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Immigrate to Canada

Best cities to work in Canada

written by
Natasha Machado
7/11/2024
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5 min
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Did you know that, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Canada is among the 10 best countries to work in the world? This surprising fact attracts thousands of Brazilians every year in search of professional opportunities and a better quality of life. In this article, we'll explore the best Canadian cities to work in and why they stand out.

Toronto: the vibrant metropolis

Population: 6,431,000 inhabitants (2024)

Climate: Humid continental, average annual temperature of 9.4°C

Predominant language: English

Minimum wage: CAD 17.20 per hour (2024)

Toronto is the largest city in Canada and one of the world's leading financial centers. In addition to its economic greatness, the city offers a high quality of life, with diverse leisure, culture and education options. For those who want to grow professionally, Toronto is a smart choice.

The city is home to several multinational companies and startups, offering a dynamic environment for professionals from all fields. The labor market is competitive, but it also offers many opportunities for those who are willing to put in the effort. Toronto is renowned for its cultural diversity, which makes it easy for foreigners to integrate into the labor market.

Provincial Program (OINP - Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program): The OINP is the economic immigration program for the province of Ontario, where Toronto is located. The program:

  • Works in collaboration with the Government of Canada through IRCC
  • Allows foreign workers, international students, and other qualified professionals to apply for a provincial appointment
  • Selects candidates based on the skills and experience necessary for the Ontario economy
  • Offers a path to permanent residence after approval by the federal government

Humber College

For those looking to study in Toronto, the Humber College it is a public institution recognized for the quality of its teaching. Studying at a public institution like Humber offers two main advantages:

  • High employability: Public colleges have a high rate of employability after graduation. At Humber, more than 90% of students are employed within the first 6 months of graduating.
  • Extensive infrastructure and resources: Humber College has modern facilities, state-of-the-art laboratories, and a wide range of academic programs. This provides students with access to resources that enrich the educational experience.

Humber stands out for its practical methodology, with programs that include work-integrated learning, connecting students directly with the market. Areas such as Information Technology, Business, Engineering, and Marketing are especially strong, preparing graduates for high rates of employability and professional success.

ILAC

Another prominent institution is ILAC (International Language Academy of Canada), a private school specialized in teaching English and technical diplomas by ILAC College. Studying at a private institution such as ILAC offers two main advantages:

  • Customized and flexible programs: Private institutions such as ILAC tend to offer courses adapted to individual needs, with different schedule and intensity options, allowing for more efficient learning.
  • International environment and networking: ILAC attracts students from more than 75 countries, creating a multicultural environment that expands the network of contacts and promotes enriching cultural exchanges.

ILAC is renowned for its excellence in teaching English, with highly qualified teachers and an approach focused on linguistic immersion. In addition, it supports progression to Canadian universities, making it an ideal gateway for those who wish to continue their studies in the country.

If you wish to study at these institutions, Be Easy can help make that dream a reality, helping with the entire exchange and enrollment process.

Vancouver: technology and quality of life

Population: 737,216 inhabitants (2024)

Climate: Oceanic, average annual temperature of 11.3°C

Predominant language: English

Minimum wage: CAD 17.40 per hour (2024)

Vancouver, located on Canada's west coast, is renowned for its natural beauty and exceptional quality of life. In addition, the city stands out as a hub of technology and innovation, attracting professionals from all over the world.

  • Cost of living: Although it's one of the most expensive cities in Canada, the high salaries offset the high cost of living.
  • Technology and innovation: Vancouver is home to many technology companies, offering excellent opportunities for professionals in the field.
  • Quality of life: With its stunning landscapes and mild climate, Vancouver is ideal for those who value a work-life balance.
  • Education: Vancouver has renowned educational institutions, making it easy to choose between Public Colleges or Private Colleges in Canada.

Provincial Program (BC PNP - British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program): The BC PNP offers two main aspects:

  1. Immigration Skills:
    • Aimed at workers and recent graduates with skills needed by BC employers
    • Prioritizes specific sectors such as technology (BC PNP Tech), health, civil construction and child care
    • Offers special support for regional communities outside the Vancouver metropolitan area
  2. Entrepreneur Immigration:
    • For experienced entrepreneurs who intend to actively create and manage a business in the province
    • Includes a specific pilot program for regions outside of Vancouver
    • Supports the economic development of local communities

Douglas College

For those who wish to study in Vancouver, the Douglas College it is a prominent public institution. Studying at a public institution such as Douglas College has two main advantages:

  • Academic recognition: Public institutions are widely recognized for academic excellence, providing degrees valued in the labor market.
  • Extensive resources and infrastructure: With modern laboratories and comprehensive libraries, students have access to tools that enrich their training.

Douglas College stands out for offering practical, market-oriented programs in the areas of Business, Information Technology, Health, and the Arts. With smaller class sizes, students receive personalized attention, making learning easier. In addition, the institution has partnerships with local companies, opening doors to internships and employment opportunities.

Greystone College

Another renowned option in Vancouver is Greystone College , a private institution specialized in vocational programs. Studying at a private institution like Greystone College offers three key advantages:

  • Program flexibility: Greystone offers courses that are adaptable to the needs of students, with short duration and frequent start options throughout the year.
  • Focus on the labor market: With curricula aligned with current trends, the programs are designed to prepare students for rapid professional integration.
  • Attractive prices: Private colleges are a great option for those who are on a budget but dream of studying and working in Canada.

Greystone College is renowned for its courses in the areas of Hospitality, Business, and Digital Marketing. With experienced instructors and industry connections, students have the opportunity to learn from practicing professionals. In addition, the school offers support in the search for internships, facilitating the acquisition of practical experience in Canada.

Montreal: the bilingual city

Population: 4,342,000 inhabitants (2024)

Climate: Humid continental, average annual temperature of 6.8°C

Predominant language: French and English

Minimum wage: CAD 15.75 per hour (2024)

Montreal is the second largest city in Canada and one of the country's most important cultural centers. Bilingualism (English and French) is one of the city's main characteristics, offering a diverse and vibrant labor market.

The technology sector is booming in Montreal, with many startups and established companies choosing the city as a base. In addition, the city is an important hub for creative industries, such as cinema, video games, and design. The cost of living in Montreal is lower compared to Toronto and Vancouver, making it an attractive option for those who want to save money.

EC Montreal

For those interested in improving their language skills, EC Montreal it is a prominent private school. Studying at a private institution like EC offers two main advantages:

  • Flexible and customized programs: EC offers a variety of English and French courses, from intensive to exam preparation, adapted to the specific needs of each student.
  • Innovative technology and methodologies: With modern resources and interactive teaching approaches, EC ensures effective and engaging learning.

EC Montreal stands out for its welcoming and multicultural environment. Located in the heart of the city, the school facilitates cultural immersion, allowing students to practice the language on a daily basis while exploring the charms of Montreal.

ILSC Montréal

Another renowned institution is ILSC Montréal , also a private school specialized in teaching languages. Studying at ILSC provides two main advantages:

  • Diversity of courses and specializations: ILSC offers a wide range of programs, including courses in English, French, and options aimed at business or academic preparation.
  • Global network and networking opportunities: As part of an educational group with schools in several countries, ILSC connects students to an international community, expanding personal and professional horizons.

ILSC Montreal is renowned for its commitment to quality and personalization of teaching. With experienced teachers and extracurricular activities, students not only learn the language but also experience the local culture, enriching their experience in Canada.

Calgary: opportunities in the energy sector

Population: 1,491,900 inhabitants (2024)

Climate: Semi-arid, average annual temperature of 4.4°C

Predominant language: English

Minimum wage: CAD 15.00 per hour (2024)

Calgary is renowned for its strong energy sector, especially oil and gas. The city offers excellent opportunities for professionals in these areas, in addition to a lower cost of living compared to other large Canadian cities.

  1. Energy sector: Calgary is one of the major centers of Canada's oil and gas industry, offering many employment opportunities.
  2. Quality of life: The city offers an excellent quality of life, with a modern infrastructure and many leisure options.
  3. Cost of living: Compared to other major cities, Calgary has a more affordable cost of living, which is a major draw.
  4. Education: The city has high-quality educational institutions, preparing professionals for the local labor market.

Provincial Program (AAIP - Alberta Advantage Immigration Program): The AAIP is an economic immigration program that offers four main aspects:

  1. Tourism and Hospitality Stream:
    • For candidates living and working in Alberta in the tourism and hospitality sector
    • Requires a full-time job offer from an employer in the sector
  2. Alberta Opportunity Stream:
    • For candidates living and working in Alberta
    • Need a job offer from an Alberta employer
  3. Alberta Express Entry Stream:
    • Connected with the federal Express Entry system
    • It has specific paths for health professionals, technology, and law enforcement officers
    • Aligned with the province's economic and sectoral priorities
  4. Rural Renewal Stream:
    • For designated communities that can recruit qualified candidates
    • Includes options for temporary foreign workers and refugees through the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP)

The program allows nominees to apply for permanent residence along with spouse/partner and dependent children.

Calgary Catholic School District

For families who want to provide their child with a quality education in Calgary, the Calgary Catholic School District is an exceptional option for high school. This public institution combines academic excellence with Catholic values, focusing on the integral development of students through:

  • Excellent Catholic education:
    • It combines high-level academic teaching with ethical and moral values.
    • Chaplains and chapels at every school provide spiritual support and an environment for reflection.
  • Diversity of programs:
    • Specialized programs such as Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) prepare students for renowned universities.
    • Unique options such as bilingualism in French and Spanish, Hockey Canada Skills Academy and marching bands develop multiple talents.
  • Preparing for the future:
    • Dual education programs allow you to earn college credit during high school.
    • Partnerships with post-secondary institutions and vocational programs facilitate the transition to higher education or the labor market.
  • Excellence in arts and culture:
    • Award-winning programs in music, theater, and visual arts enrich artistic education.
    • It features the only high school marching band in Western Canada, offering unique experiences.

If you're considering offering your child the opportunity to study in Calgary, Be Easy is ready to assist at every stage. Our specialized staff facilitates the entire exchange and enrollment process, ensuring that your child's educational experience in Canada is enriching and smooth.

Ottawa: the national capital

Population: 1,452,000 inhabitants (2024)

Climate: Humid continental, average annual temperature of 6.6°C 

Predominant language: English and French 

Minimum wage: CAD 17.20 per hour (2024)

Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is renowned for its economic stability and high quality of life. The city offers many opportunities for those who wish to work in the public sector, in addition to having a growing technology sector.

In addition to being the seat of the Canadian government, Ottawa has a strong economy based on technology and innovation. The city is ideal for professionals seeking stability and quality of life, with excellent schools and a safe environment to live and work.

Provincial Program (OINP - Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program): As part of the province of Ontario, Ottawa is also covered by the OINP, which:

  • Works in collaboration with the Government of Canada through IRCC
  • Allows foreign workers, international students, and other qualified professionals to apply for a provincial appointment
  • Selects candidates based on the skills and experience necessary for the Ontario economy
  • Offers a path to permanent residence after approval by the federal government

Comparative Analysis of Canada's Best Cities to Work For

O Canadian labor market offers unique opportunities through its main cities. Em Toronto, the largest financial center in the country, professionals find a multicultural environment with a strong presence of startups and multinationals, guaranteeing a minimum wage of CAD 17.20/h. For those seeking technology and innovation, Vancouver leads with the best base compensation (CAD 17.40/h) and superior quality of life, compensating for its high cost.

Montreal stands out for its bilingual differential and creative hub, providing excellent cost-benefit ratio for immigrants with a minimum wage of CAD 15.75/h. In the energy sector, Calgary offers promising opportunities and low cost of living, even with a base salary of CAD 15.00/h. The capital Ottawa balances public sector stability and emerging technology, with compensation of CAD 17.20/hr and first-class infrastructure.

Key factors for choosing your city in Canada

  • Provincial immigration programs
  • Featured economic sectors
  • Cost of living x Salary
  • Climate and quality of life
  • Language requirements

Choosing the ideal destination will depend on your professional goals and personal preferences, always considering the immigration program best suited to your profile.

Be Easy

Canada offers many options for those who want to work and live abroad. Each city has its peculiarities and advantages, making the country an attractive choice for professionals from various fields. If you're thinking about moving to Canada and need guidance, contact Be Easy Exchange. Our team is ready to help you find the best program to learn a language or go to university abroad. Let's together turn your dreams into reality!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy