Why SOPA Works for You
- Pre-arrival focus: Start your Canadian journey with confidence before landing.
- Personalized support: Guidance tailored to your goals and province.
- Skill-building: Courses and counselling help you develop the tools to succeed.
- Connections: Meet peers, professionals, and community members to build a strong network.
One-on-one Orientation Session
Your SOPA journey begins with a one-on-one session with an Intake Counsellor from your destination province.
In this session, you will:
- Share your career and settlement goals
- Receive a personalized action plan for settlement
- Get referrals to SOPA courses, employment counselling, and community services
- Learn about supports available in your new province
- Ask questions and feel confident about your next steps
This first step ensures you have a clear roadmap to arrive prepared for work and life in Canada.
Online Courses
During your Intake Session, your counsellor will help you choose the right SOPA courses.
Options include:
- Facilitated online courses – learn with experienced instructors
- Self-guided course – study at your own pace
Courses help you:
- Build job search skills tailored to the Canadian job market
- Improve workplace communication
- Gain confidence to start working sooner after arrival
Whether you already have a job offer or are still searching, SOPA courses give you the tools and knowledge to succeed.
Employment Counselling
Our Employment Specialists provide personalized guidance tailored to your province and profession.
In these sessions, you will:
- Get advice for your job search in your destination province
- Adapt your résumé, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile for Canadian employers
- Practice interviews and workplace communication
- Learn about networking and mentorship opportunities
- Build a step-by-step employment plan
For regulated professions: Your Employment Specialist can connect you with a Foreign Credential Recognition Navigator for guidance on licensing, credential recognition, and the steps needed to work in your field.
Note: Employment counselling is pre-arrival only. After you arrive, continue your job search and settlement support through local agencies.
Canada Connects
Connect with other newcomers and community members before you arrive in Canada.
In these sessions, you will:
- Meet people who share your journey
- Learn about local culture and available services
- Start building a supportive network in your new community
These connections help you feel welcomed and supported from the very beginning.
Information and Orientation Sessions
Join live sessions that prepare you for life in Canada.
In these sessions, you will:
- Take part in National sessions on rights and responsibilities, financial literacy, Canadian culture, mental health, gender equity, 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion, Indigenous history, and more
- Join Specialized sessions for youth, women, and refugees
- Access Local sessions with practical guidance on housing, healthcare, schools, cost of living, and community services in your province
- Hear from Regional representatives who highlight the benefits of living in smaller or rural communities
Note: Sessions are live and require registration.
Register Today
Arrive one step ahead. Pre-arrival services that are initiated earlier in your immigration journey will help you effectively address your needs and build connections within your new local community and between pre-arrival and post arrival services.
SOPA Staff understand the importance of early action and preparation, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Which province are you going to?