Montreal Voted in the Top 10 Best Places in the World for Newcomers

Montreal has long been a popular destination for newcomers coming to Canada. Between July 1st, 2020 and June 30th, 2021, 33,665 immigrants were welcomed to Quebec, with a majority going to Montreal. With many employment opportunities, a lower cost of living, universal health care and rich culture, and so much more, it is no surprise why so many have chosen to immigrate to Montreal. 

In a recent article published by the language learning site Preply, Montreal was ranked in the top ten best places in the world for newcomers to live. Montreal was ranked in tenth place and was the highest-ranking Canadian city according to the report. The only other Canadian city to make the list was Ottawa in 23rd place. The study considers eleven metrics such as cost of living, salary, safety, attractions, internet speed, and more to determine the rankings.

It’s no big surprise that Montreal made the list as it has been a popular destination for newcomers to Canada for years. In fact, Quebec is the third most popular province for newcomers coming to Canada. Montreal is Quebec’s most populous city and is an appealing destination for many when coming to Canada. 

Montreal is known for its rich French heritage, culture, diversity and overall affordability. Compared to other major Canadian cities, Montreal is more affordable and has a lower cost of living. Montreal also has a high job vacancy rate, meaning that there are many job opportunities for those looking to immigrate to the area to work. In fact, according to the latest Job Vacancy and Wage Survey, immigration will be crucial to fill many of these job vacancies. 

What are the best ways to immigrate to Quebec?

As Montreal is located in the province of Quebec, immigration can be a bit different than in some of the other provinces. Here are just a few of the best ways to immigrate to Montreal:

If you are a French speaker, then the best way to immigrate is through the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ). There are two streams under the Quebec Experience Program, those with Quebec work experience and those who have studied in Quebec.

The Quebec Experience Program – Working in Quebec

To qualify under the stream for workers, you must be working in Quebec at the time of application. Many candidates achieve this through a working holiday visa, a young professionals program, or an international co-op internship. You must also have at least 12 months of full-time work experience in the previous 2 years at the management, professional, or technical level.

If you meet these requirements, applying through PEQ as a worker will give you the permanent status to live and work in Quebec.

The Quebec Experience Program – Studying in Quebec

The second stream of PEQ is for those completing post-secondary studies in Quebec. These applicants still require advanced-intermediate proficiency in French. However, in the study stream of PEQ, candidates must show that they have completed (or will complete within 6 months) an eligible post-secondary program in Quebec.

Generally, most post-secondary programs of two or more years are eligible. However, those completing a diploma of vocational studies (DEP) should check to ensure that their program meets the minimum requirements.

If you have completed your post-secondary studies in Quebec, then PEQ could be your best option to becoming a permanent resident.

Quebec Skilled Worker Program

The Quebec Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP) is an immigration program operated by the province of Quebec for candidates who have skilled work experience and will be able to make lasting contributions to Quebec’s economy as members of the workforce.

Quebec has a special agreement on immigration with the Government of Canada. Quebec has its own rules for choosing immigrants who will adapt well to living in the province. 

Interested applicants need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) online. Candidates who receive an invitation have 60 days to then submit a complete application. Approved candidates receive a Quebec Selection Certificate which allows them to apply for Canadian permanent residence. 

Don’t fit the requirements for these programs? There are just a few of the ways to immigrate to Quebec. If you’d like to learn more about how you can immigrate to Montreal or any other Canadian city, then complete our free online assessment form. 

Interested in learning more about your options to immigrate to Canada? Complete our free online assessment form today!