Alberta, situated between British Columbia to the west and Saskatchewan to the east, stands as one of Canada’s larger provinces. A distinguishing feature of Alberta is its celebrated outdoor activity lifestyle and natural splendor.
With a population of newcomers exceeding approximately 1 million immigrants, Alberta has witnessed a substantial influx of settlers. The majority of newcomers settle within the province’s primary Census Metropolitan Areas (CMAs), notably Calgary, Edmonton, and Lethbridge.
Alberta boasts higher income levels compared to the national average in Canada. As per the Government of Alberta, the province offers the highest median after-tax income nationwide, consequently affording families a relatively higher standard of living compared to other regions of Canada.
For those considering a move to Alberta or seeking insights into life within the province, this article will delve into topics such as housing, healthcare, and taxation.
Housing
Alberta accommodates over 4.6 million residents, ranking it as Canada’s fourth most populous province. Many newcomers to the province explore the rental market for housing options.
As of August 2023, the average rental cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Calgary stood at $1,728, while in Edmonton, it averaged $1,279, and in Lethbridge, it averaged $1,181.
Some provincial resources to aid in housing search include:
- Government of Alberta’s Digital Service
- Government of Alberta’s Affordable Housing Resources
Commuting
At least 71% of residents in Alberta’s major CMAs reside within 500 meters of a public transit access point, facilitating convenient access to buses or other public transportation.
Calgary and Edmonton feature train transit systems catering to their communities. Over 40,600 people in Calgary and over 33,000 in Edmonton utilize public transportation for intra-city travel.
The Calgary Transit, Edmonton Transit Service, and the Lethbridge Transit systems operate fleets of buses, trains, and other transport modes to serve their communities.
However, the majority of residents in Alberta’s primary CMAs rely on personal vehicles for commuting, underscoring the importance of obtaining an Alberta Driver’s License.
During the initial 90 days of residency in Alberta, individuals may operate a motor vehicle using their foreign driver’s license. Subsequently, they must acquire an Alberta driver’s license to continue driving.
Employment
The three largest industries in Alberta, in terms of employment, are trade occupations, healthcare and social assistance, and construction.
Over 345,000 individuals in Alberta are employed in trade occupations, including wholesale and retail trades. Additionally, more than 232,000 residents work in healthcare and social assistance professions, focusing on community well-being. Furthermore, over 178,000 people are engaged in Alberta’s construction sector, crucial for infrastructure development.
Some provincial resources for job seekers include:
ALIS, in collaboration with the Government of Alberta Alberta Association of Immigrant Serving Agencies (AAISA) Alberta Supports Healthcare:
Newcomers to Alberta face a three-month waiting period for public healthcare coverage. Upon completion of the waiting period, newcomers can access free healthcare with a valid provincial health card.
To obtain a provincial health card in Alberta, applicants must submit supporting documents confirming Alberta residency, identity, and legal entitlement to reside in Canada.
Education
Children of newcomers in Alberta commence their provincial education at age six, continuing mandatory education until high school graduation.
From kindergarten to high school, Alberta residents benefit from free education within the public school system. Alternatively, the province offers private or boarding school options requiring tuition fees.
The provincial government provides a webpage detailing the provincial curriculum from kindergarten to grade 12.
Regarding post-secondary education, Alberta hosts over 150 Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), offering programs eligible for Post Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs), enabling non-permanent resident Canadian newcomers to work in Canada upon program completion.
Taxation
Alberta primarily levies sales and income taxes. Residents are subject to a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST), notably lower than other provinces.
Income tax in Alberta operates on a bracketed system, requiring residents to pay taxes based on their annual income levels.
Newcomer Services
Alberta’s provincial government offers settlement services to newcomers, encompassing pre-arrival resources, community support, childcare, and language assistance.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) furnishes government-funded services to Canadian newcomers, aiding in employment, housing, and school enrollment.
