Communities and Arabic speakers in the Northwest Territories
The territory's capital is Yellowknife, which the Discover Canada guide calls the "diamond capital of North America". IRCC's page on the territory says its population is spread across 33 communities; besides Yellowknife, Hay River and Inuvik are among the towns with driver licensing offices.
In the 2021 Census, about 145 people in the territory reported Arabic as their mother tongue, and about 310 said they could conduct a conversation in it, according to Statistics Canada. Check the Northwest Territories directory for what is available.
Minimum wage in the Northwest Territories
The territory's minimum wage rose from $16.95 to $17.20 an hour on 1 September 2026, according to a Government of the Northwest Territories announcement. The increase is calculated from the change in the consumer price index and the average hourly wage for 2025. Work out your take-home pay in the salary and tax calculator before comparing any job offer with housing costs.
Cost of living in the North: what to budget for before you move
The whole territory is in the Canada Revenue Agency's "prescribed northern zone", and people who have lived there for at least six consecutive months may be entitled to the Northern Residents Deductions. The federal government also subsidizes food prices in isolated northern communities through Nutrition North Canada, which on its own tells you that a grocery budget in remote communities is different from one in the South.
Watch out for one health cost that surprises newcomers: the health plan covers doctor and hospital services when you travel within Canada, but it does not cover ground ambulance or medical air evacuation, and the official page recommends travel insurance. For help settling in, use the Find free newcomer services near you tool, and organize your steps with the arrival plan.
Frequently asked questions about the Northwest Territories
When does my health coverage start if I move from Ontario, for example?
On the first day of the third month after the month you arrive: someone who arrives on 4 July becomes eligible on 1 October. During the wait, you use your previous province's card.
How long does it take to get a full licence?
At least one year with a Class 7 learner's licence, then 12 months without a suspension on a Class 5P licence. The upgrade to Class 5 is not automatic: you have to visit a licensing office.
Can I apply to the nominee program without a job offer?
Not in the Employer-Driven Stream, which requires a job offer from an employer in the territory who applies on your behalf. Its categories are entry-level and semi-skilled occupations, skilled workers, and the territory's own Express Entry.
This page is an independent information guide. It does not provide immigration, legal or tax advice and does not determine your eligibility for any program, coverage or deduction. 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.