After months of preparation, the endless forms and back and forth for the sponsorship documents, you are now finally looking at the real possibility of living a life in Quebec with your family. We’ve already laid out the application process on moving to Quebec with your family and the sponsorship requirements in our previous post. This time we hope to highlight the next steps; the important steps to take as a family, such as finding the right home, school and childcare for your little ones and healthcare for your family! 

Putting down roots in the right place for YOU

Did you know that Quebec ( Canada’s largest province ) consists of 17 regions? Of course, depending on your work, you might be tied down to find a home in one region for the time being. However, as a newcomer that plans to immigrate permanently in Quebec with their family, there’s no harm in exploring different regions. The cost of living would vary accordingly. Depending on your needs, which could range from finding a region with affordable rent, distance to essential services or great schools with smaller class-size, there’s an option to find the right place that works for you! 

 Navigating the childcare landscape of Quebec

Quebec is one of the provinces that takes childcare very seriously, providing a range of services to support working families. It’s necessary to understand the province’s subsidized daycare system, known for its affordability and quality. Moreover, the government is proud, and highly committed to its exceptional quality of early childhood education. Registering early is key here, as demands are understandably high. Additionally, there are also local playgroups and community centers to help your children make new friends and settle into their new home. These community centers are great for children and as well as families, as they aid you in integrating into this new culture. 

Health insurance for you and your family

One of the benefits of living in Canada is its access to publicly funded healthcare and Quebec is no exception. The healthcare system here ensures residents receive quality medical care. Upon your arrival, register with the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) to access healthcare services. RAMQ oversees both the provincial health plan and the Public Prescription Drug Insurance plan ( available depending on your employer ) or the Quebec Prescription Drug Insurance Plan. For details, visit here.

Furthermore, it would be helpful to familiarize yourself with local clinics, family doctors, and hospitals in your neighbourhood. It’s comforting to know that your family’s well-being is a priority in Quebec, where comprehensive healthcare coverage is the norm.

Cost of living in Quebec

In terms of affordability, the cities in Quebec consistently rank in the top ten list of the safest and most affordable in Canada. Like mentioned before, the cost of living in Quebec would vary according to where exactly you put down your roots. The good news is in comparison to other provinces in Canada, Quebec has consistently been ranked at the lower end on its cost of living index. Factors such as affordable housing, subsidized child care and lower electricity costs contribute quite a bit to this statistic.   

For your benefit, we have also laid out an extensive list of affordable neighbourhoods, and cost of living specifically in Montreal.  

Benefits of living in Quebec

Like every place, there are bound to be things you like and dislike about life in Quebec depending on what’s important to you. However, many would say that the benefits of living in Quebec far outweigh its drawbacks; after all this diverse province boasts of distinct historical, geographical and cultural significance! 

As a newcomer, it’s important to embrace the vibrant culture as a family, explore all it has to offer and be ready for an adventure of a lifetime.