Connecting Afghan Newcomers to Jobs in Canada
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Canada Welcomes Afghan Refugees
The Canadian government is dedicated to resettling at least 40,000 Afghan nationals swiftly and securely. So far, Canada has welcomed 9,560 Afghan refugees, with new arrivals continuing each week.
The Role of Employment in Integration
Securing employment is pivotal for newcomers, offering them independence and a sense of community. ACCES Employment, a prominent organization in the Greater Toronto Area, excels at linking diverse job seekers with employers like Maple Leaf Foods and Rogers, supporting Afghan refugees.
Services Offered by ACCES
- Mentorship support
- Language and translation assistance
- Job search workshops on resume and interview skills
- Work placements
- Onboarding and post-hire guidance
ACCES has organized seven virtual job fairs, allowing Afghan newcomers to connect with potential employers, resulting in numerous interviews and job offers.
Expanding Opportunities Nationwide
ACCES is collaborating with TalentPool in Calgary for larger job fairs across Canada. Additionally, they have partnered with IKEA Canada to offer a Customer Experience Training Program, providing refugees with customer service skills and mentorship opportunities at IKEA.
Media can access photos of Afghan refugee arrivals. Track Canada’s efforts to welcome Afghan refugees.
Testimonials
“Service provider organizations are crucial for integrating newcomers. It’s encouraging to see businesses hiring Afghan refugees. Every newcomer deserves to contribute to our society, vital for our post-pandemic recovery. We rely on our partners to fulfill our resettlement commitments.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“ACCES is dedicated to eliminating barriers for newcomers and refugees. Our strength lies in resource management and community connections, positively impacting those in need. We are eager to continue supporting Afghan refugees.”
– Allison Pond, President and CEO, ACCES Employment
Key Information
- IRCC funds over 500 organizations through the Settlement Program, aiding newcomers with services and programs.
- The Settlement Program helps newcomers, including refugees, overcome integration barriers.
- Afghan refugees have settled in over 90 Canadian communities, from cities to rural areas.
- ACCES Employment assists over 40,000 job seekers annually, working with 2,500 employers, supported by government funding, including IRCC.
Useful Links
Media Contacts
For media inquiries:
Aidan Strickland
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Aidan.Strickland@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Afghan refugees has Canada welcomed so far?
Canada has welcomed 9,560 Afghan refugees, with more arriving weekly.
What services does ACCES Employment provide?
ACCES Employment offers mentoring, language support, job search workshops, work placements, and onboarding support.
How is ACCES expanding its reach?
ACCES is partnering with TalentPool in Calgary and launching a national training program with IKEA Canada.
For more insights and guidance, Read our immigration guide.

