Who we are

The Canadian Orientation Abroad (COA) programme is a global refugee orientation initiative funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and implemented worldwide by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Since 1998, IOM has been providing information and orientation sessions to refugees aged 13 and above before their departure to Canada. 

• Delivered in 60+ locations worldwide
• Facilitated by experienced trainers
• Offered in local languages or with interpretation
• Target group: Refugees approved for resettlement to Canada
• Eligibility:
  • Ages 13+
  • All refugee categories
  • No skills or language requirements

IOM Global

With 174 member states, a further 8 states holding observer status and offices in over 100 countries, IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It does so by providing services and advice to governments and migrants.

IOM works to help ensure the orderly and humane management of migration to promote international cooperation on migration issues, to assist in the search for practical solutions to migration problems and to provide humanitarian assistance to migrants in need, including refugees and internally displaced people. Learn more.

The IOM Constitution recognizes the link between migration and economic, social and cultural development, as well as to the right of freedom of movement.