591 Comparative settlement outcomes among refugee categories in Ontario: a showcase by polycultural immigrant and community services

Abstract EP1.4, e-Poster Terminal 1, September 4, 2025, 11:35 - 13:00 Polycultural Immigrant and Community Services, a trusted organization with over 50 years of experience supporting newcomers in Ontario, has identified notable differences in settlement outcomes among refugee groups. This case study explores the integration trajectories of Privately Sponsored Refugees (PSRs), Government-Assisted Refugees (GARs), and asylum seekers, emphasizing how sponsorship models and access to services shape their experiences. Refugee Pathways and Support Structures Canada offers multiple entry pathways for refugees: These pathways result in varying levels of assistance, which significantly influence each group’s settlement journey. Integration Outcomes and Service Gaps Empirical data suggests that PSRs tend to integrate economically more quickly than GARs, largely due to the personalized and consistent support provided by their sponsors. In contrast, asylum seekers often endure prolonged uncertainty during the claims process, which delays access to essential settlement services. This gap in support is associated with increased mental health challenges, including elevated rates of depression and anxiety. Role and Emerging Needs During 2022–2023, more than 341,000 individuals accessed settlement services in Ontario, highlighting the province’s central role in refugee integration. Despite this robust service infrastructure, disparities in access persist across refugee categories. These inequities point to the urgent need for policy reforms that ensure fair and comprehensive support for all refugee groups. Conclusion and Recommendations This showcase calls for a more nuanced and responsive approach to refugee settlement. Tailoring services to meet the distinct needs of each refugee category—especially asylum seekers—could significantly improve mental health outcomes and foster more equitable integration across the board.