Free Newcomer and Pre-Arrival Services for Afghans Coming to Canada

Canada funds a wide range of free settlement and pre-arrival services for newcomers — including Afghans. This resource explains what services are available, when and how to access them, and which organizations specifically serve Afghan communities.

This resource explains the federally and provincially funded newcomer settlement services available to Afghan refugees and immigrants in Canada — including pre-arrival services for those still abroad, settlement services upon arrival, language training, employment assistance, and community connection programs. It also identifies Afghan-specific and Dari-language serving organizations in major Canadian cities.

The settlement system in Canada is extensive but can be difficult to navigate for someone who has just arrived — particularly if there are language barriers, trauma, or unfamiliarity with Canadian institutions. Many Afghans are entitled to free services they do not know about. Accessing settlement services early — including before arrival when possible — significantly improves integration outcomes, including employment, language acquisition, and mental health.

• IRCC funds a national network of settlement service providers — services are free for eligible newcomers including refugees, protected persons, and permanent residents
• Settlement services include: language training (LINC — Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada), employment counseling, orientation to Canada, community connection programs, and translation or interpretation referrals
• Pre-arrival services: IRCC funds pre-arrival services for qualifying newcomers who are still abroad — these include orientation, employment preparation, and connection to settlement organizations in Canada before landing
• Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP): government-assisted refugees receive up to one year of direct financial support and case management through the RAP — delivered by funded settlement organizations
• Mental health services: settlement organizations increasingly include mental health supports relevant to Afghan newcomers — including trauma-informed care and referrals to culturally appropriate counselors