Life in Canada

Practical guidance and resources to help newcomers settle in, get connected and thrive in Canada.

Navigating life in a new country can come with many challenges. Along with settling into a new home and adjusting to daily life, newcomers must learn new systems, services, and processes that may be very different from what they are used to.

JIAS offers free Information and Orientation sessions on a wide range of topics, including housing, finances, healthcare, education, employment, community services, and more. These sessions are designed to help newcomers understand life in Canada and feel more confident as they settle and build their future.

Most information sessions are offered online (via Zoom), with some sessions available in person.

Topics that our programs cover:

Getting Started in Canada: Settlement & Orientation - Foundational sessions that help newcomers understand life in Canada and the settlement process.

Housing & Living in Canada

Navigating Legal & Government Systems - Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a newcomer in Canada.

Healthcare & Family Services in Canada - Health, childcare, and family well-being.

Education & Learning Pathways in Canada - Understanding the Canadian education system for children, teens, and adults.

Money, Banking & Taxes - Managing finances in Canada.

Employment & Workplace Integration - Finding work and succeeding in the Canadian workplace.

Immigration, Permanent Residence & Citizenship – Understanding legal pathways and immigration processes.

 

Group of adults posing together in front of a Canadian flag

Newcomer Welcome Fair 

The JIAS Newcomer Welcome Fair is a yearly in-person event that takes place at the end of August, before the start of the school year in Canada.

The Welcome Fair is a one-stop opportunity for newcomers to:

  • Attend multiple in-person information and orientation sessions
  • Meet JIAS staff and connect with other newcomers
  • Learn about JIAS programs and services
  • Access a marketplace with school supplies for children (such as backpacks and school materials)

This event helps families prepare for the upcoming school year while getting introduced to the support available through JIAS.

"I really liked how warm, welcoming, and friendly everyone was. The whole event had a very positive and comfortable atmosphere, and it was clear that a lot of effort went into making everyone feel welcome. I honestly don’t have much to suggest for improvement."

Client at Welcome Fair

Are you a JIAS client?

View and register for our upcoming sessions below.

Upcoming Programs

  • Oct13TueYR - In-Person

    Russian Seniors – Fitness Class RUS

    12:30 PM – 2:30 PMView
  • Oct15ThuOnline

    Energy Saving Workshop with Bill Reading

    7:00 PM – 8:00 PMView
  • Oct19MonOnline

    Applying for PR: Express Entry

    7:00 PM – 8:00 PMView
  • Oct22ThuOnline

    Protecting Your Rights as a Tenant: Essential Rental Housing Information for Newcomers

    7:00 PM – 8:00 PMView
  • Oct26MonOnline

    Introduction to Education – Secondary/High School

    7:00 PM – 8:00 PMView
  • Oct29ThuOnline

    Know Your Rights, Stay Safe: Police & Community Safety in Toronto

    7:00 PM – 8:00 PMView

Become a JIAS Client

Ready to get started?

Fill out the form below and a member of our team will connect with you to guide your next steps.

Register Here