Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre

A home for newcomers, built by newcomers.

We are a community-based organization that supports immigrants and refugees across Greater Victoria and Vancouver Island, with partnerships throughout British Columbia.

1989

Serving Greater Victoria since

3,000+

Individuals served each year

500+

Children, youth, women & seniors in Community Resilience programs

250+

Volunteers giving their time every year

Programs & Services

Comprehensive support for
every stage of the journey

From the first week in Canada to citizenship and beyond, our programs are free, confidential and delivered with cultural sensitivity.

Provincially funded

BC Newcomer Services Program

Integrated, client-centred services for more than 2,500 newcomers each year — settlement support, English language training, employment readiness and community programs for youth, families and seniors. Designed for newcomers who are not eligible for federally funded settlement services.

Funded by IRCC

Newcomer Wraparound Support Program

For newcomers facing overwhelming or complex barriers to settlement. Together we create a personalized wraparound plan built on your strengths, wishes and dreams — with a focus on empowerment.

English Language (ESL)

English classes, conversation groups and Canadian Language Benchmarks assessments to build confidence in daily life and work.

Employment Readiness

Résumés, job search strategies, interview practice and an understanding of the Canadian workplace.

CELPIP Test Centre

An official CELPIP test location since 2014 — take the English test for permanent residence and citizenship in a familiar, welcoming place.

Enable for Children & Youth

Homework Club, art therapy, music workshops and Youth Night support the academic, social and emotional needs of newcomer children and youth.

BC Civic Connect

A free program for youth ages 15–30 who want to learn, lead and take civic action in communities across B.C. — built by youth, for youth.

Newcomer Women’s Project

Trauma-informed case management, counselling, referrals and wellness workshops for immigrant and refugee women aged 18+.

Digital Literacy for BIPOC Seniors

Older adults build digital skills, access online health and government services, and stay connected to community.

Leading Change for Resilient Communities

A Province of B.C.–funded pilot bringing anti-racism education to rural communities and workplaces across the province.

Volunteer Program

More than 250 volunteers each year support tutoring, language practice and community outreach.

Not sure which program is right for you? Our team will help you find the right fit.

Everyone is welcome. Everyone belongs at VIRCS.

VIRCS proudly welcomes and serves people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, and sex characteristics. We affirm and respect our 2SLGBTQIA+ clients, staff, volunteers, and community members.​

We are committed to creating safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive spaces where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Were you a victim or witness of a racist incident? Get help here.

With respect

Territorial
Acknowledgement

We acknowledge with gratitude that our work takes place on the unceded traditional territories of the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Lekwungen) Peoples, known today as the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, and of the W̱SÁNEĆ, T’Sou-ke and Sc’ianew Nations across the Greater Victoria region.

As an organization that welcomes immigrants and refugees, we recognize that we do this work as guests on these lands. We are committed to respect, ongoing learning, and practices that honour Indigenous presence, knowledge and resilience.

You don’t have to navigate your new beginning alone.

We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Gratefully supported by our funders and partners