Overview
Moving to Quebec
Quebec selects many economic immigrants through its own programs and conducts public life primarily in French. Montréal, Québec City and the regions differ in job mix, housing, transport and language environment.
Treat French as a settlement requirement
French is Quebec’s official language and is central to employment, government services and education. Montréal has substantial multilingual workplaces, but English alone narrows opportunities and does not remove legal language requirements.
Use free Quebec francisation services where eligible.
Compare Montréal, Québec City and regions
Montréal leads in technology, aerospace, finance, universities, life sciences, culture and logistics. Québec City has government, insurance, technology and tourism; regional economies include manufacturing, agriculture, resources and health services.
Housing cost and transit access vary sharply by neighbourhood.
Understand Quebec public systems
Eligible residents register with RAMQ, while workers and families also interact with Revenu Québec, provincial child-care and school systems. Many newcomers must observe a health-insurance waiting period.
Quebec civil law and residential leases differ from common-law provinces.
Choose education with language rules in mind
Most children attend French-language public school. Eligibility for English-language public instruction is governed by the Charter of the French language and is not based simply on a parent’s preference.
CEGEP is a distinct stage between secondary school and university for many students.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about moving to quebec
Can a newcomer live in Quebec without French?
It is possible in some settings, but French is essential to broad employment, public services and long-term integration.
Can any child attend English public school?
No. Eligibility is governed by Quebec law and specific criteria.
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