October 12, 2023

Immigrating to Canada: Choosing Your Province

Are you looking to settle in Canada, either temporarily or permanently, but unsure which province to choose? We can help you find the region of your dreams to establish yourself in Canada!

QUEBEC, BUT NOT ONLY…

Canada is a vast country that encompasses diverse regions to cater to all tastes and needs.

What do they have in common? Stunning landscapes and a pleasant living environment.

Many people quickly think of Quebec when they think of Canada, mainly because the Belle Province is the largest in terms of land area: the province of Quebec alone covers 20% of Canadian territory! However, Quebec is not the most favored province for foreign nationals. In 2022, Quebec welcomed 15% of temporary Canadian immigrants.

Canada has a total of 10 official regions, more commonly referred to as provinces, grouped into 3 territories. This diversity makes it easy to find the one that suits you best!

The provinces have some differences, especially in terms of culture and languages. Depending on your needs and profile, you will probably feel more comfortable in certain regions. The diversity of profiles of candidates allowed to immigrate to Canada reflects this diversity.

No matter which region you decide to settle in, you will have the opportunity to discover a multitude of surprises that Canada has to offer. This includes nearly 50 national parks and nature reserves, as well as over 2 million lakes!

10 PROVINCES, 2 LANGUAGES

Are you an English speaker or a Francophone? Canada is a great fit for you!

The country is proud to have two official languages, French and English, which reflect the cultural and geographical diversity of the territories. This diversity significantly contributes to Canada’s appeal around the world.

The Canadian provinces each have their own language preferences. Only one of them officially recognizes both languages equally: New Brunswick. In the other provinces, either French or English is recognized as the official language and is predominantly used.

Not only can you choose your province based on the language you speak, but you are also more likely to have your immigration profile approved if you speak the province’s official language. Language skills are indeed a criterion in immigration programs like the Express Entry.

In reality, almost all Canadian provinces recognize English as an official language. The only exceptions are New Brunswick, which also recognizes French, and Quebec, which officially recognizes only French.

QUEBEC, A DESTINATION FOR FRANCOPHONES

Because the official language is French. Because the majority of residents are fluent in French. Because the culture recalls the ties between France and Quebec.

Many Francophones see Quebec as a perfect blend of a culture reminiscent of the United States and European culture. Settling in Quebec means living an experience or starting fresh in another country where the quality of life is attractive, and the language is not alien.

It’s not uncommon to hear a recently arrived French speaker say, “I feel at home!” For this reason, the Belle Province includes a large number of temporary and permanent residents who are Francophones, forming a true community!

So, if you exclusively speak French, it may be more comfortable to choose to settle in the Belle Province.

INITIATIVES FOR LEARNING FRENCH

No worries, though, if you don’t speak French fluently or if you want to improve your English! It is common to hear people speak English, and many residents are quite proficient in it.

Furthermore, the government offers initiatives to promote learning French, especially within businesses. The latest initiative, the creation of the Francisation Québec portal, aims to make French language learning more accessible.

CHOOSE A PROVINCE FOR ITS DYNAMISM

For working and enjoying the economic and cultural dynamism of major cities, some provinces are particularly renowned.

It is common to prefer Quebec, but also Ontario or Alberta, three major provinces that are home to Canada’s largest cities such as Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary, and Edmonton.

These regions are ideal for enjoying the benefits of major cities without straying too far from the great outdoors. However, keep in mind that a metropolis is often synonymous with a higher cost of living, including housing, food, and activities. This dynamism comes at a certain cost that you should consider.

ONTARIO, THE MOST POPULOUS PROVINCE

Among them, Ontario is the most popular province for newcomers and the most populous in Canada. In 2021, nearly half of immigrants to Canada chose Ontario.

Toronto is particularly popular, being a major metropolis with impressive skyscrapers and extensive green spaces.

While the official language in Ontario is English, Francophones have their place as well. The province boasts the largest Francophone community in Canada after Quebec.

SETTLING IN A QUIETER PROVINCE

If you are looking to settle with your family in a province where life is quieter and more peaceful than in major metropolises, Canada offers several options.

Among them, Prince Edward Island, the smallest province in Canada, offers a pleasant living environment where nature reigns. It has many advantages for those looking for a quiet living environment or for settling with a family. Its small size makes daily commutes easy and provides a strong sense of community, with a predominantly English-speaking culture.

CHOOSING A PROVINCE BASED ON YOUR PROFESSION

Labor shortages affect all of Canada, but provinces may have different needs based on their economic and demographic structure. In Quebec, Ontario, or Manitoba, the professions in high demand may vary. Feel free to inquire about the most relevant immigration options in your profession.

Immigration programs are tailored to the needs of each province, so you may have an easier time settling in a province if you work in a highly demanded sector.

Do you have a project in Canada? Don’t hesitate to fill out our pre-evaluation form to learn more about your immigration options.

Here, we have mentioned only a few provinces among all those that make up Canada. Each province has its own distinct characteristics, so you can find the one that resonates with your heart!

 

L’utilisation du masculin vise uniquement à alléger le texte.
Le présent article contient de l’information générale en matière d’immigration, vise à en vulgariser les termes et ne constitue en aucun cas un avis juridique. Pour obtenir un avis juridique complet, contactez nos professionnels.
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