Best Destinations for immigrants in Canada
Immigrate to Canada
Every year, Canada welcomes millions of visitors and immigrants from around the world. As a result, many people choose Canada to build a stable life and a brighter future. To support newcomers, the Government of Canada offers a wide range of immigration programs.
Among hundreds of Canadian cities, Calgary, Vancouver, and Toronto stand out as the most popular destinations for immigrants.
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Among Canadian cities, Calgary remains one of the most preferred places to live. In fact, the city has an impressive livability score of 97.5. It earned perfect scores in Stability, Healthcare, Education, and Infrastructure. Additionally, Calgary scored highly in Culture and Environment.
Calgary is the largest city in Alberta, with a population of about 1.2 million. Moreover, it attracts immigrants working in oil, gas, and related industries. Since 2011, immigration to Calgary has grown steadily. By 2016, nearly 46% of immigrants chose Calgary as their new home.
Immigration Options in Alberta
The Government of Alberta offers several immigration pathways through the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP):
- Alberta Opportunity Stream – For candidates working in in-demand occupations
- Alberta Self-Employed Farmer Stream – For experienced farmers planning to operate a farm in Alberta
- Alberta Express Entry Stream – Allows Alberta to select skilled candidates directly from the federal Express Entry pool
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Vancouver is Canada’s third most populous city, with over 2.4 million residents. Similarly, the city holds a strong livability score of 97.3, supported by excellent healthcare, education, and environmental quality.
Furthermore, Vancouver ranks as the third-largest film production hub in North America. Between 2011 and 2016, more than 142,000 immigrants settled in Vancouver. As a result, the city received 81% of all immigrants to British Columbia during that period.
Immigration Options in British Columbia
British Columbia operates its immigration system under the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP). The main streams include:
- Entrepreneur Immigration – For international entrepreneurs looking to invest and settle in B.C.
- Skills Immigration (including Express Entry BC) – For skilled workers and graduates selected through regular provincial draws
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Toronto is Canada’s largest city and one of North America’s fastest-growing tech hubs. Notably, its technology sector competes directly with Silicon Valley and Seattle. The city holds a livability score of 97.2, supported by strong healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Since 2013, Toronto has created over 80,000 technology jobs. Consequently, immigrants continue to choose the city in large numbers. Between 2011 and 2016, 76% of immigrants to Ontario settled in Toronto. Today, immigrants make up 46% of the Greater Toronto Area’s population.
Immigration Options in Ontario
Ontario accepts immigrants through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), which includes:
- Human Capital Category – Includes Express Entry-linked streams such as the Human Capital Priorities Stream
- Employer Job Offer Category – For foreign workers and international students with valid job offers
- Business Category – For entrepreneurs planning to start or purchase a business in Ontario
Start Your Canada Immigration Journey
Ultimately, Canada offers diverse opportunities across provinces and cities, each with unique advantages. Therefore, choosing the right city and immigration pathway is crucial.
Book a one-to-one consultation with a Senior Practitioner at SPS Canada Immigration to explore your Canada immigration options. With expert guidance, you can clarify doubts, understand eligibility, and confidently plan your move to Canada.
