LINC: Free Language Classes for Newcomers in Canada

Key Takeaway: LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) provides completely free English language classes to eligible permanent residents and protected persons across Canada. The program covers CLB levels 1 through 8 (some locations up to 10), includes settlement-related topics like employment and housing, and many providers offer free childcare and transportation assistance. Quebec has its own separate program called francisation.

What is LINC?

LINC stands for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada. It is a federally funded program administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that provides free English language classes to eligible adult newcomers ^[1][2].

The program was established in 1992 and has been a core part of Canada's settlement services for over 30 years ^[3]. LINC is not a single school or organization. IRCC funds hundreds of third-party service provider organizations (SPOs) across Canada to deliver classes, including community organizations, school boards, colleges, and non-profit agencies ^[1][2].

The French-language equivalent is called CLIC (Cours de langue pour les immigrants au Canada), which follows the same model but teaches French ^[1].

What does LINC teach?

LINC is more than just a language class. The curriculum integrates settlement-related content alongside English instruction ^[1]:

• Job searching and workplace culture in Canada
• Housing and tenancy rights
• Banking and financial literacy
• The Canadian citizenship process
• Healthcare system navigation
• Canadian laws, rights, and responsibilities

This means you learn practical knowledge about life in Canada while improving your English skills.

How is LINC different from ESL?

Feature	LINC	ESL (English as a Second Language)	CLIC
Language	English	English	French
Funder	Federal (IRCC)	Provincial/territorial, or private	Federal (IRCC)
Cost	Free	Varies (some free, some paid)	Free
Eligibility	PRs, protected persons, certain others [8]	Generally open to all residents	PRs, protected persons, certain others [8]
Curriculum	CLB-based + settlement content	Varies by provider	NCLC-based + settlement content
Levels	Typically CLB 1 to 8 (some to CLB 10+)	Varies	NCLC 1 to 8+

Who can attend LINC?

Eligible persons

As of 2026, the following persons are eligible for LINC and other federally funded settlement services ^[8]:

• Permanent residents (PRs), including resettled refugees
• Approved permanent residence applicants (with a confirmation letter from IRCC showing approval in principle)
• Protected persons who received a positive decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB)
• Temporary residents (or their dependants) in certain employment programs:
  • Atlantic Immigration Program
  • Rural and Northern Immigration Program
• Persons approved under certain special pathways (e.g., Palestinians who left Gaza on or after September 1, 2023, and their families, until March 31, 2027)
• Participants of the Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (including families)

Always verify your eligibility directly with IRCC or a local language assessment and referral centre. Use the IRCC service finder to locate services near you ^[8].

If you recently arrived in Canada as a permanent resident through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program, you are eligible for LINC immediately.

Who is NOT eligible?

• Canadian citizens - they can access provincial ESL programs instead ^[11]
• International students on study permits
• Visitor visa holders (tourists)
• Most temporary foreign workers (unless in the specific programs listed above)
• Refugee claimants who have not yet received a positive decision from the IRB

Age requirement

LINC is designed for adult learners aged 18 and older. Children and youth have separate school-based language support programs ^[1][2].

Can you work while attending?

Yes. There is no employment restriction. Both employed and unemployed newcomers can attend LINC. If you are receiving Employment Insurance (EI), you can attend LINC classes while meeting your EI reporting requirements. Full-time, part-time, evening, and weekend schedules are available to accommodate working learners ^[1].

How do you enroll in LINC?

Step 1: Get a language assessment

Before registering for LINC, you must have your language skills formally assessed using the Canadian Language Benchmarks Placement Test (CLBPT) ^[1][10].

Where to get assessed:

• Use the IRCC service finder to find a language assessment centre near you ^[8]
• In BC, contact the Vancouver Language Assessment Centre or Options Language Assessment & Referral Centre in Surrey ^[10]
• The assessment is completely free

What to expect:

• The test evaluates your Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing skills
• You receive a CLB level score for each skill
• You receive a Canadian Language Benchmark Report showing your levels

Step 2: Gather your documents

You typically need ^[10]:

• Identification (Permanent Resident Card or government-issued proof of status)
• Your Canadian Language Benchmark Report (from the assessment)
• Provincial health card (e.g., BC Care Card)

Step 3: Register for classes

• Visit a LINC provider in your area with your CLB report
• Choose a class that matches your CLB level and schedule preference (full-time, part-time, evening, weekend, or online)
• Complete the LINC application form

Step 4: Start classes

Classes are available in various formats. You can attend as long as you need - there is no fixed end date for participation ^[1].

How much does LINC cost?

LINC is completely free. There are no tuition fees, registration fees, or materials fees for eligible participants ^[1][2][10].

Are there wait times?

Wait times vary by location, CLB level, and time of year. Popular levels (CLB 3 to 5) in large cities may have longer waitlists. Contact your local assessment centre or service provider for current wait time information.

What are CLB levels?

The Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) is a 12-level scale that describes English language ability. LINC classes are structured around this system ^[5]:

Stage I: Basic (CLB 1 to 4)

Level	What you can do
CLB 1	Understand and use very basic phrases for immediate needs
CLB 2	Handle simple, routine tasks and exchanges
CLB 3	Handle familiar, everyday situations with some difficulty
CLB 4	Participate in everyday conversations; meets the citizenship language requirement for speaking and listening [1]

Stage II: Intermediate (CLB 5 to 8)

Level	What you can do
CLB 5	Handle most situations in daily life
CLB 6	Communicate with some confidence in familiar contexts
CLB 7	Communicate effectively in most social and routine professional contexts
CLB 8	Communicate with considerable effectiveness and independence

Stage III: Advanced (CLB 9 to 12)

Level	What you can do
CLB 9 to 10	Communicate fluently and accurately in most contexts
CLB 11 to 12	Near-native proficiency; handle complex academic and professional discourse

Most LINC programs offer classes from CLB 1 through CLB 8. Some providers in larger urban centres offer classes up to CLB 10 or beyond, but availability of higher-level classes (CLB 7+) varies significantly by location ^[1][4][7].

Why does CLB 4 matter?

CLB 4 in speaking and listening is the minimum language requirement for Canadian citizenship ^[1]. Many newcomers aim for this level as a first milestone. If you are planning to apply for citizenship, reaching CLB 4 through LINC gives you proof of language ability that IRCC accepts.

What class formats are available?

In-person classes

• Full-time: Typically 20 to 25 hours per week, Monday to Friday ^[1]
• Part-time: Typically 6 to 15 hours per week
• Evening classes: Available at some providers for working learners
• Weekend classes: Available at some providers

Online LINC

Online LINC classes are available for learners who cannot attend in person. Delivery methods include ^[9]:

• Live online classes via video conferencing
• Blended learning (combination of online and in-person)
• Self-paced online modules
• The Avenue.ca platform (formerly LearnIT2teach), a national online learning management system used by many LINC providers

Online LINC is particularly important for learners in rural areas or territories with limited in-person options.

How long can you attend?

There is no fixed maximum duration for LINC participation. You can continue attending as long as you remain eligible and continue to progress through CLB levels. Some learners attend for a few months; others for several years ^[1].

What supports are available?

Free childcare

Many LINC providers offer free childcare (often called "LINC Care for Newcomer Children" or "childminding") while parents attend classes. This is not available at all locations - check with your local provider when registering ^[1].

Transportation assistance

Some LINC providers offer transportation assistance (bus passes, transit subsidies) to help learners get to and from classes. Availability varies by provider and location ^[1].

Literacy classes

Some providers offer classes specifically for learners who have limited reading and writing skills in any language. These literacy LINC classes teach basic literacy alongside English ^[1].

How does LINC work in each province?

LINC is a federal program, but delivery varies significantly across provinces because IRCC contracts with local service providers. Here is a breakdown for each province and territory.

British Columbia

Key providers:

• ISSofBC (Immigrant Services Society of BC) - multiple locations in Metro Vancouver ^[10]
• Options Community Services - Language Assessment & Referral Centres in Surrey and Coquitlam ^[10]
• Vancouver Language Assessment Centre at 2525 Commercial Drive, Vancouver ^[10]
• Various community organizations, school boards, and colleges

Assessment centres:

• Vancouver Language Assessment Centre (Vancouver/Richmond residents)
• Options Language Assessment & Referral Centre, Surrey (other Metro Vancouver areas)
• Coquitlam Assessment Centre ^[10]

CLB levels available: CLB 1 to 8 widely available; some providers offer up to CLB 10. Higher levels (CLB 7+) may have limited availability outside Metro Vancouver.

Format: Both online and in-person. Childcare and transportation available at some locations.

Alberta

Key providers:

• NorQuest College, Bow Valley College
• Catholic Social Services
• Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers
• Calgary Immigrant Women's Association
• Multiple community-based organizations

CLB levels available: CLB 1 to 8 generally available. A 2018 report by the Alberta Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies (AAISA) found that availability of CLB 5+ classes was limited, particularly outside Edmonton and Calgary ^[7].

Key issue: Alberta has historically had challenges offering sufficient higher-level LINC classes (CLB 5 to 8). Learners seeking intermediate and advanced training may face waitlists or lack of local options, especially in smaller communities ^[7].

Format: Both online and in-person in urban centres. Rural access may be limited to online options.

Saskatchewan

Key providers:

• Saskatchewan Intercultural Association
• Regina Open Door Society
• Saskatoon Open Door Society
• Global Gathering Place (Saskatoon)

CLB levels available: CLB 1 to 8 in larger centres (Regina, Saskatoon). More limited in smaller communities.

Format: Both online and in-person. Online important for rural areas.

Manitoba

Key providers:

• Manitoba Start (employment-focused settlement services)
• Immigrant Centre Manitoba
• English Online (online delivery)
• Various settlement agencies in Winnipeg

CLB levels available: CLB 1 to 8, primarily in Winnipeg. Limited options in rural Manitoba.

Format: Both online and in-person. Manitoba Start and English Online offer remote options.

Ontario

Ontario has the largest number of LINC providers, reflecting the province's high volume of newcomer arrivals.

Key providers:

• YMCA GTA - Language Assessment & Referral services and LINC classes across the Greater Toronto Area ^[12]
• TCCSA (The Cross-Cultural Community Services Association) - LINC classes in Peel Centre (Mississauga) and York Centre (Markham) ^[9]
• OCASI (Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants) - umbrella organization
• Multiple school boards (Toronto DSB, Peel DSB, etc.)
• Colleges (George Brown, Humber, Seneca, Centennial) ^[12]

CLB levels available: CLB 1 to 8 widely available. Some providers in Toronto, Ottawa, and other major centres offer classes up to CLB 10. LINC 5 to 7 classroom activities and curricula are specifically developed for Ontario providers ^[9].

Ontario also has provincial ESL programs through school boards available to all Ontario residents (not just PRs), offering beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels ^[11].

Format: Both online and in-person widely available. Childcare available at many locations.

Quebec - NOT LINC

Quebec does not participate in LINC.

Under the Canada-Quebec Accord (1991), Quebec has sole responsibility for its own immigration settlement services, including language training. The federal government transfers funding to Quebec, which administers its own programs ^[6].

Program name: Francisation (French language learning programs)

Key features ^[6]:

• Free French courses to all persons 16+ living in Quebec (broader eligibility than LINC - not restricted to PRs)
• Full-time courses: 25 to 30 hours per week, 10-week sessions, Monday to Friday
• Part-time courses: 4 to 24 hours per week, 8 to 12 week sessions, day/evening, weekdays/weekends
• Online courses: Self-paced, intermediate and advanced levels
• Specialized courses by field of employment
• Financial assistance available to immigrants under certain conditions
• Courses available from abroad for persons planning to settle in Quebec

Key differences from LINC:

• Teaches French (not English)
• Open to all Quebec residents 16+, not just PRs and protected persons
• Managed by provincial government (MIFI / Francisation Quebec), not IRCC
• Uses its own level system (not CLB)

New Brunswick

Key providers:

• Multicultural Association of the Greater Moncton Area (MAGMA)
• Saint John Newcomers Centre
• Fredericton Multicultural Association

CLB levels available: CLB 1 to 8. Limited higher-level class availability due to smaller newcomer population.

CLIC (French): Also available in francophone communities, particularly Moncton and northern New Brunswick.

Nova Scotia

Key providers:

• ISANS (Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia) - primary settlement agency in Halifax ^[13]
• Halifax Refugee Clinic
• YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth

CLB levels available: CLB 1 to 8 in Halifax. Limited options outside Halifax Regional Municipality.

Prince Edward Island

Key providers:

• IRSA PEI (Immigrant and Refugee Services Association PEI) - offers CLB placement testing and language programs ^[14]
• PEI Association for Newcomers to Canada

CLB levels available: CLB 1 to 8, though class variety is limited due to small population. Higher CLB levels may have very few class sections.

Newfoundland and Labrador

Key providers:

• Association for New Canadians (ANC) - primary provider in St. John's
• NL Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism (referral role) ^[15]

CLB levels available: CLB 1 to 8 in St. John's. Very limited outside the capital.

Yukon

Key providers:

• Yukon Literacy Coalition
• Multicultural Centre of the Yukon

CLB levels available: Limited. Primarily CLB 1 to 6. Higher levels may not be available locally. Online options are essential.

Northwest Territories

Key providers:

• Yellowknife Association for Community Living
• Various community-based organizations

CLB levels available: Very limited. Basic to intermediate levels only. Online essential.

Nunavut

LINC delivery in Nunavut is extremely limited. Nunavut has a very small immigrant population, and few established LINC providers exist. Online LINC is the primary option.

What if LINC is not enough?

For higher-level learners (CLB 8+)

Learners who complete LINC at CLB 8 or need higher-level training have several alternatives:

1. Provincial ESL programs - Many provinces fund their own ESL programs through school boards that may go beyond CLB 8. In Ontario, these are open to all residents, not just PRs ^[11].
2. Enhanced Language Training (ELT) - IRCC-funded programs specifically designed for CLB 7+ learners, often focused on workplace-specific language skills
3. College and university bridging programs - Academic English programs at post-secondary institutions
4. Community-based conversation circles - Free, informal programs for practice ^[9]
5. Online resources:
   • CLB-OSA (CLB Online Self-Assessment) at clb-osa.ca ^[11]
   • CBC Learning English ^[11]
   • Mauril app by CBC/Radio-Canada ^[11]

For Canadian citizens

Canadian citizens are not eligible for LINC but can access provincial ESL programs, which are often also free ^[8][11]. Contact your local school board for adult ESL class information.

Key Takeaways

• LINC provides completely free English classes to eligible permanent residents and protected persons across Canada (except Quebec) ^[1][2]
• The program was established in 1992 and covers CLB levels 1 to 8 (some locations up to 10) ^[1][3]
• Enrollment requires a free language assessment (CLBPT) first - use the IRCC service finder to locate an assessment centre ^[8][10]
• Classes come in multiple formats: full-time, part-time, evening, weekend, and online ^[1]
• Many providers offer free childcare and transportation assistance ^[1]
• CLB 4 in speaking and listening meets the citizenship language requirement ^[1]
• Quebec runs its own francisation program instead of LINC, teaching French and open to all residents 16+ ^[6]
• There is no time limit on how long you can attend LINC ^[1]
• Higher-level learners (CLB 8+) can pursue Enhanced Language Training, provincial ESL, or college bridging programs

If you have just arrived in Canada, LINC should be one of the first settlement services you explore. It is also a good idea to apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN) and register for provincial health insurance around the same time.

FAQ

What does LINC stand for and what does it provide?

LINC stands for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada. It is a federally funded program that provides free English language classes to eligible adult newcomers to help them integrate into Canadian society ^[1][2].

Is LINC really completely free?

Yes. LINC classes are 100% free for eligible participants. There are no hidden fees for tuition, textbooks, or materials ^[1][2][10].

Who is eligible for LINC?

Permanent residents, approved permanent residence applicants, protected persons with a positive IRB decision, and temporary residents in certain programs (Atlantic Immigration Program, Rural and Northern Immigration Program) are eligible ^[8].

Can Canadian citizens take LINC classes?

No. LINC is only for permanent residents and protected persons. Canadian citizens can access provincial ESL programs, which are often also free through local school boards ^[8][11].

I'm a Canadian citizen who moved from Quebec and don't speak English well. Can I take LINC?

No. As a citizen, you are not eligible for LINC regardless of your language ability or province of origin. However, most provinces offer free ESL programs through community colleges, school boards, or settlement agencies that are open to citizens. In Ontario, for example, the Ontario Bridge Training Program and adult ESL through school boards are available. Check your local school board or community college for options.

Can I get free French classes through LINC if I move to Quebec?

No. LINC does not operate in Quebec. Quebec has its own program called francisation (administered by the MIFI - Ministere de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Integration). If you are a PR or citizen who moves to Quebec and needs French, you can access Quebec's free francisation courses, which offer a financial allowance during full-time study. Visit quebec.ca/en/education/learn-french for details. Note: Quebec's program is available to both PRs and citizens who reside in Quebec.

Can I attend LINC while working?

Yes. There is no employment restriction. LINC offers full-time, part-time, evening, and weekend schedules to accommodate working learners ^[1].

How do I find LINC classes near me?

Use the IRCC service finder at ircc.canada.ca/english/newcomers/services/index.asp to find language assessment centres and LINC providers in your area ^[8].

What is the CLB test and do I need it?

The Canadian Language Benchmarks Placement Test (CLBPT) is a free assessment that measures your English skills in Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing. You must complete it before registering for LINC to determine your appropriate class level ^[1][10].

What CLB level do I need for Canadian citizenship?

You need CLB 4 or higher in speaking and listening to meet the citizenship language requirement. A LINC completion certificate at CLB 4+ can serve as proof ^[1].

Is there a time limit on LINC?

No. You can continue attending LINC classes as long as you remain eligible and continue to progress through CLB levels. Some learners attend for months, others for years ^[1].

Does LINC offer free childcare?

Many LINC providers offer free childminding services (called "LINC Care for Newcomer Children") while parents attend classes. Availability varies by location - ask when you register ^[1].

Can I take LINC online?

Yes. Online LINC is available through live video classes, blended learning, self-paced modules, and the Avenue.ca platform. This is especially useful for learners in rural areas ^[9].

What about Quebec? Is LINC available there?

No. Quebec runs its own francisation program instead of LINC. It provides free French classes to all Quebec residents 16+ (broader eligibility than LINC) ^[6].

My spouse is a permanent resident but I am on a work permit. Can I attend LINC?

It depends on your specific immigration status and program. Some work permit holders in specific programs (Atlantic Immigration Program, Rural and Northern Immigration Program) may be eligible. Check with IRCC or your local assessment centre ^[8].

What happens after I finish LINC at CLB 8?

You can pursue Enhanced Language Training (ELT) programs (IRCC-funded, for CLB 7+), provincial ESL programs through school boards, college or university bridging programs, or community conversation circles ^[9][11].

Are there LINC classes for people who cannot read or write?

Yes. Some providers offer literacy LINC classes for learners who need to develop basic reading and writing skills alongside English language learning ^[1].