared Room
Toronto, ON	$2,200	$2,700	$800–$1,200
Vancouver, BC	$2,300	$2,900	$850–$1,300
Calgary, AB	$1,450	$1,850	$600–$900
Halifax, NS	$1,400	$1,750	$500–$850
Winnipeg, MB	$1,200	$1,550	$450–$800

Rent will vary by neighborhood and availability, so it’s worth exploring areas outside downtown cores for better deals.

What Landlords Usually Ask For

Even without Canadian credit, you can often still rent — but you’ll need some documents ready:

• Proof of income or job offer
• Immigration or PR confirmation documents
• Bank statements showing savings
• Personal references (employer, teacher, etc.)
• First and last month’s rent upfront (common in most provinces)

Tip: Be upfront about your newcomer status. Many landlords are open to working with new immigrants, especially if you’re well-prepared.

Free Help from Newcomer Services

These agencies offer housing help, referrals, and even temporary accommodations:

Organization	Region	Website
YMCA Newcomer Services	Nationwide	ymcagta.org
COSTI Immigrant Services	Ontario	costi.org
MOSAIC	Vancouver area	mosaicbc.org
ISANS	Nova Scotia	isans.ca
SUCCESS	BC-focused	successbc.ca

Tips to Save on Rent as a Newcomer

• Start small: Shared housing or basement suites can save a lot early on
• Avoid big cities if possible: Explore smaller cities or suburbs
• Use community connections: Religious or cultural groups often help newcomers
• Stay organized: Automatic rent payments help build trust with landlords

Common Questions About Newcomer Housing in Canada

1. Can I rent without a job or credit score?
Yes. You’ll likely need to show bank savings or pay a larger deposit. Many landlords are flexible if you’re honest and have the right paperwork.

2. How do I avoid rental scams?
Never send money before visiting a property. Avoid listings with extremely low prices or urgent demands. Stick to verified listings and get everything in writing.

3. Can I get public housing as a newcomer?
Yes, but there are often long waitlists. Apply early through your local housing authority. Priority usually goes to low-income families or vulnerable individuals.

4. When should I start looking?
If you’re still abroad, start searching 2–4 weeks before arrival. Book short-term housing early to have a place to stay while you look for something long-term.

5. What’s the standard lease in Canada?
Most leases are for 12 months, but some allow month-to-month after that. Be sure to ask about notice periods and early exit fees.

Final Thoughts

Finding housing as a new immigrant in Canada can feel overwhelming — but it’s very doable. With a bit of research, the right documents, and support from local agencies, you’ll be able to find a safe, welcoming home that fits your needs and budget.

Start small, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help. You’re not alone — thousands of newcomers find housing every year and go on to build happy, successful lives in Canada. You’re next.