Main cities and Arabic speakers in New Brunswick
Unlike some other provinces, New Brunswick is not centred on a single city. Its population is spread across three cities of similar size: Moncton in the east, Saint John on the south coast and Fredericton, the provincial capital. It is also Canada's only officially bilingual province, and French is widely spoken in Moncton and the north, which is an advantage for newcomers who speak French, including many from North Africa and Lebanon.
According to 2021 Census data from Statistics Canada, about 6,090 people in New Brunswick reported being able to conduct a conversation in Arabic, including about 2,115 in the Moncton census metropolitan area, about 1,820 in the Fredericton area and about 1,345 in the Saint John area. The community is small and spread across all three cities. For organizations and services, see the New Brunswick directory.
Minimum wage in New Brunswick
New Brunswick's minimum wage has been $15.90 an hour since 1 April 2026, up from $15.65, according to a Government of New Brunswick announcement. It is adjusted in line with the province's Consumer Price Index. This figure is a legal floor, not an average wage, so calculate your take-home pay after tax in the salary and tax calculator before accepting any offer.
Settlement services and immigration programs
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) funds free services for eligible newcomers, including permanent residents: English or French language classes, job search help and guidance with your first paperwork. Find organizations near you with the official Find free newcomer services near you tool, where you can filter results by the language of service.
ImmigrationNB runs the provincial nominee program, the NBPNP, in cooperation with IRCC, and the province also takes part in the federal Atlantic Immigration Program. To organize your first weeks, use the arrival plan, and if your occupation is regulated, start on Credentials before you travel.
Climate: snowy winters, milder coast
New Brunswick winters are cold and snowy, and the cold is harsher inland and in the north than on the south coast along the Bay of Fundy. Weather in the Atlantic provinces is generally changeable, and a car is a necessity for many families outside city centres. Read the driving guide early, because new drivers spend at least two years on a graduated licence.
Frequently asked questions about New Brunswick
Will I get Medicare as soon as I arrive from outside Canada?
You may be eligible for coverage from your first day if you meet the eligibility requirements and your residence in the province is considered permanent. Applications are not accepted before you have actually moved, and each file is assessed individually, so arrange private insurance for the first period.
What are the licence stages for a new driver?
You start with a Class 7 Level 1 licence after the knowledge test and wait 12 months before the road test, or eight months if you complete an approved driver training course. After passing the road test you move to Level 2, and after 24 months across both levels you receive a Class 5 licence.
Do I need French to live in New Brunswick?
It is not a requirement for living there, as the province is officially bilingual. But speaking French widens your job opportunities, especially in Moncton and the north, and you can also request settlement services in French.
Which immigration programs are available in the province?
The provincial program is the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP), alongside the federal Atlantic Immigration Program. Check open streams and draw rounds on the official website before you apply.
This page is an independent information guide. It does not provide immigration or legal advice and does not determine your eligibility for any program or coverage. The final decision always rests with the official authority linked on each card above, so check with them before taking any step that involves costs.