Overview
Not sure where to start?
Take Settle Smart to get personalized guidance for Nova Scotia.
Immigration Pathways
Nova Scotia’s primary immigration pathway targeting skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs. Successful nominees receive a provincial nomination to apply for Canadian permanent residence.
A federal program helping Nova Scotia employers hire international talent. Provides a pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers and graduates with a job offer in Atlantic Canada.
Jobs & Employment
Entry-Level Jobs
Jobs for beginners and those starting their career
Visa Sponsorship
Jobs with employer sponsorship support
LMIA Approved
Labour Market Impact Assessment approved positions
Newcomer Jobs
Opportunities specifically for newcomers to Canada
Student Jobs
Part-time and full-time positions for students
Cost of Living
Housing in Nova Scotia is moderately affordable. Rents and home prices in Halifax have risen but remain lower than larger Canadian cities.
Electricity and heating costs in Nova Scotia are relatively high (due to reliance on coal and imported power). Many households budget carefully for winter heating.
Transportation costs are moderate. A monthly public transit pass in Halifax is about $82, and gasoline prices are around the national average.
Grocery prices in Nova Scotia are moderate but slightly higher than central Canada due to import costs. A single person might spend around $350/month on food.
Leisure activities are reasonably priced. For example, dining out is affordable: a mid-range dinner for two in Halifax costs about $90, and movie tickets are ~$13 each.
Education
Nova Scotia offers excellent educational opportunities with research-focused universities and technical colleges. International students are welcome and can transition to permanent residency through graduate immigration programs.
Dalhousie University
Dalhousie is Atlantic Canada’s leading research university, known for medicine, engineering and ocean sciences. (~4,500 international students)
Nova Scotia Community College
NSCC is a public college with 14 campuses offering practical programs in trades, technology, and applied arts. Supports international students with career-focused education. (~500 international students)
Healthcare
Nova Scotia has a comprehensive public healthcare system and excellent private healthcare options. Healthcare professionals are in high demand, making it an attractive destination for medical workers and their families.
Healthcare System
Nova Scotia provides public healthcare through MSI (Medical Services Insurance), which covers medically necessary hospital and physician services. Like other provinces, basic healthcare is free at point of use. However, there are doctor and nurse shortages, especially in rural areas, leading to longer wait times for some services.
Community & Culture
Nova Scotia is known for its welcoming communities and vibrant cultural scene. Multi-cultural neighborhoods, festivals, and community organizations make it easy for newcomers to feel at home and build meaningful connections.
Community Spirit
Nova Scotia is known for its friendly, close-knit communities. Neighbours often know each other, and newcomers report feeling welcomed. The province’s strong sense of community is evident in local events and volunteerism.
Outdoor Lifestyle
Nova Scotians enjoy an outdoor coastal lifestyle. With beaches, hiking trails, and the Atlantic Ocean, activities like kayaking, surfing, and seaside hiking are popular. The slower pace of life by the sea is a big draw.
Cultural Scene
Nova Scotia has a rich cultural scene influenced by Acadian, Mi’kmaq, African Nova Scotian, and Scottish heritage. The province hosts lively music (e.g. Celtic music in pubs), arts festivals, and events like the Halifax International Busker Festival.
Economy
Nova Scotia's economy is diverse and resilient, spanning energy, technology, healthcare, agriculture, and skilled trades. Strong economic growth and business-friendly policies create abundant opportunities for entrepreneurs and workers.
Median Household Income
Median after-tax household income in Nova Scotia (approximate). This reflects modest earnings in a service-oriented economy.
Employment Rate
"Employment rate" – percentage of working-age population employed. Nova Scotia’s rate is slightly lower than the national average due to an older demographic and outmigration of youth.
Climate & Weather
Nova Scotia experiences distinct seasons with cold winters and warm summers. The lower humidity levels and clear skies are features many newcomers appreciate. Outdoor recreation is popular year-round.
Summer
Nova Scotia summers are warm and pleasant. Typical summer highs range 20–25°C near the coast (warmer inland). Humidity is moderate, and coastal breezes keep temperatures comfortable. Precipitation is spread throughout summer with occasional rain showers. Residents enjoy outdoor activities like beach days, sailing, and festivals during the comfortable summer months.
Winter
Winters in Nova Scotia are relatively mild by Canadian standards but can be stormy. Coastal areas hover around -5 to 0°C, while inland can drop below -10°C. Snowfall is common (especially in Cape Breton) but also mixed with rain/freezing rain in some coastal storms. Residents often enjoy skating, hockey, and skiing (e.g. at Ski Martock) when snow conditions allow.