For new immigrants and refugees who have just arrived in Edmonton, access to public transportation is one of the most important factors for successful integration into a new society. Without reliable and affordable transportation, it is impossible to find a job, attend English language courses, receive medical care, drive children to school, or simply navigate a new city. Recognizing this critical need, the City of Edmonton, in partnership with the Government of Alberta, has developed a suite of fare subsidy programs that significantly reduce the financial burden for those just starting their lives in Canada.
This article takes a detailed look at all the fare discount options available to new immigrants in Edmonton, from the Ride Transit program, which offers monthly passes for $36 instead of the standard $102, to special support programs through settlement agencies such as Catholic Social Services, Edmonton Immigrant Services Association (EISA), and Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers (EMCN). Whether you are a permanent resident, a refugee claimant, or have arrived through the Ukrainian Refugee Program, there are options that can help you save significantly on transportation costs.
1. Ride Transit Program: The primary support mechanism
The most important and comprehensive transit subsidy program for new immigrants in Edmonton is the Ride Transit Program. This program was launched in September 2017 as part of a partnership between the City of Edmonton and the Government of Alberta to reduce financial barriers for low-income and vulnerable populations.
The Ride Transit program operates on a subsidized fare cap on the Arc card system. Instead of paying the standard monthly fare cap of $102 for adults, Ride Transit participants pay significantly less — between $36 and $51 per month, depending on their income level and status.
Who among newcomers can apply
The Ride Transit program specifically recognizes the category of newcomers to Canada as one of the qualifying groups. According to the official program requirements, the following categories of immigrants are eligible to participate:
New Permanent Residents — Individuals who have just obtained permanent resident status in Canada and have not yet had the opportunity to file a tax return may be eligible for the program. This is particularly important because many other programs require a Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency, which newcomers do not yet have.
Refugee Claimants — individuals who have applied for refugee status and are awaiting a decision are also eligible for the program. To confirm their status, they must provide a Refugee Protection Claimant document.
Refugees receiving assistance under the RAP — Refugees who receive funding through the Refugee Assistance Program (RAP) from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) can submit a letter of confirmation of income from IRCC along with their refugee protection document.
Privately sponsored refugees — individuals who arrived in Canada as privately sponsored refugees can submit a letter of income confirmation from their Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH).
Two levels of subsidies
The Ride Transit program offers two levels of discounts, which depend on the ratio of household income to the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) set by the federal government:
Tier 1 (Base) — monthly fare limit of $36. This tier is available to those whose income does not exceed LICO plus 10%, as well as to all new permanent residents and refugees regardless of income.
Tier 2 — monthly fare limit of $51. This tier is for those whose income is between LICO+10% and LICO+25%.
For comparison, the standard monthly fare limit for adults in Edmonton is $102 (as of February 2025), so the savings for Ride Transit participants range from $51 to $66 per month, or $612 to $792 per year.
2. Income thresholds for the Ride Transit program
For new immigrants who have already filed a tax return in Canada or have income documentation, the Ride Transit program uses thresholds based on the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO). The City of Edmonton has expanded the standard federal LICO limits to 125% of gross family income to cover more people who need support.
As of 2025, the income thresholds for the Leisure Access and Ride Transit programs are as follows:
| Household size | Income for LAP and Ride Transit (lower) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $39,080 |
| 2 people | $48,653 |
| 3 people | $59,814 |
| 4 people | $72,620 |
| 5 people | $82,365 |
| 6 people | $92,894 |
| 7+ people | $103,424 |
It is important to note that for new immigrants who have not yet filed a tax return in Canada, these thresholds do not apply directly. Instead, newcomers may qualify based on their immigration status (permanent resident or refugee) regardless of income level.
3. Application process for new immigrants
The application process for the Ride Transit program for new immigrants is slightly different from the procedure for other categories of applicants, as it takes into account the specific documents that new immigrants have.
Required documents for permanent residents
Newly arrived permanent residents who have not yet had the opportunity to file a tax return in Canada can apply by providing the following documents:
Confirmation of Permanent Residence (IMM 5292 or IMM 5688) — This is an official document that confirms your status as a permanent resident of Canada. The document must be issued in your name and contain your date of birth.
In addition, if you are applying with a spouse who already has a Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency, your permanent resident status will be considered as zero income ($0.00), which is added to your spouse's income to determine your total family income.
Required documents for refugees
For refugees and refugee claimants, the document submission process is as follows:
For refugees receiving RAP (Refugee Assistance Program):
You must submit a letter confirming your income from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This letter must include your full name, file number, monthly assistance amount, and number of family members. Along with the letter, you must submit a Refugee Protection Claimant Document.
For privately sponsored refugees:
You must submit a letter confirming your income from your Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH), such as the Mennonite Central Committee, the Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton, or another sponsoring organization.
For refugee status applicants:
You must submit the Refugee Protection Claimant Document, which confirms your application for refugee status.
Where to apply
Applications for the Ride Transit program can be submitted in several ways:
In person at the Edmonton Service Centre — this is the fastest way to get conditional approval (conditional approval) on the same day. Address: Edmonton Tower, 2nd Floor, 10111 104 Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB. Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM. Photo identification is required for in-person visits.
At Edmonton recreation centers — completed applications with all required documents can be submitted at any of the city's recreation centers.
By mail — applications can be sent to: Leisure Access & Ride Transit Program, PO Box 2359, Edmonton, AB T5J 2R7.
Through the mailbox at the Edmonton Service Centre — applications can be left in a sealed envelope in the Edmonton Service Centre mailbox with a letter indicating the purpose of the application.
The processing time for applications is usually 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the time of year and the number of applications received.
4. Program for Ukrainian refugees (CUAET)
Special attention should be paid to the Ukrainian refugee support program, which was particularly relevant for those who arrived in Canada under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program after February 24, 2022.
Ukrainian refugees who arrived under the CUAET program were eligible for a subsidized Ride Transit pass at a cost of $35/month (now $36/month), which is the lowest fare level typically offered to refugees.
Current status of the CUAET program
It is important to note that the CUAET program has officially ended, and Ukrainian refugees must now apply for the Leisure Access and Ride Transit programs using standard qualifying documents. This means that Ukrainian refugees can now apply using:
- Income Support with core housing
- Confirmation of Permanent Residence (PR)
- Refugee Protection Claimant documents
Participants who were approved during the CUAET program will remain in the program until the end of their one-year term. After the first year, they must reapply using standard eligibility documentation.
Documents accepted under the CUAET program
For those who applied during the CUAET program, the following documents were accepted:
- Visitor Record or Work Permit
- Foiless Visa
- Ukrainian passport (page with photo and date of birth) along with Counterfoil Visa
- Ukrainian passport along with Canadian entry stamp
5. How the Arc card system works for Ride Transit participants
Unlike the old system, where you had to purchase a monthly pass in advance, the Ride Transit program now works through the Arc card system with a fare cap.
This means that Ride Transit participants do not pay a fixed monthly amount in advance. Instead, they load their Arc card with any amount (minimum $4) and pay for each trip at a reduced rate. When the total amount of payments for the month reaches the fare cap ($36 or $51, depending on the level), the rest of the month can be traveled for free.
This system has several advantages for new immigrants:
Payment flexibility — no need to spend a large amount at the beginning of the month. You can add small amounts to your card as needed.
Savings for infrequent riders — if you don't use transportation often enough during the month to reach the fare cap, you only pay for the trips you actually take.
Daily limit — in addition to the monthly limit, there is also a daily limit of $10.50. This means that you will not pay more than this amount in a single day, regardless of the number of trips.
6. Leisure Access Program: additional benefits for newcomers
When you apply for the Ride Transit program, you are automatically considered for the Leisure Access Program (LAP). This program provides additional benefits that can be very useful for new immigrants.
The Leisure Access Program allows participants to visit Edmonton's recreational facilities for free or at a reduced price, including:
- Swimming pools and aquatic centers
- Gyms and fitness centers
- Sports fields
- Skating rinks and other seasonal facilities
- Health and wellness programs
For new immigrants, access to recreational facilities is not only an opportunity to participate in sports, but also a way to integrate into the community, get to know their neighbors, and improve their mental health as they adjust to their new life.
7. Other categories of subsidized fares
In addition to the Ride Transit program for low-income individuals and new immigrants, Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) offers a number of other subsidized fares that may be relevant to members of immigrant families.
Youth Fare
Children and teens aged 6 to 18 (inclusive) are eligible for a reduced youth fare. As of February 2025, the monthly fare limit for youth is $66, which is significantly less than the adult fare of $102.
This is especially important for immigrant families with school-aged children, as children can use transportation at a reduced price for trips to school and extracurricular activities.
Student fare (U-Pass)
For students enrolled at the University of Alberta, MacEwan University, NAIT, or NorQuest College, the U-Pass program is available—a semester pass at a fixed price of $149.76 per semester. This is approximately $50 per month, which is significantly less than the standard fare.
However, it is important to note that students who are already participating in the U-Pass program cannot simultaneously participate in the Ride Transit program. But if a student does not have access to U-Pass (for example, during the summer months), they can apply for Ride Transit.
Senior Fare
For individuals aged 65 and older, a reduced fare is available with a monthly limit of $36 and an annual limit of $396. In addition, low-income seniors can receive a free annual pass or a pass for $140 per year, depending on their income level.
8. The role of settlement agencies in accessing transportation
An important resource for new immigrants to Edmonton is settlement agencies, which provide free adaptation and integration services. These agencies often assist newcomers with transportation issues, including obtaining subsidized passes.
Catholic Social Services — Immigration and Settlement Service
Catholic Social Services is the largest social service agency in Western Canada, with over 2,800 employees throughout northern Alberta. Their Immigration and Settlement Service provides a wide range of services for newcomers, including:
- Needs assessment and referral to appropriate resources
- Support for refugees arriving under government programs
- Orientation sessions for newcomers in various languages
- Assistance in accessing subsidized transportation programs
Catholic Social Services staff can help newcomers complete Ride Transit program applications, explain documentation requirements, and refer them to appropriate resources.
Contact information:
- Address: 8212 – 118 Avenue, Edmonton, T5B 0S3
- Phone: 780-424-3545
Edmonton Immigrant Services Association (EISA)
EISA is one of the oldest immigrant agencies in Edmonton, founded in 1976. The agency provides services to new immigrants and refugees regardless of age, gender, religion, nationality, or ethnic origin.
EISA's services include:
- Needs assessment and settlement plan development
- Information and orientation seminars on various topics, including transportation
- Referrals to EISA's accessible services and specialized services in the community
- Document translation and interpretation services
A unique feature of EISA is that the agency provides services directly in the communities where newcomers live—in schools and libraries throughout Edmonton.
Contact information:
- Phone: 780-474-8445
Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers (EMCN)
EMCN is another important agency that provides settlement, language training, employment, and health support services to newcomers.
The agency is known for its work with private refugee sponsorship in partnership with the Islamic Family and Social Services Association (IFSSA) and the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC).
Contact information:
- Telephone: 780-424-7709 (Settlement Services)
Newcomer Centre
The Newcomer Centre assists newcomers with a wide range of issues, including:
- Affordable housing and subsidized housing
- Income support and financial services
- Legal assistance and health care
- Understanding government forms and documents
- Accessible transportation and recreational services
- Connecting with community services
Newcomer Centre staff can help newcomers understand the Ride Transit application process and prepare the necessary documents.
9. PATH Program for the Most Vulnerable Groups
For new immigrants who find themselves in extremely difficult circumstances—for example, without housing or at risk of homelessness—there is the PATH (Providing Accessible Transit Here) program.
The PATH program provides free preloaded Arc cards to those who are unable to qualify for other programs. This program is available through non-profit organizations that work with homeless individuals or those at risk of homelessness.
If you are a new immigrant and find yourself in a situation without stable housing, contact one of the resettlement agencies, which can refer you to organizations participating in the PATH program.
10. Transit Access Grant Program for Agencies
Another important program is the Transit Access Grant, which provides Arc tickets to nonprofit organizations for distribution to clients in immediate financial need.
This program is designed for those who need basic transportation to access employment, educational, and social services. Many settlement agencies receive tickets through this program and can provide them to newly arrived immigrants who urgently need transportation but do not yet have their own Arc card or cannot afford the trip.
If you are a newly arrived immigrant and have an urgent need for transportation (e.g., to attend a job interview or medical appointment) but do not have the funds, contact one of the settlement agencies and ask about the availability of free tickets.
11. Cost comparison: standard fare vs. subsidized fare
To better understand the financial benefits of the Ride Transit program for new immigrants, let's look at a comparison table of current ETS fares as of February 2025:
| Fare type | Monthly limit | Annual savings compared to adult fare |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Standard | $102 | — |
| Ride Transit Tier 1 (including newcomers) | $36 | $792 |
| Ride Transit Tier 2 | $51 | $612 |
| Youth (6-18 years old) | $66 | $432 |
| Student (U-Pass) | ~$50/month | $624 |
| Senior (65+) | $36 | $792 |
As we can see, for a new immigrant who qualifies for the Ride Transit Tier 1 program, the annual savings are almost $800. For a family of two adults, this means savings of about $1,600 per year — a significant amount for those just starting their lives in a new country.
12. Regional transportation and the Arc card
An important advantage of the Arc card system is that it works not only in Edmonton, but also in neighboring municipalities in the region:
- St. Albert
- Strathcona County
- Beaumont
- Fort Saskatchewan
- Spruce Grove
For new immigrants who may live in the suburbs of Edmonton but work or study in the city itself, this means they can use one card for all their trips.
However, it is worth noting that fare limits for regional travel may differ from local Edmonton limits. The Arc system automatically determines where you are traveling and applies the appropriate fare.
13. What to do if you do not qualify for Ride Transit
Not all new immigrants automatically qualify for the Ride Transit program. Specifically, individuals with work permits, study permits, or visitor visas are not eligible for the Ride Transit program, except through confirmation of low income with a Notice of Assessment.
If you are not eligible for Ride Transit, there are other options for reducing your transportation costs.
ETS @ Work
If you are employed, check to see if your employer participates in the ETS @ Work program. This program allows companies to offer their employees a discount of up to 24% on Arc adult fares.
Buying tickets in bulk
If you don't use public transportation regularly, buying individual tickets may be more economical than a monthly pass. A single ticket costs $3.75, while a single trip with an Arc card costs $3.00.
Using the daily limit
If you need to make multiple trips in one day, remember that there is a daily fare limit of $10.50. Once you reach this amount, you can ride for free for the rest of the day.
14. Transportation tips for new immigrants
Based on information about available programs and the practical experience of settlement agencies, here are some practical tips for new immigrants to Edmonton.
Apply for Ride Transit as soon as possible
Don't wait until your funds run out. The application process takes 2 to 3 weeks, so apply as soon as you arrive in Edmonton to have your subsidized pass when you need it.
Contact a settlement agency
Settlement agency staff can help you fill out the application, explain the documentation requirements, and even provide free tickets for the first few rides. This is a free service that can make the process much easier.
Keep all your immigration documents
To apply for Ride Transit, you will need copies of your immigration documents—Confirmation of Permanent Residence, Refugee Protection Claimant Document, or other relevant documents. Always keep copies of these documents in a safe place.
Register your Arc card
Once you receive your Arc card, be sure to register it on the myarc.ca website. This will protect your funds if you lose your card and allow you to easily manage your account online.
Learn about the route network
As a newcomer, take the time to learn about Edmonton's bus and LRT route network. The ETS website and mobile apps can help you plan your trips and find the best routes to places you visit often.
15. Contact Information and Resources
For the convenience of new immigrants, here is a summary table of the most important contacts and resources for subsidized transportation in Edmonton:
| Organization/Program | Phone | Website/Address |
|---|---|---|
| City of Edmonton 311 | 311 (within Edmonton) or 780-442-5311 | edmonton.ca |
| Ride Transit Program | 311 | edmonton.ca/ridetransit |
| Edmonton Service Centre | — | Edmonton Tower, 2nd Floor, 10111 104 Ave NW |
| Catholic Social Services | 780-424-3545 | 8212 – 118 Avenue, Edmonton |
| EISA | 780-474-8445 | eisa-edmonton.org |
| EMCN | 780-424-7709 | emcn.ab.ca |
| Newcomer Centre | — | newcomercentre.com |
| Arc card information | — | myarc.ca |
Conclusion: transportation accessibility as a right, not a privilege
For new immigrants and refugees in Edmonton, access to subsidized public transportation is not just a convenience, but a necessity for successful integration into Canadian society. The City of Edmonton and the Province of Alberta recognize this need and provide a range of programs that significantly reduce the financial burden of transportation costs.
The Ride Transit program is the primary support mechanism, allowing new permanent residents and refugees to purchase a monthly pass for $36 instead of the standard $102 — a savings of over $790 per year. For families with multiple adults, this savings can amount to thousands of dollars annually.
It is important to remember that the application process can take several weeks, so newcomers are advised to seek assistance as early as possible. Settlement agencies such as Catholic Social Services, EISA, and EMCN provide free assistance with completing applications and can provide temporary transportation solutions while applicants wait.
Ultimately, Edmonton's public transit system is designed to be accessible to all residents of the city, regardless of their financial situation or immigration status. If you are a new immigrant and have questions about accessing subsidized transportation, don't hesitate to contact 311 or one of the settlement agencies — assistance is available in many languages and is always free.