Fédération des francophones de la Colombie-Britannique to Lead Pre-Arrival Services Initiative
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Significant Announcement for Newcomers
On January 28, 2019, in Vancouver, BC, it was announced that pre-arrival settlement services are an integral part of Canada’s immigration strategy. These services equip newcomers, including refugees, with crucial information and support to make informed choices about their lives in Canada, such as job preparation, before they arrive. To facilitate these services, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is allocating $1.7 million to the Fédération des francophones de la Colombie-Britannique (FFCB).
Enhanced Support for Francophone Newcomers
FFCB’s Role in Settlement Services
The FFCB is one among four regional Francophone partners tasked with delivering province-specific information to Francophone immigrants. This collaborative partnership is part of IRCC’s strategy to bolster the Francophone Settlement Pathway. La Cité will serve as the primary contact point, providing general information and conducting needs assessments, subsequently referring clients destined for British Columbia to the FFCB.
IRCC’s renewed pre-arrival services program aims to enhance social integration and economic contribution of newcomers by:
- Creating a streamlined process to connect clients with essential information and services
- Implementing a collaborative partnership model for Francophone pre-arrival services
- Offering employment services tailored to general, regional, and occupational needs
- Encouraging newcomers to apply for job licensure prior to arrival
- Linking clients to federal and provincial settlement services across Canada
Government Perspectives
“Pre-arrival services equip permanent residents with the information and support needed to make informed decisions and begin integrating into Canadian life before they arrive. The renewed program ensures high-quality, client-focused services globally.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“I am pleased that IRCC selected the Fédération des francophones de la Colombie-Britannique for this vital task. This investment will meet the needs of Francophone newcomers before they arrive in British Columbia.”
– Terry Beech, Member of Parliament for Burnaby North—Seymour
Key Information
- IRCC initiated an expression of interest in May 2018 to gather proposals for economic/family class and Francophone pre-arrival services. Sixteen skilled service provider organizations (SPOs) were selected to offer virtual and in-person services globally beginning January 1, 2019.
- Funding for these 16 SPOs through 2023 amounts to approximately $113 million.
- Canada has supported pre-arrival services since 1998, expanding these services to non-refugee immigrants in 2001.
- In-person services are available in China, India, and the Philippines, with a pilot project for Francophone services in Morocco.
Contact Information
Media Inquiries
Mathieu Genest
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQs
What are pre-arrival settlement services?
Pre-arrival settlement services provide newcomers with essential information and support to help them prepare for life in Canada, even before they arrive.
How does the Fédération des francophones de la Colombie-Britannique contribute?
The FFCB offers province-specific information and resources to Francophone newcomers, aiding their settlement and integration into Canada.
What is the Francophone Settlement Pathway?
This initiative is part of IRCC’s efforts to enhance services specifically for Francophone immigrants, ensuring they receive tailored support throughout the settlement process.
For further guidance, Read our immigration guide.
