Highland councillors will this week consider plans to offer homes to dozens of refugees fleeing from Syria.
The authority has said it is in a position to take in “at least” 25 to 30 families through the UK resettlement programme.
At a full council meeting later this week, members will be updated on the progress of preparing for the arrival of refugees, although it is expected that the first families will not arrive until early in the new year.
A working group has been set up involving officers from the council, NHS Highland, police, the Department of Work and Pensions and the voluntary sector to prepare for the newcomers.
One solution being mooted as a way of housing refugees is to target private landlords who may have long-term properties available.
Another is to train volunteers who would be able to help support families by translating and teaching English.
It is understood that refugees who will move into council houses are most likely to be placed in Caithness, which does not have the same pressures on housing as other parts of the north.
Highland Council leader councillor, Margaret Davidson, said: “We are continuing to work with our key partners to ensure that we are in the best position possible to ensure a smooth transition for refugee families when they arrive.
“We are unlikely to receive the first refugees until early in the new year and they will certainly need support in adjusting to a new life, a new culture and our Highland winter.”
Mrs Davidson said she had been heartened by “the genuine goodwill” of people in the north.
“Many people here are very worried about the terrible situation in and around Syria and are naturally anxious to do what they can. It is a complex and difficult issue,” she said.