Important Changes to CVIMS Services – April 2025

Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society (CVIMS) remains committed to welcoming and supporting newcomers in the Regional District of Nanaimo as they settle, learn English, and find employment in our region. However, starting April 1, 2025, there will be several important changes to our services and regions we serve, including updates to our LINC English classes.

We appreciate your patience during this transition. If you have any questions about our services or program locations, please contact us at info@cvims.org, and we will do our best to respond as quickly as possible.

Summary of Changes:

  • Changes to English Language Classes (LINC):
    • The LINC English program will only offer CLB Literacy to Level 4 classes.
    • There will be no classes for Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Level 5 and above.
    • CLB 3 and 4 classes will be online only, with limited space available.
    • More details to follow.
  •  End of IRCC-funded settlement and language support for CUAET (Ukrainian) visa holders
  • Conclusion of the Home Instructions for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) program
  • New location for provincially funded services for Work Permit holders, International Students, CUAET visa holders, Refugee Claimants, and Asylum Seekers:
  • Launch of a new Entrepreneurship Program
  • Expanded online settlement and language services for IRCC-funded clients in:
    • Port Alberni (settlement & language)
    • Duncan (language only)

Changes for CUAET Visa Holders

As of April 1, 2025, individuals with a Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) visa and their dependents will no longer be eligible for IRCC-funded language and settlement services.

Since the launch of the CUAET program in 2022, CVIMS has proudly supported over 420 Ukrainian newcomers in their journey to settle, learn English, and secure employment.

CUAET visa holders may still be eligible for provincially funded programs, such as the BC Newcomer Support Program (NSP).

For more information, please contact info@cvims.org.