How much English do you need to work in IT in Quebec?

This article looks at how much English you need to work in information technology in Quebec, and more specifically in Quebec City and Montreal. It may be useful to anyone hoping to work in IT here, whether a future immigrant or a student in a technology field.

Working in computing in Quebec without a foundation in English is possible, but you may struggle to find a job, especially in the private sector. In the Quebec government, where almost everything happens in French, you can work with no English background at all; however, you may run into difficulty if your work requires technical research, since much of the information online is in English.

In Quebec City

In Quebec City, where the population is overwhelmingly French-speaking, you can work with little or no English — for example in the Quebec government, or as a consultant assigned to it. Still, an insufficient level of English could close doors, particularly in the private sector. Private companies more often deal with other provinces or countries, so at least an intermediate, even advanced, level may be necessary.

In Montreal

In Montreal, where the English-speaking population is much larger than in Quebec City, a weak level of English can seriously hinder your career. There are far fewer government offices than in Quebec City, so more of the opportunities are in the private sector — and English is often required. English plays a much more prominent role there, to the point that an insufficient level can complicate both the job search and advancement within a company.

In short, a weak level of English won’t be a problem for working in the Quebec government, where almost everything happens in French. On the other hand, an intermediate or advanced level will help you a great deal in the private sector in Quebec City, and an advanced level is practically necessary in Montreal.