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The 4 Best Provinces In Canada For New Immigrants

The 4 Best Provinces in Canada for New Immigrants

Each of Canada’s provinces has its own unique set of benefits, and it can be tough to decide which one is the best fit for you and your family. But now the question is: Which Canadian province should you call home?

British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Saskatchewan are the easiest states to immigrate to in Canada. They have a lot of opportunities for international students and workers, along with easy health care access and affordable cost of living.

With BC’s diverse culture, Alberta’s job opportunities, Ontario’s multicultural neighbourhoods, and Saskatchewan’s rich agriculture, Canada has various settings ideal for many interested migrants.

Keep on reading to know more about what these provinces can offer for your permanent stay in Canada.

1. British Columbia

British Columbia's Homepage

First on our list is beautiful British Columbia, Canada’s westernmost province and “The Gateway to Canada.” With its mild climate and spectacular scenery, BC is widely considered to be one of the most livable places in the world.

If you’re interested in getting a head start on learning English, French, or both, BC is a great place to start, as there are loads of language schools and other educational opportunities. 

For starters, here are some of the most notable language schools in British Columbia:

  • Thompson Rivers University
  • Langara College
  • University of Victoria
  • Simon Fraser University
  • The University of British Columbia

Plus, immigration laws are among the most lenient in Canada, making it an attractive option for those looking to start a lifestyle change.

British Columbia’s Immigration Eligibility Requirements

• You must have an active and valid profile in Express Entry’s system.
• You must have a Job Seeker Code which you can get upon creating a profile in Express Entry’s system.
• You must have your job contract which shows that you accepted a full-time job.
• Your wage offer must be in line with BC’s wage rate.
• You must be able to support your family’s expenses in Canada.
• You must obtain a higher score in the language proficiency test.

PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAM
This program enables the province to select and nominate foreign workers. You can check out the BC PNP’s guides below so you will have an idea if you plan on moving to BC.

BC PNP guides 
Skills Immigration Program Guide
Skills Immigration Technical Guide
Skills Immigration Post-Nomination Guide 

On top of all that, immigration-friendly cities like Vancouver have plenty of green spaces and an abundance of recreational activities and entertainment options. 

With mountains, lakes, beaches, glaciers,and parks all within reach – not to mention some great skiing opportunities – it’s easy to see why BC is considered by many to be the gateway to Canadian immigration.

What is the cost of living in British Columbia?

The cost of living in British Columbia is one of the highest in Canada. Housing costs are especially high and it is difficult to find affordable housing. 

Cost of Living in British Columbia
CategoryOne PersonFamily of 4
Rented Apartment$1993$4688
Rent & Utilities$1238$2292
Food$533$1386
Transport$96.2$252
Monthly Salary after tax$3513$3513
Data sourced from: Living Cost

How is health care in British Columbia? 

The health care in BC is very good. The province has a low income threshold for residents to be able to access free health care. 

In addition, there are many hospitals and clinics located all over the province. The health care system is reliable and you will be able to find good doctors and specialists.

Health Care Eligibility for Immigrants in British Columbia

To be eligible for the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of British Columbia, immigrants must have stayed in BC for at least 6 months. Such immigrants are:

  • Have applied for a permanent residency.
  • Lawfully admitted to Canada for permanent residence.
  • Has a property or residential house in BC.

What are the most common jobs for immigrants in British Columbia? 

It might be helpful to know what the most common jobs for immigrants in British Columbia are before you make the big move. 

Most newcomers usually find work in the service industry, as it’s a sector that is always in need of new employees.

British Columbia’s Job Opportunities for Immigrants (Express Entry Program)
NOC 00012Senior managers  financial, communications, and other business services
NOC 20012Computer and information systems managers
NOC 10022Advertising, marketing, and public relations manager
NOC 11100Financial Auditors and Accountants
NOC 21231Software Engineers and Designers
NOC 41200University professors and lecturers
NOC 41300Social workers

2. Alberta​

Alberta​'s Homepage

Alberta is Canada’s fourth largest province and is a great choice for new immigrants. Alberta has a friendly population, a growing economy, and diverse culture, making it easier for newcomers to integrate into the local community.

The province of Alberta is also known as an economic powerhouse thanks to its booming oil and gas industry, which has created job opportunities in fields like construction, engineering, manufacturing and more. 

It has also begun investing in renewable energy sources, making it attractive to those looking to get involved in the green movement.

With two major cities, Edmonton and Calgary, offering plenty of educational opportunities and countless cultural events and activities, there’s something for everyone in this welcoming Canadian province. 

On top of that, Alberta offers one of the most generous immigration programs in the country and provides access to healthcare for all permanent residents.

Alberta’s Immigration Eligibility Requirements

  • You must have an active and valid profile in Express Entry’s system.
  • You must have a Job Seeker Code which you can get upon creating a profile in Express Entry’s system.
  • You must have working experience in your country of origin.
  • You must obtain a higher score in the language proficiency test.

Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)This program enables the province to select and nominate foreign workers. It also offers immigrants workers 3 streams to choose from. These are:

  1. Alberta Opportunity Stream
  2. Alberta Express Entry Stream
  3. Rural Renewal Stream

What is the cost of living in Alberta?

If your heart is set on Alberta, you might be wondering what the cost of living is like. Fortunately, the cost of living in Alberta is relatively low compared to the rest of Canada.

Cost of Living in Alberta
CategoryOne PersonFamily of 4
Rented Apartment$1772$4189
Rent & Utilities$956$1659
Food$544$1424
Transport$147$386
Monthly Salary after tax$3782$3782
Data sourced from: Living Cost

How is health care in Alberta?

In Alberta, the health care system is very robust, and most services are free. Aside from doctor services, you’ll also be able to get coverage for specialist visits and medical treatments.

Health Care Eligibility for Immigrants in Alberta

To be eligible for Alberta Health Care (AHCIP), immigrants must have stayed in Alberta for the first 12 months. Such immigrants are:

  • Permanent resident card.
  • Have applied for a permanent residency.
  • Physically present in Alberta for at least 183 days straight.
  • Does not receive benefits from another province or country.

What are the most common jobs for immigrants in Alberta?

In addition to being affordable, Alberta also has a thriving job market with plenty of opportunities for immigrants and non-immigrants alike. 

So if you’re looking for an affordable option with lots of potential employment opportunities, you might want to consider Alberta as your top choice!

Alberta’s Job Opportunities for Immigrants (Express Entry Program)
NOC 62200Chef
NOC 31301Registered Nurses
NOC 10022Advertising, marketing, and public relations manager
NOC 11100Financial Auditors and Accountants
NOC 13111Legal Administrative Assistants
NOC 41210College and Other Vocational Instructors
NOC 41300Social workers

3. Ontario

Ontario's Homepage

One of the best parts about this province is that it has a very diverse population – it’s home to people from all over the world! This means newcomers will be able to find their community wherever they go in Ontario, providing an incredibly welcoming atmosphere.

Furthermore, Ontario is home to two international airports — Toronto Pearson International Airport and Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport — making it easy to travel in and out of the country whenever needed. 

So if you’re considering Ontario as your new home, don’t delay in making your move!

Ontario’s Immigration Eligibility Requirements

  • You must have an active and valid profile in Express Entry’s system.
  • You must have sufficient funds.
  • You must obtain a bachelor’s degree.
  • You must have working experience in your country of origin.
  • You must obtain a higher score in the language proficiency test.

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)This program enables the province to select and nominate foreign workers. It also offers immigrants workers numerous streams to choose from. Some of these are:

  1. Foreign Worker stream
  2. International Student stream
  3. In-Demand Skills stream
  4. Masters Graduate stream
  5. PhD Graduate stream
  6. Human Capital Priorities stream

What is the cost of living in Ontario?

Ontario is one of the most expensive provinces to live in Canada. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,225.

Despite this, the minimum wage in Ontario is $11.40 per hour, which is also the highest in Canada so you can be sure to afford living in Ontario.

Cost of Living in Ontario
CategoryOne PersonFamily of 4
Rented Apartment$2014$4602
Rent & Utilities$1235$2063
Food$507$1326
Transport$153$395
Monthly Salary after tax$3484$3484
Data sourced from: Living Cost

How is health care in Ontario? 

Ontario is home to some of the best hospitals and health care facilities in the country. In fact, the province has so many high-quality medical centres that it’s often referred to as “Toronto the Good.”

Health Care Eligibility for Immigrants in Ontario

To be eligible for Ontario’s Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), immigrants must be technically present in Ontario for the first three months of their moving. Such immigrants are:

  • Permanent resident card.
  • Have applied for a permanent residency.
  • Have a valid working permit and work in Ontario for at least 6 months.

If you’re looking for out-of-the-box job opportunities, Ontario is the place for you. With a booming job market that is particularly strong in IT, financial services, and life sciences, there are plenty of opportunities for new immigrants looking for work. 

What are the most common jobs for immigrants in Ontario?

Ontario is the most popular destination for new immigrants, and with good reason. Not only is it home to Canada’s largest city, Toronto, but it also offers a wealth of job opportunities.

Ontario’s Job Opportunities for Immigrants (Express Entry Program)
NOC 0114Other Administrative Services Manager
NOC 0601Corporate Sales Managers
NOC 0124Advertising, Marketing and Public Relation Managers
NOC 1111Financial Auditors and Accountants
NOC 2173Software Engineers and Designers
NOC 2174Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers
NOC 2172Database Analysts and Data Administrators

Ontario’s Job Application Procedures

  • Candidates must create a valid profile in Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s Express Entry system in order to receive a Notification of Interest (NOI) from Ontario province.
  • Later, candidates can apply online to be nominated by the Ontario government for Permanent Residence.

4. Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan's Homepage

Saskatchewan is one of the richest provinces in Canada when it comes to agriculture. With a diverse range of crops, Saskatchewnians are well-known for producing the highest yield of wheat across the nation. 

Saskatchewan’s Immigration Eligibility Requirements

  • You must have an active and valid profile in Express Entry’s system.
  • You must have post-secondary qualification relevant to your employment.
  • You must have 1 year working experience in your country of origin.
  • You must obtain 60 points out of 110 on the SINP point assessment grid.

Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)This program enables the province to select and nominate foreign workers to the federal government for permanent residence under three main categories:

  1. International Skilled Worker
  2. Saskatchewan Experience
  3. Business Immigration

What is the cost of living in Saskatchewan?

Saskatchewan is one of the most affordable provinces to call home. While the cost of living in Saskatchewan is relatively low, it varies based on the city that you choose. 

Cost of Living in Saskatchewan
CategoryOne PersonFamily of 4
Rented Apartment$1517$3323
Rent & Utilities$854$1277
Food$474$1223
Transport$77.3$207
Monthly Salary after tax$3222$3222
Data sourced from: Living Cost

This makes Saskatchewan ideal for those who are looking to start a farming business. Apart from farming, Saskatchewan also has a booming energy industry and its natural resources are often utilised for mining and hydroelectricity production. 

How is health care in Saskatchewan?

The public health insurance system in the province covers a range of medical services, from doctor visits to hospital stays, from eye exams to physiotherapy.

Furthermore, the province still offers some coverage for specialised services not covered by the public system, such as massage therapy and chiropractic treatments.

Health Care Eligibility for Immigrants in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan enables immigrants to have access to their health care coverage within the first one to three months of arriving. Such immigrants are:

  • Obtained a permanent residency.
  • Non-citizen workers.
  • International students.
  • Spouse of a Canadian Forces member.
  • Returning Canadian citizen.

What are the most common jobs for immigrants in Saskatchewan?

According to Statistics Canada, the top industries for working immigrants are manufacturing, construction, and health care and social assistance. 

Of course, there are also jobs in other fields such as the ones listed below.

Saskatchewan’s Job Opportunities for Immigrants (Express Entry Program)
NOC 21203Land surveyors
NOC 42201Social and community service workers
NOC 32122Medical sonographers
NOC 21112Agricultural representatives, consultants, and specialists
NOC 63201Meat cutters
NOC 72106Welders
NOC 80020Managers in agriculture

For those with expertise in energy and engineering, Saskatchewan could be an ideal place for a highly rewarding job as well as immigration opportunities.

Moreover, like most other Canadian provinces, Saskatchewan offers some of the most affordable living costs and great educational opportunities, with some of its universities listed among the top ten public universities in Canada.

Universities in Saskatchewan

  • University of Saskatchewan
  • Saskatchewan Polytechnic
  • University of Regina
  • Cumberland College

Overview of Canadian Provinces for Immigration

Canada has a points-based immigration system that assigns points to potential immigrants based on various factors, including age, education, work experience, language skills and adaptability.

In order to qualify for immigration to Canada, you must score at least 67 points out of 100.

There are a number of different ways to obtain points, and the most common way is through (1) work experience, (2) education or (3) language skills.

Canada’s Immigration Points System
Work Experience (maximum 15 points)You can get points from the years of your working experience:
• 1 year= 9 points
• 2-3 years = 11 points
• 4-5 years = 13 points
• 6 years or more = 15 points
Education (maximum 25 points)If you’ve been enrolled or studied on your country of origin, you must have:
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report for immigration purposes that shows your education is equal to a completed certificate, diploma or degree from Canadian schools.
Language Skills (maximum 28 points)You can get up to 28 points for your language skills in English and French based on your ability to:
• write
• read
• listen
• speak

The system is designed to attract the best and brightest immigrants to Canada and to ensure that they are able to integrate into Canadian society.

What Are the Immigration Requirements for Canada?

What Are the Immigration Requirements for Canada's Homepage

The process of immigrating to Canada can seem daunting, but don’t worry—we’re here to help. The first step is to determine if you meet the immigration requirements for Canada.

In order to be eligible to immigrate, you must meet certain criteria. You must have certain skills and education levels, work experience, and language abilities. You must also demonstrate that you can support yourself and your family financially.

The specific requirements vary depending on the class of immigration you apply for. For example, the requirements for family sponsorship are different from the requirements for refugee class.

The Three Classes of Immigration in Canada
CategoryRequirements
Family Sponsorship• A spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner 18 years of age or older. 
• Unmarried dependent child under the age of 22.
• A parent or grandparent.
• An orphaned sibling, nephew, niece or grandchild, unmarried and under 18 years of age.
Refugee Class• This class is for immigrants who aren’t allowed or afraid to go back to their country of origin.
• People who plan to stay permanent in Canada.
Economic Immigrant• Suitable education background. 
• Has work experience in a high-demand occupation.
• Language abilities under one of Canada’s official languages.

It’s important to note that the process of immigrating to Canada can take time, so be patient and stay organised.

Considerations When Choosing a Province to Migrate To

Considerations When Choosing a Province to Migrate To Homepage

When you’re considering which province in Canada to immigrate to, there are certain factors you should take into account before making a final decision. First and foremost, consider your language proficiency and the languages spoken in the province. 

Language Requirements in Canada

Immigrants can earn up to 50 additional points if they have good French speaking skills. 
For your application to be eligible for processing, you must include the results of one of the following language tests from a testing agency designated by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).

English

French

After you’ve taken the language proficiency test, you can check your result to know how many points you have earned.

Make sure your knowledge of the language spoken in the province matches up with the requirements of Canadian immigration. 

Next, make sure to research what type of visa that province is offering and any additional paperwork or documentation you might need to provide. 

In addition, you should consider the job market within each province—look into what skills are most valued or have a higher demand there.

Most High-Paying Jobs in Canada
Job TypeSalary Rate
Business Intelligence Analysts$77,870 per year
Cloud Architects$121,555 per year
Cloud Systems Engineers$120,000 per year
IT Project Manager $91,300 per year
Data Scientists $85461 per year
Developers (web, software, mobile)$75,628 per year
Data sourced from: SimpliLearn

Finally, weigh out other cultural factors such as healthcare and education systems available in each province. 

Doing your research in advance can help make your transition much smoother, so be sure to think through everything before settling into one particular region of Canada.

Benefits of Becoming a Canadian Permanent Resident

Benefits of Becoming a Canadian Permanent Resident's Homepage

Once you become a permanent resident of Canada, you can avail yourself of some of the country’s most amazing benefits and rights. 

Benefits of Being a Canadian Citizen

  • Being able to access good quality health care.
  • Having the right to work in any province.
  • Great quality of life in terms of cost of living, and food resources.
  • A privilege to vote in federal, provincial and municipal elections.
  • You’ll have the freedom to travel to other countries without the need of a visa.

As a permanent resident in Canada, you also have the right to live, work and study anywhere in the country without needing additional authorizations or permits. 

You will also be eligible for certain social benefits as well as tax exemptions; something that could ultimately improve your standard of living significantly.

So, when it comes to choosing the best province in Canada to immigrate to, all of the provinces mentioned have their own unique benefits that will make you want to stay for good. 

FAQs about the Best States for Immigrants in Canada

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