Quebec has the distinction of being the only province in Canada whose population is mainly French speaking. French is the only official language although there are English speaking communities, schools and other institutions in the western part of Montreal. The province is the largest in terms of land mass and has the second largest population at just over 7.5 million people. The government of Quebec has slightly different regulations and procedures than other state governments and expats moving to the area need to be aware of these.

The climate is very similar to that of Ontario, with humid continental climates in the south and west of the province. The central part of the province has a subarctic climate with long cold winters and milder summers. The northern part has an arctic climate with extremely cold winters and short mild summers.

Quebec – Employment

Montreal has a number of industries based there which offer opportunities for expats. These include aircraft manufacture, telecommunications companies and computer companies. Those who have specialist skills in these areas such as programmers and designers will find work much easier to come by. Other industries in other parts of the province include agriculture, timber, paper manufacture and energy companies. Tourism is also playing a significant part in the Quebec economy.

There is a need for skilled and experienced teachers, doctors and nurses, particularly in more rural areas of the province. The website of the Quebec government gives further information on what needs to be done to apply for the skilled migrant programme. It should be noted that the ability to speak French fluently for teaching and medical work will be considered to be compulsory as French is the official language there. The government website has links to employment agencies and job vacancies as well as organisations which specialise in helping newcomers to settle into the region.

Quebec – Property

Most people think of Montreal when considering a move to the province of Quebec. There are a number of districts to choose from and the city is truly multicultural. The Downtown district is filled with skyscrapers and the area is known for its excellent shopping areas. Apartments in the area are much sought after by young professionals who work in the district and property prices reflect the demand. The Old Montreal district is one of the oldest parts of town and is filled with period homes and cobbled streets. The area has undergone a restoration programme in recent years which has added value to the properties in the area. The district has good schools and leisure facilities and is ideal for those with families.

The Griffintown district is another old part of the city and was first inhabited by Irish settlers. There are many period properties in the area and homes are mainly townhouses and detached family homes. This district is beginning to attract businesses to the area. The Latin Quarter is known as the Bistro district, with large numbers of restaurants and other leisure facilities. Most of the resident are young and is very popular with students. Many properties are rented in the area. The Plateau district is a multiethnic area and is densely populated with townhouses and apartment buildings on most streets. The area is considered to be up and coming and property prices are beginning to rise there.

Quebec City also has much to offer expats. The Cote-de-Beaupre area is popular with tourists, making property in the area much sought after and prices are steadily rising. The area has good leisure facilities and some good schools, so is good for those with families. The Place-Royal is one of the oldest districts in the city and marks the start of the French occupation of this part of the country. Many of the properties have period features and property prices are higher than in other parts of the city.

The Quartier Petit Champlain is an old commercial district. It has cobbled streets and properties in the area are a mix of townhouses and apartments. Prices are high when compared with other areas, mainly due to the demand. The Place d’Youville is considered to be one of the livelier areas of the city, but has quieter streets which are ideal for families. The area has good leisure facilities and there are good schools nearby.