Every SOPA participant works directly with settlement and employment professionals to develop the knowledge, skills, and connections needed for a successful transition to Canada. Services include:

• • A planning session to assess settlement and career goals, identify strengths, and create a personalized settlement plan
  • Career coaching with an Employment Counsellor in your destination province, including labour market information, resume and interview support, and a career action plan
  • Interactive facilitated and self-guided courses covering job search strategies, workplace communication, complex conversations, collaboration, Canadian workplace culture, workplace integration, and other employment readiness topics. Participants receive a certificate of completion at the end of each course. 
  • Networking opportunities with employers, regulatory bodies, industry professionals, and fellow newcomers
  • Foreign Credential Recognition (FCR) guidance and support for regulated professions
  • Support before arrival and post-arrival follow up to help participants continue progressing toward their settlement and employment objectives

Here are the eligibility criteria to participate in SOPA

• Live outside Canada
• Have received approval from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to immigrate to Canada. You must have one of the following documents:
  • A confirmation of Permanent Residence document
  • A letter notifying pick up of Canadian visa (for permanent resident applicants only)
  • An information sheet that proves you’ve completed your immigration medical exam (for permanent resident applicants only) 
  • A passport request letter that says you’ve been issued a permanent resident visa 
  • A single-entry permanent resident visa
  • An IRCC invitation letter to obtain pre-arrival services
  • Basic to high English Skills (some parts of the program are appropriate for low level English speakers, most of the services are for medium to high level English speakers) 

Select the SOPA Pre-Arrival Program during your registration. Prepare to have applicable documents ready to upload to your registration.