About LINC
Free English Classes For New Immigrants & Refugees
What is LINC?
LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) is a free program funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). LINC provides basic level English training for adult newcomers to Canada.
What can I learn in LINC?
Practice listening, speaking, reading, and writing English
Learn about Canadian and workplace culture
Learn skills for getting a job
Improve English skills to access community resources
Build network with other newcomers
Learn how to access health, banking, education, legal, family, and social services resources and information
Earn a LINC certificate
What levels of English are taught in LINC?
LINC classes are offered for Literacy to LINC 4
LINC is based off of the official Canadian Standards: Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB)
When you complete a CLB level, you can get a certificate to show your skills
If you complete CLB 4 in speaking and listening, you can use that certificate to meet the citizenship language requirement
Am I eIigible to study in LINC?
Thanks to Federal Government funding through Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) LINC classes are available if you are a :
Permanent Resident aged 17 years or older (PR Card holder)
Newcomer approved for Permanent Residence
Convention Refugee
Economic class immigrants are eligible for IRCC‑funded settlement services for up to six years after becoming permanent residents, or until they become Canadian citizens, whichever comes first. Eligibility term is dictated by the landing date on the official landing paper.
Learn more about eligibility here.
Does LINC offer Childcare ?
To help parents take LINC classes, some LINC providers offer family-centered childcare programs. Check with local LINC providers to find out what childcare options are available in your local community.
Where can I find a LINC Class?
LINC classes are offered in many cities and communities. To find a class near you in BC and Yukon, check out our interactive map.
What documents do I need to register?
PR Card
Original Landing Paper
Assessment Centre Referral Form
LINC Certificate (if you were a LINC client in the past)