Canada is massive, certainly when compared to most other countries. Not a lot of people realize how greatly different its various regions are – both geographically and even culturally, to some extent. It could be easy to assume that because it is one country, that all provinces and territories would be quite similar. However, due to Canada’s vast land mass, it is very unique in that it has varying climates and environments, job opportunities, demographics, and even micro-cultures within the same province.
If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, it is highly recommended that you do your research on what each province and territory offers, and which is most suitable for your lifestyle. Here are just a few points to consider for each province and territory.
Yukon
One of the leading industries is mining.
The extreme weather needs to be taken into consideration. Short summers and long, extremely cold winters.
Northwest Territories
Mining for minerals, diamonds, oil and gas are a few of the most important industries in the Northwest Territories.
The province is working on funding for entrepreneurs by investing in the business and economic sector.
Like the Yukon, the extreme weather in the Northwest Territories should be taken into consideration.
Nunavut
Comprises most of Canada’s Artic, it has the smallest population of all of the provinces and territories and most residents are Inuit.
The main industry is mining.
Extremely cold winters, high cost of living, few services, and it is expensive to fly into and out of this region.
British Columbia (BC)
Main industries are forestry, mining (for minerals such as gold and silver), and fishing.
Small businesses are the main source of employment for those working in the private sector.
BC has the highest activity for start-ups and entrepreneurs; a Start-Up Visa might be the right option for you.
Alberta
Agriculture, forestry and energy (oil, natural gas and coal) are the leading industries.
If you are a skilled trades worker and wish to become a permanent resident, you can check whether you are eligible to apply under the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
Saskatchewan
Main industries are agriculture and livestock, oil and gas, and forestry.
Livelihoods are heavily based around extracting and refining many of the natural resources.
Manitoba
Agriculture is one of the main industries, specifically wheat.
Mining is another big industry; there are several active mines for nickel, copper, zinc and gold.
Ontario
Vehicle manufacturing is the top industry, followed by information and technology in the larger cities (Toronto, Ottawa and Waterloo).
Forestry is a main industry in Northern Ontario.
Quebec
The majority of the population is French-speaking.
Quebec is the world leader in hydroelectric power, and forestry and mining generates a substantial percentage of revenue for the province.
Montreal is known as the “culture capital”, with tourism, design, fashion, software development and more.
It is important to note that the province has its own immigration programs and requirements.
New Brunswick
Some of the main industries are manufacturing and tourism.
Fishing, forestry and mining are also relied on heavily.
Nova Scotia
Shipping and fishing are some of the main industries along with mining and drilling for oil.
Due to being on the coast, Nova Scotia has a mild, marine climate.
Prince Edward Island (PEI)
Agriculture is the main industry for PEI, growing potatoes makes up a large portion of that sector.
Tourism has allowed small businesses to thrive.
Newfoundland & Labrador
Some main industries are fishing, mining, forestry and energy.
Services industry is growing significantly in tourism, financial services and healthcare.
You want to make sure that the province you choose to immigrate to within Canada fits your needs and offers the right kind of opportunities for you and your family. If you are planning to immigrate to Canada and are still unsure about the programs you may qualify as per the province you want to settle, then it is recommended to contact an immigration lawyer who can offer practical and legal advice, and help you get started with the process. Furthermore, they will be able to explain the differences between the various provincial immigration programs and opportunities that you may qualify for.