Iqaluit and Rankin Inlet: where services are run
Nunavut's capital is Iqaluit, according to the Discover Canada guide, and it is home to Qikiqtani General Hospital. The Health Insurance Programs office that processes health card applications, however, is in Rankin Inlet. IRCC's page on Nunavut says its people live in 25 communities, and the territorial government notes that Inuit make up the vast majority of the population.
Arabic speakers are few: in the 2021 Census, about 35 people reported Arabic as their mother tongue, and about 65 said they could conduct a conversation in it, according to Statistics Canada. Check the Nunavut directory for what is available.
Minimum wage in Nunavut
Nunavut's minimum wage has been $20.17 an hour since 1 September 2026, the highest in Canada, according to a Government of Nunavut announcement. It is adjusted each year based on the consumer price index for Iqaluit and the territory's average hourly wage. A higher figure does not mean higher purchasing power, so work out your take-home pay in the salary and tax calculator and then compare it with the actual cost of living.
Cost of living and medical travel
All of Nunavut 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 Nutrition North Canada program subsidizes food prices in isolated northern communities.
If a doctor or nurse refers you for treatment outside your community, you may be entitled to medical travel benefits: the plan pays for the airfare after a $250 return-trip co-payment. For help settling in, use the Find free newcomer services near you tool, organize your steps with the arrival plan, and open Credentials early if your occupation is regulated.
Frequently asked questions about Nunavut
Does Nunavut have a territorial nominee program?
No. The territorial government says there is currently no Nunavut-specific immigration stream, and refers people to federal immigration programs. Once you have permanent residence, you can move to Nunavut.
When do I have to exchange my driver's licence?
New residents must apply for a Nunavut licence within 30 days of moving. If your licence expired more than 12 months ago, you will have to take a test.
How do I get a driver's licence for the first time?
You start with a Class 7 learner's licence from age 15 after a written test and a vision test, then move to Class 5 from age 16 after a road test, according to the Nunavut driver's manual.
Does the health plan cover prescription drugs and dental care?
It does not cover prescription drugs you buy at a pharmacy, or dental services other than specific procedures related to jaw injury or disease. Ask your employer about supplementary health insurance before you sign a contract.
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.