10 Best Provinces in Canada for PR in 2026: Guide for Students, Immigrants, & Families
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Ontario, BC, and Alberta rank among the best provinces in Canada for PR in 2026. Explore which province is easy to get PR in Canada for international students and expats to make your Canadian dream a reality in 2026!
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Table of Contents
- 1. Ontario
- 2. British Columbia
- 3. Alberta
- 4. Saskatchewan
- 5. Manitoba
- 6. Nova Scotia
- 7. New Brunswick
- 8. Newfoundland and Labrador
- 9. Prince Edward Island
- 10. Quebec
- Which Canadian Province Has the Best Quality of Life?
- Which PNP is Right for Your Canada Immigration in 2026?
- How to Pick a Province for Canada PR After Graduation in 2026?
- Ensure Your Timely Canada Immigration With ÿմ
Aside from the traditional provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, immigrants and students are actively searching for the best provinces in Canada for PR in 2026. Knowing which province is best to get PR in Canada for international students as well as working professionals, is crucial to make the right immigration plans. However, this decision depends on multiple factors like living conditions, living costs, and opportunities, universities that offer your chosen course, etc.
Our research shows Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan as ideal provinces for students aiming for Canadian PR, factoring in living costs and other expenses. In this article, we will understand which is the easiest province to get PR in Canada or which is the best province to live in Canada in 2026 for immigrants and students.
1. Ontario
Ontario is Canada’s economic powerhouse, which also offers a robust job market in finance, technology, and healthcare. Moreover, its multicultural cities provide a welcoming environment for international students and working professionals.
Highlights of Ontario Province in Canada for PR
|
Province Name |
Ontario |
|
Average Cost of Living |
CAD 3,500 - CAD 4,500 |
|
Average Salary in the Province |
CAD 60,000 - CAD 70,000 |
|
Total Population of the Province |
15 million |
|
Current Immigrant Population Percentage |
29% |
|
PR Application Success Rate |
85% |
|
Ontario PNP Allocations 2026 |
17,872 |
|
Popular PNP Streams |
Human Capital Priorities Skilled Trades French-Speaking Skilled Worker |
Why is Ontario the Best Province in Canada for PR in 2026?
There are many reasons why Ontario is the best province in Canada for international students or expats. They are:
- Ontario is home to some of the best universities in the world, including the University of Toronto, McMaster University, and Queen's University known for their high-quality education and research opportunities, which makes them attractive to international students.
- It offers a variety of internship and co-op programs that can help students gain Canadian work experience. These programs are often tailored to the needs of international students, making it easier for them to find a good fit.
- Ontario is a welcoming and diverse province, which is home to people from all over the world. This diversity makes it an ideal place to live and study, as you will be able to meet people from all walks of life.
Pros and Cons of Ontario Province
There are many reasons why people may choose to immigrate to Ontario, Canada. The province is home to the country’s capital city, Ottawa, as well as the economic hub of Toronto. It is also one of the most populous provinces in the country. Ontario has a lot to offer newcomers, but there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.
Understanding these advantages and disadvantages will help in assessing which province in Canada is best for PR.
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Pros |
Cons |
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2. British Columbia
There are many reasons why British Columbia is the best province for PR in Canada for international students. They are:
- BC is home to some of the best universities in the country, including the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University.
- The province has a strong economy and is host to several major corporations. Finally, BC is a beautiful place to live, with its stunning natural scenery and vibrant cities.
Highlights of British Columbia Province in Canada for PR
|
Province Name |
British Columbia |
|
Average Cost of Living |
CAD 3,200 - CAD 4,200 |
|
Average Salary in the Province |
CAD 55,000 - CAD 65,000 |
|
Total Population of the Province |
5.5 million |
|
Current Immigrant Population Percentage |
28% |
|
PR Application Success Rate |
83% |
|
British Columbia PNP Allocations 2026 |
6,654 |
|
Popular PNP Streams |
Skills Immigration Express Entry BC Entrepreneur Immigration |
Pros and Cons of British Columbia Province
British Columbia is one of the most popular provinces for international students seeking to obtain permanent residency in Canada. However, you must weigh the advantages and the disadvantages of living in this province, before arriving at any decision.
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Pros |
Cons |
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3. Alberta
There are many reasons why Alberta PNP is a great choice for international students looking to obtain PR status in Canada. They are:
- Alberta is home to some of the best universities in the country, including the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary. These schools are known for their excellent programs and research opportunities, making them a top choice for students from all over the world.
- In addition to its high-quality universities, Alberta also offers a lower cost of living than many other Canadian provinces. This is especially true compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver, which can be quite expensive.
- Additionally, Alberta boasts a strong job market, making it easier for international students to find work after graduation.
Highlights of Alberta Province in Canada for PR
|
Province Name |
Alberta |
|
Average Cost of Living |
CAD 3,000 - CAD 4,000 |
|
Average Salary in the Province |
CAD 50,000 - CAD 60,000 |
|
Total Population of the Province |
4.7 million |
|
Current Immigrant Population Percentage |
24% |
|
PR Application Success Rate |
82% |
|
Alberta PNP Allocations 2026 |
8,266 |
|
Popular PNP Streams |
Alberta Opportunity Stream Alberta Express Entry |
Pros and Cons of Alberta Province
Alberta, along with being one of the easiest place to get PR in Canada also offers varied pros and cons of living in the province. These include:
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Pros |
Cons |
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4. Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan is a great choice for the easiest place to get PR in Canada for international students. The province offers several programs and benefits that make it an attractive option for those looking to live and work in the country.
Highlights of Saskatchewan Province in Canada for PR
|
Province Name |
Saskatchewan |
|
Average Cost of Living |
CAD 2,300 - CAD 3,300 |
|
Average Salary in the Province |
CAD 50,000 - CAD 55,000 |
|
Total Population of the Province |
1.2 million |
|
Current Immigrant Population Percentage |
18% |
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PR Application Success Rate |
79% |
|
Saskatchewan PNP Allocations 2026 |
6,033 |
|
Popular PNP Streams |
International Skilled Worker Saskatchewan Experience Stream |
Why is Saskatchewan the Best Province to Live in Canada in 2026?
Let us have a look at the reasons for choosing Saskatchewan as one of the best province to live in Canada in 2026!
- One of the biggest advantages of Saskatchewan is its low cost of living. The province has a lower cost of living than most other Canadian provinces, making it an affordable place to live and study.
- The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) is a popular program for international students looking to obtain permanent residency in Canada. The program allows students to obtain a nomination from the province, which significantly speeds up the process of obtaining permanent residency.
- Additionally, the SINP offers several benefits, such as priority processing and exemption from the Canadian Experience Class requirements.
- Saskatchewan is the best city in Canada for students seeking permanent residency in Canada. The province offers several programs and benefits that make it an attractive option for those looking to live and work in the country.
Pros and Cons of Saskatchewan Province
Saskatchewan is one of the provinces in Canada that offers a lot of opportunities for international students. Let’s check out the pros and cons of this province.
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Pros |
Cons |
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5. Manitoba
Manitoba is one of the best provinces in Canada for PR for international students. It has a lot to offer in terms of education, culture, and opportunities. The province is home to many top universities, such as the University of Manitoba and the University of Winnipeg.
Manitoba also has a vibrant cultural scene, with many festivals and events happening throughout the year. There are also plenty of job opportunities available in Manitoba, making Manitoba PNP a great option for those looking to start their career after graduation.
Highlights of Manitoba Province in Canada for PR
|
Province Name |
Manitoba |
|
Average Cost of Living |
CAD 2,500 - CAD 3,500 |
|
Average Salary in the Province |
CAD 45,000 - CAD 55,000 |
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Total Population of the Province |
1.4 million |
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Current Immigrant Population Percentage |
20% |
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PR Application Success Rate |
80% |
|
Manitoba PNP Allocations 2026 |
7,904 |
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Popular PNP Streams |
Skilled Workers in Manitoba Skilled Workers Overseas International Education Stream |
Pros and Cons of Manitoba Province
Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of living in Manitoba.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Also Read: Canada PR Pathways for Families With Children in 2026
6. Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is one of the Maritime Provinces located on the east coast of Canada. Beside being blessed with natural beauty, this province offers several programs and incentives for international students looking to obtain Canadian permanent residency. The province has been working hard to attract and retain international talent in recent years.
The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is one of the most popular programs for international students wanting to obtain PR in Canada. The NSNP selection criteria are based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language ability, and connection to the province.
Another popular program for international students is the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP). This program allows skilled workers and their families to immigrate to Nova Scotia through one of three streams: Express Entry, High-Skilled Workers, or Low-Skilled Workers.
Highlights of Nova Scotia Province in Canada for PR
|
Province Name |
Nova Scotia |
|
Average Cost of Living |
CAD 2,500 - CAD 3,500 |
|
Average Salary in the Province |
CAD 45,000 - CAD 50,000 |
|
Total Population of the Province |
1 million |
|
Current Immigrant Population Percentage |
13% |
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PR Application Success Rate |
78% |
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Nova Scotia PNP Allocations 2026 |
5,236 |
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Popular PNP Streams |
Nova Scotia Demand Nova Scotia Experience International Graduate Entrepreneur |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Nova Scotia
Pros and Cons of Nova Scotia Province
Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of choosing Nova Scotia as your immigration destination.
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Pros |
Cons |
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7. New Brunswick
New Brunswick is one of the best province to live in Canada and New Brunswick PNP has several programs and initiatives in place to attract and retain skilled immigrants, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to start a new life in Canada. In addition to offering a lower cost of living and high quality of life.
New Brunswick also provides opportunities for work and study, making it an attractive option for students looking to obtain their Canadian permanent residency.
Highlights of New Brunswick Province in Canada for PR
|
Province Name |
New Brunswick |
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Average Cost of Living |
CAD 2,300 - CAD 3,300 |
|
Average Salary in the Province |
CAD 43,000 - CAD 48,000 |
|
Total Population of the Province |
820,000 |
|
Current Immigrant Population Percentage |
11% |
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PR Application Success Rate |
77% |
|
New Brunswick PNP Allocations 2026 |
4,573 |
|
Popular PNP Streams |
Skilled Workers Stream Entrepreneurial Stream Post-Graduate Entrepreneurial Stream |
Pros and Cons of New Brunswick Province
New Brunswick province is located on the east coast of Canada and is a popular destination for international students looking to obtain their Canadian permanent residency. The province offers many benefits to those looking to immigrate, including affordable tuition rates, a low cost of living, and a welcoming community.
However, there are also some drawbacks to living in New Brunswick that potential immigrants should be aware of before deciding to move there. Here are some pros and cons of New Brunswick province to help you decide if it’s the right place for you:
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Pros |
Cons |
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8. Newfoundland and Labrador
This is one of the easy PR provinces in Canada that has a lot to offer in terms of education, with some of the best schools in the country located here. Along with the various immigration options under the Newfoundland and Labrador PNP, the province is home to many beautiful natural attractions, making it a great place to live and work.
Highlights of Newfoundland and Labrador Province in Canada for PR
|
Province Name |
Newfoundland and Labrador |
|
Average Cost of Living |
CAD 2,200 - CAD 3,200 |
|
Average Salary in the Province |
CAD 40,000 - CAD 45,000 |
|
Total Population of the Province |
520,000 |
|
Current Immigrant Population Percentage |
10% |
|
PR Application Success Rate |
75% |
|
Newfoundland and Labrador PNP Allocations 2026 |
2,537 |
|
Popular PNP Streams |
Skilled Worker Stream International Graduate Stream International Entrepreneur Stream |
Pros and Cons of Newfoundland and Labrador Province
Newfoundland is often considered one of the best provinces in Canada for international students. It offers a high quality of life, relatively low tuition fees, and a welcoming community. However, there are also some drawbacks to living in Newfoundland.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Also Read: Canada PR Success Stories & Case Studies: Reference for Aspirants in 2026
9. Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island (PEI), is popularly known for its picturesque landscapes and welcoming communities, has been becoming one of the top choice of students and immigrants seeking permanent residency in Canada.
This small yet vibrant is the easiest Canadian city for immigrants and offers many advantages like simple and straightforward Prince Edward Island PNP programs, low cost of living, high quality of life, along with being the ideal destination for newcomers to build their fulfilling life in Canada.
Highlights of Prince Edward Island Province in Canada for PR
|
Province Name |
Prince Edward Island |
|
Average Cost of Living |
CAD 2,200 - CAD 3,200 |
|
Average Salary in the Province |
CAD 38,000 - CAD 43,000 |
|
Total Population of the Province |
170,000 |
|
Current Immigrant Population Percentage |
8% |
|
PR Application Success Rate |
74% |
|
Prince Edward Island PNP Allocations 2026 |
1,724 |
|
Popular PNP Streams |
PEI Express Entry PEI Labour Impact Stream PEI Business Stream |
Pros and Cons of Prince Edward Island Province
Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada's smallest province, has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Here are some pros and cons of living in Prince Edward Island:
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Pros |
Cons |
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10. Quebec
Quebec, Canada's largest province by land area, is celebrated for its rich French culture, offering a unique blend of European charm and North American influence. With stunning natural landscapes that range from the Laurentian Mountains to the picturesque St. Lawrence River, it's the best city in Canada to live and work, specifically for outdoor enthusiasts.
Yet, the province's language politics and occasional separatist sentiments add a distinct layer of complexity to its identity, making it a region where cultural diversity and linguistic heritage intersect in fascinating ways. Quebec's historical and cultural significance continues to make it a captivating and multifaceted destination.
Highlights of Quebec Province in Canada for PR
|
Province Name |
Quebec |
|
Average Cost of Living |
CAD 3,000 - CAD 4,000 |
|
Average Salary in the Province |
CAD 50,000 - CAD 60,000 |
|
Total Population of the Province |
8.7 million |
|
Current Immigrant Population Percentage |
25% |
|
PR Application Success Rate |
81% |
|
Quebec Province PR Allocations 2026 |
45,000 |
|
Popular PNP Streams |
Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) Quebec Investor Program |
Pros and Cons of Quebec Province
The points below clearly state the pros and cons of Quebec, giving insights into the education and basic benefits of living in the province.
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Pros |
Cons |
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Also Read: Cost of Living in Montreal
Which Canadian Province Has the Best Quality of Life?
Some of the provinces are known for their high quality of life, offering a range of advantages and opportunities for residents. These provinces often boast strong economies, excellent healthcare and education systems, vibrant cultural scenes, and beautiful natural landscapes. Some of them are listed below.
- British Columbia: Known for its stunning natural beauty, mild climate, and strong economy.
- Ontario: Home to vibrant cities, diverse culture, and abundant job opportunities.
- ϳܱ:Offers a unique blend of culture, history, and outdoor activities in a beautiful setting.
- ٲ:Offers a great balance of work and play, with a strong economy, beautiful landscapes, and plenty of outdoor activities
Also Read: Education System in Canada
Which PNP is Right for Your Canada Immigration in 2026?
Each province in Canada has its own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows them to nominate candidates for the Express Entry program, the most common way to become a permanent resident of Canada.
However, it is important to remember that PNPs are different for each province. For example, while some provinces, like Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, have programs specifically for international students, other provinces, like Ontario and Saskatchewan, have programs open to all skilled workers. So, it is essential to research before choosing the best option for you.
Once you get nominated by a province, you will receive additional points in the Express Entry system. This nomination to a particular province will increase your chances of being invited to apply for Canada PR.
Here's a breakdown of some of the most popular PNPs to help you make a decision.
- The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is one of the most popular PNPs. If you want to live in Ontario, this is a great option. The OINP has a lot of different streams, so you can choose the one that best suits your skills and qualifications. There are also regular updates to the OINP, so it's worth keeping an eye on if you're interested in applying.
- The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) is another popular choice for international students. BC is a beautiful province with a lot to offer, and the BC PNP has a wide range of programs that you can apply for. If you have your heart set on living in BC, this could be the PNP for you.
How to Pick a Province for Canada PR After Graduation in 2026?
Once you have narrowed down your options i.e. which province is easy to get pr in Canada for international students, you should also explore specific factors such as job prospects, cost of living, and quality of life. If you have friends or family in Canada, they can also give you a rough idea of the living conditions of a province. Additionally, many online resources can help you compare the different provinces to see which province is best for Canada PR based on your needs.
While making a decision, you must remember that you can always change your mind later. Once you have obtained your Canadian permanent residency, you can freely move within the country. Are you still confused about which province is best for you? It is ok to wait until you arrive in Canada to make your final decision.
Also Read: How to Get PR in Canada After Study?
Ensure Your Timely Canada Immigration With ÿմ
Considering that each province in Canada offers distinct immigration benefits through PNP and Express Entry-linked pathways, selecting from the best provinces in Canada for PR depends on your individual career goals, CRS score, employment prospects, and your long-term settlement aspirations. Ensuring a timely and well-planned application process greatly increases your PR success rates in 2026 as Canada continues to prioritise skilled immigrants to address, the country's labour shortages.
Seeking professional advice, is highly suggestive in order to determine the appropriate problems and pathway for your profile. You can consider reaching out to ÿմ for assistance with choosing the best province, eligibility verification, visa process, and more to help you confidently navigate the Canada PR process.
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