How Planning for Canada Works
A flexible pre-arrival program that helps you prepare with confidence.
Once Eligibility is Confirmed
Clients can register for available services and select sessions that match their needs and availability.
Check Eligibility and Register
What Happens First
Before participating in Planning for Canada services, please confirm you are eligible. Eligibility is verified using one official document that confirms your approval to immigrate to Canada or participate in the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).What counts as an IRCC document?
An official IRCC document confirms that you’ve been approved to immigrate to Canada and are eligible for pre-arrival services. Common examples include:- IRCC invitation to obtain pre-arrival services
- Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) letter/document
- Passport request letter that indicates Permanent Resident Visa issuance
- IRCC request that an applicant for permanent residence complete a medical examination
- Single-Entry Permanent Resident Visa
- Permanent Resident Visa pick-up notification letter
- Once registration is complete, the eligibility will be confirmed and services offered will commence.
- Registration typically takes about five minutes
- Available only to individuals living outside Canada
How the Program Works
Planning for Canada is designed to be flexible. During registration, you will be asked to select an Immigrant Workshop, and/or One-on-One Session from a list of possible times and dates.
Once you have completed your registration and your eligibility has been confirmed, you will receive an email confirming the date and time of your chosen sessions. We will contact you closer to the session dates with a reminder and details on how to access the live Immigrant Workshop and One-on-One Session.
YOU
(Eligible Client)
Your goals, timeline, and destination
One-on-One Sessions
Personalized planning
Immigrant Workshops
Live group sessions
Learn about life and work in Canada
Connections to
In-Canada Advisors
Local expertise
Self-Directed services
E-learning and e-library
Available to registered clients
Immigrant Workshops
Live group sessions
Immigrant Workshops are live, interactive group sessions that help you understand what to expect about living and working in Canada. You can choose from different workshop options depending on your interests and preparation needs.
One-on-One Planning Sessions
Personalized guidance
One-on-One Sessions offer personalized guidance tailored to your destination, career goals, and family needs. These sessions help you clarify priorities, identify next steps, and build a practical Settlement Plan.
Connections to In-Canada Advisors
Local expertise, before arrival
At the end of a One-on-One Session, you will be connected with in-Canada advisors based on their destination and intended occupation. These advisors help put your Settlement Plan into action through tailored support, guidance and referrals based on needs.
Self-Directed Services & Resources
Self-directed support
All registered clients have access to self-directed services, including e-learning modules, simulations and a comprehensive e-library. These resources complement guided services and are available throughout your preparation.
Stay on Track as You Prepare
Preparing for your move involves many steps and documents. To help you stay organized, Planning for Canada offers a Pre-Arrival Document Checklist you can use to track what you’ll need before travelling to Canada.
Who Can Use Planning for Canada?
Planning for Canada is available to approved immigrants who are currently living outside Canada and have received an official document confirming their eligibility for pre-arrival services.
You may be eligible if you are an approved applicant under:
- An Economic or Family Class immigration pathway
- The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
You are not eligible if:
- You are already living in Canada
- You hold a temporary worker or student visa
- You are a visitor or a refugee
If you’re not eligible yet, you can still access free guides and resources to help you prepare while you wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Planning for Canada?
Is Planning for Canada really free?
Yes. All Planning for Canada services are funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and are provided at no cost to eligible participants.
What happens after I register?
After registering, you will receive an email confirming the selected session and services start.
Do I need to attend all services?
The Immigrant Workshop and One-on-One Session are core components of the program. Additional learning resources and webinars are optional and available to support your preparation.
Can I access services from anywhere in the world?
Yes. All Planning for Canada services are delivered online and are available to eligible participants worldwide.