Calgary

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Immigration Support

Support services for newcomers, including help with immigration documents and settlement programs.

Sections

1. Settlement Services

Settlement services are designed to help newcomers adjust to life in Calgary. These services are often free and funded by the government or non-profit organizations.

Key Organizations and Services

  • Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS):

    • Services: Orientation, language training, employment support, housing assistance, and youth programs.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Visit their website (ccisab.ca) or call their office to book an appointment. Walk-ins are also accepted at their main office.
    • Local Consideration: You do not need to be Catholic to access their services; they are open to all.

  • Immigrant Services Calgary (ISC):

    • Services: Settlement counseling, language assessment, employment workshops, and family support.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Register online at immigrantservicescalgary.ca or visit their office.
    • Local Consideration: ISC offers services in over 70 languages, making it accessible to diverse communities.

  • Centre for Newcomers:

    • Services: Settlement support, cultural training, youth programs, and employment services.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Visit their website (centrefornewcomers.ca) or call to schedule an appointment.
    • Local Consideration: They also offer Indigenous education programs to help newcomers understand Canadaโ€™s Indigenous history and culture.

2. Language Training

Language proficiency is crucial for integration. Calgary offers several free or low-cost programs to help immigrants improve their English skills.

Key Programs

  • Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC):

    • Description: Free English classes funded by the federal government.
    • Eligibility: Permanent residents and convention refugees.
    • How to Access: Take a language assessment at Immigrant Services Calgary or another designated center.
    • Local Consideration: Classes are offered at various levels, and childcare services may be available.

  • Bow Valley College โ€“ English Language Learning (ELL):

    • Description: Offers both free and paid English courses.
    • Cost: Free for LINC-eligible students; fees apply for other programs.
    • How to Access: Apply online or visit the college for more information.
    • Local Consideration: Bow Valley College is centrally located, making it accessible via public transit.

  • Calgary Public Library โ€“ ESL Programs:

    • Description: Free conversation circles and language resources.
    • Cost: Free with a library membership (library cards are free).
    • How to Access: Sign up for a library card and register for programs online or in person.
    • Local Consideration: Libraries are community hubs, offering additional resources like job search tools and cultural events.

3. Employment Support

Finding a job is a top priority for many immigrants. Calgary has several organizations that provide job search assistance, resume writing workshops, and networking opportunities.

Key Resources

  • Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Council (CRIEC):

    • Services: Mentorship programs, networking events, and career coaching.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Apply online at criec.ca.
    • Local Consideration: CRIEC focuses on helping skilled immigrants connect with professionals in their field.

  • Momentum:

    • Services: Job readiness training, financial literacy, and small business support.
    • Cost: Free or low-cost, depending on the program.
    • How to Access: Visit momentum.org to register.
    • Local Consideration: Momentum also offers microloans for immigrants looking to start a business.

  • YYC Employment Services:

    • Services: Resume building, interview preparation, and job placement.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Contact them via their website or visit their office.
    • Local Consideration: They work closely with local employers to match candidates with job openings.

4. Housing Assistance

Finding affordable housing can be challenging in Calgary, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with the city.

Key Resources

  • Calgary Housing Company (CHC):

    • Services: Subsidized housing for low-income families.
    • Cost: Rent is based on income.
    • How to Access: Apply online at calgaryhousingcompany.org.
    • Local Consideration: There may be a waiting list, so apply as early as possible.

  • Renting in Calgary:

    • Description: Private rentals are widely available, but costs vary by neighborhood.
    • Cost: Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around CAD $1,500/month (as of 2023).
    • How to Access: Use websites like rentfaster.ca or kijiji.ca to find listings.
    • Local Consideration: Be cautious of rental scams; always view the property in person before making payments.

  • Inn from the Cold:

    • Services: Emergency shelter and transitional housing for families.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Contact them directly via their website (innfromthecold.org).
    • Local Consideration: This is a short-term solution for families in crisis.

5. Healthcare Access

New immigrants in Alberta are eligible for healthcare coverage under the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

Steps to Register for AHCIP

  1. Gather required documents:
    • Passport.
    • Work/study permit or confirmation of permanent residence.
    • Proof of Alberta address (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement).
  2. Visit a registry office in Calgary.
  3. Complete the AHCIP application form.
  4. Receive your health card in the mail.

Local Considerations

  • Healthcare is free for most services, but dental and vision care are not covered. Consider purchasing private insurance for additional coverage.
  • Walk-in clinics are widely available, but wait times can vary.

6. Transportation

Calgary has an efficient public transit system, making it easy for newcomers to navigate the city.

Key Information

  • Calgary Transit:

    • Services: Buses and C-Trains (light rail).
    • Cost: CAD $112/month for an adult pass; discounts available for low-income individuals through the Fair Entry program.
    • How to Access: Purchase tickets or passes at stations, online, or via the MyFare app.
    • Local Consideration: The C-Train is free to ride within the downtown core.

  • Fair Entry Program:

    • Description: Provides discounted transit passes and other city services for low-income residents.
    • How to Apply: Submit an application online or in person at a Calgary Service Centre with proof of income.

7. Legal and Immigration Support

Navigating immigration paperwork can be complex. Calgary offers resources to help with legal and immigration-related issues.

Key Resources

  • Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):

    • Services: Visa applications, permanent residency, and citizenship.
    • Cost: Varies by application type.
    • How to Access: Visit canada.ca/immigration.
    • Local Consideration: Processing times can be lengthy, so apply early.

  • Pro Bono Law Alberta:

    • Services: Free or low-cost legal advice for low-income individuals.
    • How to Access: Visit pbla.ca to find a participating lawyer.
    • Local Consideration: Focuses on civil and family law, not immigration law.

  • ActionDignity:

    • Services: Advocacy and support for immigrant communities.
    • Cost: Free.
    • How to Access: Visit actiondignity.org.
    • Local Consideration: They work closely with cultural communities to address systemic barriers.

8. Cultural and Social Integration

Building a social network and understanding local customs are essential for integration.

Key Resources

  • Ethno-Cultural Organizations:

    • Calgary is home to many cultural associations that host events and provide support (e.g., the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre, the Calgary Immigrant Womenโ€™s Association).
    • Cost: Free or low-cost.
    • How to Access: Search online for organizations related to your cultural background.

  • Volunteer Opportunities:

    • Volunteering is a great way to meet people and gain Canadian experience.
    • Visit volunteerconnector.org to find opportunities.

Final Tips for New Immigrants in Calgary

  • Weather: Calgary experiences cold winters; invest in warm clothing and learn about winter safety.
  • Banking: Open a Canadian bank account as soon as possible. Many banks offer newcomer packages with no fees for the first year.
  • Community Events: Attend local festivals like the Calgary Stampede to experience the cityโ€™s culture and meet new people.

By utilizing these resources and services, newcomers can successfully navigate their transition to life in Calgary.