SASKATCHEWAN

1. Economy

• The province currently provides one-third of the worlds potash and a fifth of the worlds uranium.
• Saskatchewan supplies more than a third of the worlds total exported durum wheat and is the worlds top exporter of lentils and dry peas.
• In addition to being a world leader in agriculture, Saskatchewan is the fifth-largest oil producer in North America.
• Saskatchewan manufacturers are producing a wide range of goods that are exported to markets across Canada and around the world.

2. Great Quality of Life

Saskatchewan has a vibrant art and culture scene, scenic provincial parks and plenty of sports and recreation opportunities. Known as the birthplace of Medicare, its residents enjoy free medical care and excellent health care services.

Saskatchewan’s education system offers affordable opportunities at every level. All graduates from an approved program at an eligible institution in 2006 or later, and who live in Saskatchewan are eligible to apply for the province’s Graduate Retention Program. The program refunds up to $20,000 of tuition fees paid by eligible graduates (including international graduates) who live in Saskatchewan and who file a Saskatchewan income tax return.

3. Cost of Living

Saskatchewan is a great place to live and raise a family and to locate or invest in a business:

• Housing costs are lower in Saskatchewan than in most major cities in Canada, and owning a home is affordable and achievable for most people.
• Unlike other Canadian provinces, there are no personal premiums or personal charges for basic and needed health services.
  • It’s important to apply for a health card as soon as you arrive.
• The provincial sales tax of 6 per cent is the lowest of any province that charges a sales tax.
• It costs less to get to and from work because the maximum commute time within major cities is about 20 minutes.

Other benefits of living in Saskatchewan:

• There is no tuition fee for pre-kindergarten to grade 12 education in public schools for Saskatchewan residents.
• Graduates of approved post-secondary programs are eligible for up to $20,000 in tuition rebates through the Graduate Retention Program.

4. Community Life

Saskatchewan is home to people of many faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs. Newcomers to the province have an opportunity to maintain their own cultural traditions, as well as participate in new ones.

Faith and Religion

People of many faiths and religious beliefs live in Saskatchewan, including Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Baha’is and Christians. To find a particular church or a religious group, look in the Yellow Pages of your telephone book under “Churches” or online at mysask.com.

Things to Do

There are lots of cultural opportunities, including winter festivals, symphony concerts and historical celebrations.

You’ll find year-round recreation in Saskatchewan. The many lakes in the province are perfect for canoeing, boating, swimming and ice-fishing. In the winter, there are many winter activities, including hills and slopes for skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing. Provincial parks in many areas allow camping and picnics. Many communities have parks, play areas and outdoor wading pools for children.