First steps in Ontario: trusted sources for newcomers

Arriving in a new country comes with a long list of tasks, from paperwork to finding a community. Reliable information makes each step easier. This guide points to official sources first and explains how to recognise people you can trust with your immigration matters.

Start with official sources

• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): status, permits, permanent residence and citizenship
• Service Canada: your Social Insurance Number (SIN) and federal benefits
• ServiceOntario: your Ontario health card and driver’s licence
• Settlement.org: plain-language settlement information for Ontario

Protect yourself from immigration fraud

Only authorised representatives may charge a fee to advise or represent you on immigration matters: lawyers and paralegals who are members of a Canadian law society, notaries in Quebec, and consultants licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants. You can check a consultant’s licence on the College’s public register.

Build your local network

Settlement agencies, public libraries and community organizations can connect you with language classes, employment programs and local services. In Ontario, you can also call or text 211 to find community and social services near you.

How CCJ can help

• Orientation for newcomers
• Settlement information
• Referrals to licensed immigration professionals
• Help understanding forms (without advice)

CCJ provides settlement information and referrals only; we do not provide regulated immigration services. Complete our intake form to tell us what you need.

CCJ Community Education Team

Canadian Community Justice publishes plain-language information to support access to justice and community well-being.