Top 3 Cities to Live in if You Immigrate to Canada in 2024

Canada is a top destination for immigrants. However, deciding which Canadian city to migrate to can be confusing, as there are too many exceptional ones. To ensure you don't get overly confused, we've helped you narrow your search to three cities that stand out.

Additionally, it’s essential to understand the different immigration pathways to Canada and determine which visa option best suits your circumstances. Having a Canadian immigration lawyer guide you through the process is helpful.

Let's dive right into the best Canadian cities for immigrants.

Which Cities in Canada Offer the Best Quality of Life for Immigrants?

Toronto, Ontario

According to World Population Review, Toronto is one of the top Canadian cities for immigrants, and almost half the city’s population is foreign-based.

The city's employment rate is high, thanks to the presence of high-profile companies. The high standard of living and low crime index also make it a decent place to live.

Toronto is diverse, and you can experience the beauty in diversity through year-round festivals like the Geary Art Crawl, the Toronto Fringe Festival, and the Cabbagetown Festival. Ever heard of the Toronto International Film Festival? You also get to experience it firsthand.

The city is also heaven for students willing to study in Canada. You get a high-quality education, top academic infrastructure, and a vibrant campus life that makes learning a fun experience, not to mention ample employment opportunities after graduation.

Toronto’s High Park

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver in British Columbia is another top option if you’re still undecided on where to live in Canada.

The Vancouver Folk Music Festival and the Vancouver International Film Festival should be music to your ears if you enjoy recreational activities. Vancouver also has numerous soft-sandy beaches where you can cool off after a long term at work. Alternatively, you can hike out your worries at the Grouse Grind Trail or Sasamat Trail. There are just many fun things you can do in Vancouver.

No city is a top one without a high standard of living, and Vancouver checks that box. Also, the plethora of high-paying employment opportunities available to you across technology, film, construction, and natural resources make it one of the best Canadian cities for immigrants. 

If you’re a student, Vancouver offers a good selection of top schools and a high quality of education. If you wish to continue working in Canada, you can apply for a work permit in the city after you've completed your education.

Vancouver is home to hundreds of public artworks.

Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is another city to consider if you’re still hunting for the best places to settle in Canada. This magical city isn’t only heaven in Canada, but many consider it one of the most livable cities in the entire world.

Calgary’s riches are mainly due to the thriving oil and gas sector, which boasts one of the world’s largest reserves. If you work in oil and gas, it’s the best place in Canada to migrate to unless other factors matter more to you. Tourism and agriculture also contribute hugely to Calgary’s economy.

You must’ve heard of the Calgary Stampede if you’re familiar with Canada, and the spectacle is all yours to witness if you migrate to the city.

Calgary has a high standard of living. Transportation is also top-notch, and if you plan to study in Canada, the city is home away from home. It boasts institutions like the University of Calgary and Ambrose University College, both among Canada's finest universities.

Calgary’s Stephen Avenue Walk is one of Canada’s best pedestrian streets.

How Can You Migrate to Canada?

Here are three of the most commonly used immigration programs among Canadian immigrants.

Express Entry

Express Entry in Canada allows you to gain Permanent Residency (PR) status. With PR status, you can live and work in the country and enjoy many other immigrant benefits. However, Express Entry is one of the toughest application programs because it uses a point system to rank applicants.

It’s you competing against many other applicants to see who would get approved. If you score high, you’ll get approved, but don’t despair if you don’t, as the Provincial Nominee Program provides you with an alternative.

Provincial Nominee Program

The Provincial Nominee Program is another way to enter any of the best Canadian cities for immigrants if you miss out via express entry. Here, provinces and territories would nominate from any of the unqualified members of the Express Entry. If you’re selected and approved, you can travel to Canada to go live and work in that particular province/territory.

The selection criteria for each province vary, but students, skilled workers, business people, and semi-skilled workers constitute the four most in-demand demographics.

Canada Student Visa

You can also immigrate to Canada to study, but you'll need a student visa and study permit.

To obtain the study permit, you may be asked to submit an acceptance letter from your designated learning institution, a provincial attestation letter, and proof of identity, among other documents. You’ll automatically get a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) once your study permit is approved, after which you can work or study in Canada.

Why Do You Need a Canada Immigration Lawyer to Migrate to Canada?

Discrepancies in your application are one of the top reasons they get rejected. A Canadian immigration attorney can help you review your applications and suggest corrections before you submit them. Their guidance can potentially increase your chances of getting accepted.

Also, getting a lawyer well-versed in Canadian immigration laws can help you handle other legal aspects of the procedure. For instance, if you receive a visa denial, an attorney can help you pursue a judicial review or an appeal.

Conclusion

Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary are among the best Canadian cities for newcomers to settle in 2024. They all have all the necessities you need to live happily in Canada. Advisably, narrow your research to your specific area or zone to enable you to make a more informed decision.

Evaluate the visa application process so you can choose the perfect one. If you're eligible for Canadian immigration and work with a qualified lawyer, your chances of getting your application approved are high.