Quebec stands as the second most populous province in Canada, boasting a population exceeding 8.7 million residents. Among its notable features are the three major metropolitan areas of Montreal, Quebec, and Sherbrooke.
Distinguished by its status as Canada’s sole predominantly French-speaking region, Quebec offers a unique cultural landscape unlike any other province or territory in the country. This linguistic distinction renders Quebec an attractive destination for immigrants hailing from French-speaking nations, as well as those aspiring to fluency in the language.
For individuals considering relocation to Quebec, this guide serves as a comprehensive resource, addressing key facets ranging from housing to healthcare within the province.
Housing
Quebec hosts one of Canada’s largest housing markets, offering a variety of properties whose prices and types vary according to location, family size, and housing preferences.
As of the latest update in August 2023, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Montreal stands at $1,752 CAD, while in Quebec City, it amounts to $1,234 for a similar unit. Notably, the average rent in Quebec falls below the national average of $1,860.
Commuting
A significant majority, approximately 76%, of Quebec’s residents residing in its three largest metropolitan areas live within 500 meters of public transit options, which encompass subways and buses.
While Montreal boasts the Société de Transport de Montréal (STM), comprising an extensive network of buses and subways, Sherbrooke and Quebec City operate their respective bus systems. Despite the availability of public transportation, over 75% of residents in the metropolitan areas of Montreal, Quebec City, and Sherbrooke rely on personal vehicles for commuting, making car ownership a viable option upon relocation to the province.
Moreover, newly arrived Quebec residents may utilize their foreign driver’s license for the initial six months. Subsequently, acquiring a provincial driver’s license from the Government of Quebec becomes mandatory to continue operating a motor vehicle in Canada.
Employment
Quebec’s primary industries in terms of employment encompass trade occupations, healthcare, social assistance, and manufacturing, offering a spectrum of job opportunities ranging from retail and healthcare services to manufacturing roles.
Healthcare
Aligned with Canada’s universal healthcare model, Quebec provides public healthcare coverage funded through resident taxes. Newcomers aged 18 and above may need to wait up to three months before becoming eligible for public healthcare coverage in the province, after which a valid health card grants access to free healthcare services.
Education
Quebec’s education system admits children around the age of 5, with public education offered free of charge until high school graduation. While private schooling is an option, tuition fees apply.
Regarding post-secondary education, Quebec houses nearly 430 Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), facilitating access to programs that qualify graduates for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP), a pathway to permanent residency.
Taxation
Quebec imposes a combined sales tax of 14.975%, comprising a standard Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 5% and a Quebec Sales Tax of 9.975%. Income tax rates vary based on individual earnings.
Newcomer Services in Quebec Quebec extends a range of resources to assist newcomers, including Accompagnement Quebec, a free service aiding immigrants with settlement and language acquisition, and AIDE inc., a Francophone service provider offering settlement services in Sherbrooke. Additionally, the Government of Quebec’s online resources help newcomers locate local service providers tailored to their needs.
