Many destinations have programs in place that help expats adapt to a new life and better integrate into society. However, some countries go the extra mile to make newcomers feel especially welcome. Here are a few destination options if you are looking for that extra warm welcome.
Welcoming Week in Canada
Canada has a special event dedicated to welcoming newcomers. This year, Welcoming Week was held from September 8 to 17. During the event, Canadians are encouraged to meet up with newly arrived expats as part of organized events and provide them with assistance in adjusting to a new way of life.
The event is held under the aegis of the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and is meant to foster a stronger sense of belonging among new expats in their new community.
As of 2022, there are over 8 million immigrants residing in Canada – which makes up almost one-fourth of the country's total population.
Settlement Services Program in Australia
The Settlement Services Program aims to make newcomers feel at home in Australia and is meant for both voluntary immigrants and refugees. There are several ways in which the program can be helpful to expats. First, you can get connected to community services that can further assist you with your needs in a new place. Second, you receive assistance and guidance on how to use your skills and strengths to get work in Australia. Finally, the program provides new arrivals with general yet vital information on local life and culture and helps people connect and avoid feeling alienated in their new environment.
Welcome Centers in Germany
Welcome Centers started operating in Germany back in 2015. Their role is to help those interested in coming to the country make their plans come true – plus assist them with the basics once they arrive. Welcome Centres can help you with visas and permits, organizing your life in the country, learning German, purchasing insurance, and more.
Some Welcome Centres work with specific target groups, such as students or internship seekers, while others may also provide information to local companies interested in recruiting employees from abroad. If you are looking to set up a company in Germany as an expat, you can also contact one of the Welcome Centres for informational assistance.
Welcome Centers can be found in many cities and towns across Germany.
Swedish for Immigrants Program (SFI) in Sweden
When you move to a new country, a language barrier will probably be one of the biggest stumbling blocks on your way to professional and social success. If you've just relocated to Sweden, you can help yourself out with the Swedish for Immigrants Program.
The initiative is designed to help adults who have recently arrived in the country to gain essential Swedish language skills. The courses offered via the SFI program are absolutely free, and you will only need to be registered with the local municipality and have a personal ID. Your starting level of Swedish will be assessed once you apply for the program.
Newcomers Network in New Zealand
The New Zealand Newcomers Network is a nationwide initiative that is both a web platform and a set of support services offered via 37 regional Newcomers Networks across the country. The Newcomers Network helps new arrivals in a number of ways, from organizing social activities and events (both online and offline) to practical guidance on finding housing and employment in the new country.
The New Zealand Newcomers Network has been around for over a decade and has all the infrastructure in the palace to help new arrivals in different parts of the country.
Welcoming America in the USA
Welcoming America is a national non-profit organization in the United States offering a number of initiatives for newcomers. Similarly to Canada, Welcoming America hosts a Welcoming Week for new arrivals, during which people get to connect, learn how to access language courses and other resources, exchange experiences, network, and more.
In addition to Welcoming Week, the organization provides other forms of assistance, from inclusion programs to competitive opportunities across the country.
Introduction Program for Newcomers in Norway
The Introduction Program for Newcomers takes a more hands-on, practical approach to helping new expats thrive in the country. The program is based on a structured curriculum, which includes language courses, social studies as well as specific work-related training. The main goal of this initiative is to give newly arrived expats the essential skills and knowledge that can help them adapt professionally and financially to Norwegian society.
While this particular program comes with a strong focus on developing practical skills, there are also opportunities to learn about Norwegian culture, network with other expats and the local community, and more.
To sum up
Packing up your life and moving to a new country is no easy feat. Whether your move is sponsored by an employer, enforced by circumstance, or driven by adventure or a search for opportunity, you may need help. Help may come in different forms – and even if you don't need practical assistance, having a community and a support system can make all the difference in your experience. Before you land in your new home, take some time to look up welcome programs and initiatives like the ones we've mentioned in this article. Even if you don't need their assistance right away, having a contact like this handy can provide an extra level of comfort in a new environment.
