Northern Quebec: Explore this unforgettable natural paradise
Northern Quebec: A hidden natural paradise
Thinking about moving to Quebec but not sure which region to settle in?
Let’s continue our tour of Quebec’s 17 administrative regions. If you’re looking to connect with nature and discover Indigenous culture, Nord-du-Québec (or Northern Quebec) is the perfect destination for you!
Key facts
Geographic location
As its name suggests, Nord-du-Québec is the northernmost region of the province. It is located north of Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, and Mauricie. The territory spans 839,000 km², making it the largest region in Quebec. It covers more than 50% of the province’s total area.
In 2021, Nord-du-Québec had a total population of 46,673, making it both the largest and the least populated region in Quebec. However, population growth is expected in the coming years.
The territory is mainly divided into two municipalities: Baie-James and Nunavik. The main town is Chibougamau. The region’s population is primarily Indigenous, including the Inuit (in Nunavik), the Jamésiens, and the Cree (in Baie-James). As a result, you’ll hear several languages spoken, such as Inuktitut, the language of the Inuit.
Activities and leisure
Activities in the Nord-du-Québec region are strongly centered around nature.
Once you’re there, you’ll have the chance to explore many parks and nature reserves. These include the Ashuapmushuan Wildlife Reserve, Robert-A.-Boyd Park, and the village of Kangiqsualujjuaq.
You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy typical winter activities such as snowmobiling (known locally as Skidoo), hiking, and snowshoeing. Events are also organized in the region, such as the Taïga Challenge dogsled race, which takes place in the town of Fermont.
For those interested in industry, the Grande-1 Generating Station (water treatment) and the Robert-Bourassa hydroelectric development operated by Hydro-Québec are open to visitors. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about these processes!
Economy
In this region, the primary sector is the main economic driver. It is the Quebec region most focused on the exploitation of natural resources. Notable examples include water treatment at the Grande-1 Generating Station and hydroelectric power at the Robert-Bourassa development.
The manufacturing sector is also doing well in the Nord-du-Québec region, recording a total of 459 million dollars in sales in 2017.
In 2020, Investissement Quebec and the Ministry of Economy and Innovation came together to help revitalize the region’s economy. The goal was to offer enhanced support and a more comprehensive range of services for entrepreneurs.
Job sectors that are hiring
In 2020, the job sectors that were hiring in Nord-du-Québec were:
- Household services : 30,7 %
- Public services : 27,6 %
- Core services : 14,2 %
- Manufacturing : 11,8 %
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Francophone education
Moving with your family?
The region has a school service center located in James Bay. It includes 8 preschool and elementary schools, as well as 5 secondary schools.
As for Nunavik, there are 14 elementary schools and 14 secondary schools.
Étudiant ? L’Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT) dispose d’un campus dans la ville de Chibougamau, qui propose des cours de 1er cycle en présentiel et en distanciel. L’Université Teluq propose des cours exclusivement en distanciel, pouvant être suivis depuis la région.
For older individuals, the region is home to 3 General Adult Education Centers (CFGA), as well as 3 Vocational Training Centers (CFPBJ)
Immigration
In this region, there are more interregional migration movements than migration flows from foreign countries.
A very small proportion of people from abroad settle in Northern Quebec. Among them are immigrants from France, the United States, Haiti, the United Kingdom, and China.
Which immigration program should you choose?
If you plan to settle in this region, your immigration program will depend on your profile, age, education, and work experience. There are several options.
If you wish to settle permanently, the most popular options for prospective French-speaking immigrants remain the Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP) and the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ). Aimed at obtaining permanent resident status, these programs offer immigration pathways for Francophones who want to establish themselves in Quebec.
If you’re instead looking to embark on a temporary adventure, a work permit or a study permit (depending on your project) might be worth considering.
There are many options! For more information, feel free to contact our professionals.
Interesting fact
Nunavik, located in the northern part of the region, is almost the size of France on its own, but has nearly 5,000 times fewer inhabitants!
This article was last updated on March 31, 2022.