What Benefits Do Immigrants Get in Canada?

Canada offers a range of benefits and services to help newcomers settle, stay healthy, and support their families. What you qualify for depends on your status (permanent resident, refugee, temporary resident) and the province or territory you live in.

Here are some of the key benefits many immigrants can access.

Get Set Up With KOHO Essential

Once you arrive, you’ll need a place for your paycheque, benefits, and day-to-day spending.

KOHO Essential is a no fee account that can help you get started:

• Unlock the Essential plan with no fees by setting up direct deposit or adding $1,000

• Grow your savings with a 2% interest savings rate on your entire balance

• Earn 1% cash back on groceries, eating & drinking, transportation

• Send money to 190+ countries quickly and securely with the best exchange rates and no hidden markups or other-worldly fees

Health Care Coverage

Canada has a public health care system funded by taxes. Citizens and permanent residents can apply for provincial or territorial health insurance, which covers many doctor visits, hospital stays, and medical services.

Key points:

• New permanent residents can usually apply for a health card soon after arriving (some provinces have a short waiting period).

• Certain refugees and protected persons may get temporary federal health coverage through the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) until they’re eligible for provincial coverage.

Always check the rules in your specific province or territory.

Newcomer and Language Services

The federal government funds free settlement and language services to help immigrants adjust to life in Canada, including:

• Language classes in English or French (LINC/CLIC) for eligible permanent residents and protected persons

• Help with things like job search, housing, and daily life

• Language assessments and referrals so you’re placed in the right level

These programs are designed to make it easier to work, study, and participate in Canadian society.

Child and Family Benefits

If you have children and meet the residency and income requirements, you may qualify for the Canada Child Benefit (CCB):

• A tax-free monthly payment to help with the cost of raising children under 18

• Amounts are based on family income, number of children, and their ages

There are also provincial and territorial programs that layer on top of federal benefits, depending on where you live.

Public Education

Children in Canada can attend publicly funded elementary and secondary schools, usually at no direct cost to families (aside from some supplies and activities). This applies to most children who live in the province and have the right immigration status.

Education is run by each province/territory, but the overall idea is the same: newcomers’ kids can join the school system and learn alongside everyone else.

Tax Credits and Other Supports

Depending on your situation and income, you may also qualify for:

• GST/HST credits (tax-free payments to help with sales tax costs)

• Certain provincial credits or benefits (like energy, housing, or cost-of-living supports)

• Additional supports if you have a disability or lower income

Most of these benefits are based on your tax return, so filing your taxes each year is important—even with a low income.