Overview
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Immigration Pathways
Quebec’s main skilled worker program for foreign workers who meet Quebec’s selection criteria (Arrima system). Applicants are selected by Quebec and can apply for permanent residence after receiving a Quebec Selection Certificate.
An accelerated immigration pathway for candidates with Quebec experience, such as international students who graduated in Quebec or skilled temporary workers in Quebec. Provides a fast-track to a Quebec Selection Certificate for permanent residence.
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
Quebec offers relatively affordable housing (especially outside Montreal). Montreal’s rents are significantly cheaper than Toronto/Vancouver – a 2-bedroom averages ~$1,930. Smaller cities (Quebec City, Sherbrooke) have even lower housing costs.
Utilities in Quebec are very affordable (high affordability). Hydro-Québec’s low electricity rates keep bills around $100–$120/month for many apartments, among the lowest power costs in Canada.
Transportation is affordable in Quebec. Montreal’s STM monthly pass is about $94 (with discounts for students). Gasoline and car insurance costs are among the lowest in Canada, making overall transport relatively inexpensive.
Groceries in Quebec are moderately priced. Supply management keeps items like dairy cheaper. A single person might spend ~$300/month on groceries. Overall food costs are close to the national average.
Entertainment and dining in Quebec are moderately affordable. A dinner for two in Montreal might cost $80–$100. Festivals (e.g. Jazz Fest) often have free shows, and cultural activities are reasonably priced, adding value for residents.
Education
Quebec 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.
McGill University
One of Canada’s top universities (globally recognized), known for medicine, science, law and MBA programs; attracts students worldwide. (~12,000 international students)
Université de Montréal
Major francophone university with comprehensive programs (engineering, arts, life sciences), renowned for research and a large international francophone student body. (~10,000 international students)
Concordia University
English-language university known for engineering, computer science, and fine arts; popular with international students and strong co-op options. (~9,500 international students)
Healthcare
Quebec 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
Quebec runs a public healthcare system through RAMQ. The province offers universal coverage for hospital and physician care. A unique aspect is its extensive network of CLSC community clinics. Quebec faces a shortfall of family doctors and has implemented reforms (like clinic-based practice) to improve access. French is the primary language in healthcare settings (with English available in some institutions).
Community & Culture
Quebec 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.
Francophone Culture
Quebec’s identity is defined by the French language and culture. Living in Quebec means immersion in a francophone society – from day-to-day language to music, cinema, and literature. Festivals like Montreal’s Jazz Festival and Quebec Winter Carnival reflect a unique cultural flair, and most public services operate in French (with English secondary).
Arts & Festivals
Quebec has a vibrant arts scene renowned for its festivals and creativity. Montreal is known for world-class events (Just for Laughs comedy, International Jazz Festival) and a thriving circus arts scene (Cirque du Soleil’s birthplace). Quebecers highly value their cultural industries and heritage, contributing to a rich cultural life.
Cuisine & Lifestyle
Quebec offers a distinct lifestyle with European influence – from café culture to cuisine. Locals enjoy specialties like poutine and maple syrup treats, and cities have a lively café/bistro scene. Work-life balance tends to be valued; Sundays might be spent with family over long meals. This unique blend of North American and European lifestyle is a hallmark of Quebec.
Economy
Quebec'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 Quebec. This is slightly below the Canadian median, reflecting Quebec’s lower cost of living and different wage structure. Generous social benefits (like subsidized daycare) also support quality of life.
Employment Rate
Quebec’s employment rate is about 60%. In recent years it hit record highs (before a slight dip). The province has increased labour participation, including more older workers and immigrants in the workforce, to address labour shortages in many sectors.
Climate & Weather
Quebec 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
Quebec summers are warm and humid. Montreal and Quebec City see July highs ~26–28°C, with humidity making it feel hotter at times. Thunderstorms are common in late afternoons. Eastern Quebec (Gaspé) stays a bit cooler. Summer is festival time (Jazz Fest, etc.), and residents enjoy patios (“terrasses”), lakeside cottages, and outdoor events during the hot, often sunny summer days.
Winter
Quebec winters are cold, snowy, and long. In Montreal, January averages around -10°C (with colder spells to -20°C). Quebec City and northern regions are even colder. Snow is abundant – Montreal gets ~2m of snow annually. Winter Carnival and outdoor activities (skiing, ice fishing) are popular as Quebecers embrace winter. Warm clothing is a must, but a vibrant winter culture (hockey, festivals) helps residents enjoy the season.