Resources for immigrants and refugees

If you are a newcomer to Canada and Ottawa, the first place to contact is the Newcomer Information Centre (NIC)

The Newcomer Information Centre is the first stop for all newcomers to Canada. They provide free information and referral services to help you find everything you need to settle into your new life in Ottawa.

Hours of Operation:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Friday: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm

Contact Information:

150 Isabella Street, suite 201
Ottawa, Ontario
K1S 1V7
tel: 613-788-5001
fax: 613-788-5051
Email: nic@ymcaywca.ca

Normally, if you are looking for housing on the private market, you are encouraged to use the drop-in centre at the Action Housing or Housing Help main offices; please note that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the self-search drop-in centres are currently not operational. In our drop-in centres, we have up-to-date listings for you to look though as well as phones provided to help you contact landlords directly. People with literacy or language barriers are welcome to bring someone to assist them.