Calgary is one of Canada’s largest cities. It is a dry place on the western edge of Canada’s wide prairie. From many places in the city, you can see the Rocky Mountains rising in the west.

Calgary spreads out over several square kilometres of land. Two rivers run through it, and there are lots of parks and natural areas.

In many ways Calgary is a new city. The population has more than doubled in the last 50 years, primarily as a result of immigration. Many people from other countries and other parts of Canada now call Calgary home.

Oil & gas is the main industry, although there are many other kinds of businesses in the city, many with international connections. Calgarians value entrepreneurship. Social and business relationships are fluid, not fixed.

Calgary is often described as a very big small town. It is a safe, friendly place – a good place to raise a family. People like to volunteer for special events, and to make newcomers welcome.

Here are some sites that will help you learn more about Calgary.


 Centre for Newcomers

 Calgary for Newcomers

 Living in Calgary

 Canadian Relocation System

 Calgary Public Library

 Calgary Economic Development

 Immigrant Sector Council of Calgary

 Immigrants in Calgary - Fact Sheet

 Calgary Board of Education

 City of Calgary

 Calgary International Airport

 Calgary Transit

 Weather Office


Coming to Canada:

Immigrants to Canada come from all parts of the world, and make up approximately 16% of the country’s population.

If you would like to immigrate to Canada, you must apply for permanent resident status while outside the country. Permanent residents are able to live, study and work anywhere in Canada but are not eligible to vote. They must pay taxes and are subject to Canadian laws.

Before you apply for permanent resident status, you must decide where in Canada you would like to live – it is very big country! You must also decide what type of permanent resident status best describes or fits you or your family.

The Province of Alberta, where the City of Calgary is located, has a special procedure in place to support the immigration of skilled workers.

Visit the Canadian embassy, consulate or visa office in your area before you leave. Find out everything you might need to do to become a permanent resident, or, if you are eligible to come to Canada as a refugee.