Living in Montreal as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Citizens of most countries, including the United States, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, do not require a visa to enter Canada for stays of up to six months. However, some nationalities may require a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada. Expats should check Canada's visa and immigration requirements before traveling to Canada.

Language resources

French is the official language of Quebec, with English also widely spoken in Montreal's business and expat communities. Expats who plan to live and work in Montreal for an extended period may want to consider learning some basic French to integrate better with the local community. Language resources for English-speaking expats include universities, language schools, and language exchange programs.

Housing

Montreal's cost of living is significantly lower than other major cities in Canada, such as Toronto and Vancouver, making it an even more attractive destination for expats. Rent prices for a room in a shared house start around $400-600 CAD ($314-471 USD) per month, while a one-bedroom apartment can typically be found for $800-1200 CAD ($629-960 USD) per month. Two-bedroom apartments range from $1000-1700 CAD ($819-1344 USD) per month, while three plus bedroom houses can go for $1400-2200 CAD ($1101-1758 USD) per month.

Groceries

Montreal's grocery prices are generally lower than other major cities in Canada, although fresh produce can be somewhat more expensive than in other countries due to transportation costs. Expats can save money by shopping at local markets and specialty shops for fresh produce and bread, while larger supermarkets like Metropolitan and IGA offer a wider selection of imported foods.

Transportation

Transportation costs in Montreal are also relatively affordable, with a one-way transit ticket costing $3.25 CAD ($2.62 USD) per trip. Monthly transit passes are available for $102 CAD ($81 USD) per month, providing unlimited rides on all public transportation systems for commuters. Additionally, car-sharing services like car2go are a convenient and affordable alternative to car ownership, with memberships starting at $39 CAD ($31 USD) per year.

Montreal has a distinct four-season climate, characterized by frigid winters and warm summers. Temperatures can drop below -20°C (−4°F) in the winter, and snowfall is common between December and March. Summers are much milder, with temperatures often exceeding 25°C (77°F) during July and August. Autumn and spring are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and scenic foliage.

Montreal's booming economy offers a diverse range of career opportunities in various sectors. Key industries in Montreal include finance, technology, healthcare, and education. Leading companies such as IBM, Google, and Airbnb have established offices in Montreal, providing expats with exciting job prospects. Additionally, the city's expanding startup scene and support for innovation have attracted large-scale investments and international recognition.

Montreal's healthcare system is widely regarded as one of the best in Canada, with access to top-quality medical facilities and services. Montreal is home to several hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers, including the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) and Jewish General Hospital. Expats can also take advantage of a variety of wellness and preventative care programs, as well as a range of affordable health insurance options.

Montreal's transportation infrastructure is efficient and well-connected, with several modes of transportation that allow expats to move easily around the city. The Réseau Express Métropolitain (REM) is a new light rail network that connects the city's major transportation hubs, including the airport and downtown areas. Buses, trains, and subways are also available, ensuring that commuting is easy and convenient for expats.

Montreal is generally considered a safe and secure city, but it's still essential to take basic safety precautions, especially in high-traffic areas and public transportation systems. Expats should be aware of pickpocketing and other street-level crimes, and it's always wise to keep valuables out of sight and locked away in a secure location. Overall, Montreal's low crime rate and robust police and emergency services system make it a safe destination for expats.