Information for the general public
Who is responsible for newcomer settlement?
Immigration is a responsibility shared by the provinces and the federal
government. The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act permits
the Citizenship and Immigration Minister to enter into agreements with
the provinces to provide immigration-related programming.
Citizenship and Immigration Canada has funding agreements with three
provinces with respect to settlement programs and services. Under the
1991 Canada-Québec Accord, Quebec is responsible for settlement
and integration services inside its jurisdiction. More recently British
Columbia and Manitoba have also assumed responsibility for the administration
and delivery of settlement programs and services.
Canada helps newcomers adjust to living in Canada by providing federal
assistance abroad through Canadian posts (counselling and orientation
materials); through international organizations (orientation sessions);
and in Canada (full range of settlement services).
CIC's settlement programs and services help newly arrived immigrants
adapt and settle in Canada and become self-reliant, participating, and
contributing members of Canadian society, as quickly as possible. They
also help Canadians understand the immigration, settlement and integration
process.
Newcomers are most likely to need settlement assistance within the first
year of their arrival, but they may continue to use these services for
a longer period -- up to three years if necessary. Citizens and refugee
claimants are not eligible for federally funded settlement programs and
services.
CIC does not provide services directly to newcomers. Through its network
of local offices, CIC signs contribution agreements with, and provides
funds to, immigrant-serving organizations and other community-based agencies
who deliver the services.
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