Canada has ranked as one of the top ten places to live in the world since 1994 according to the United Nations (UN) and the Economist Intelligence Unit. In the UN survey Canada earned particularly high marks for its access to education, high life expectancy (due to universal health care system); and low crime and violence rates. In addition, Canada's largest cities-Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal-have been recognized as world class cities in which to live and work, for their cleanliness and safety and for their cultural activities and attractive lifestyles.

Canada is considered to be a relatively peaceful, safe and orderly country. Its violent crime rate decreased for ten consecutive years from 1993 to 2003. Unlike its US neighbours to the south, firearms are strictly controlled and generally are not permitted. International students who come to Canada should follow the same common sense safety precautions as they would anywhere in the world. Students can contact any Can-Asia Centre to learn more about personal safety, or attend a safety orientation session at their school upon their arrival in Canada.

Canada is a stimulating environment in which to do business and to learn, thanks to the contributions of many bright and talented scientists, researchers and entrepreneurs. The country is an international leader in computer and information technologies and has a reputation for excellence in such sectors as telecommunications, transportation and engineering; and specifically, aerospace, urban transport, microelectronics, medical devices, advanced software, hydroelectric and nuclear power, lasers and opto-electronics, biotechnology, food and beverage processing, geomatics; and ocean and environmental industries.

Students are allowed to work part time 20 hours per week on campus/ off campus and full time during holidays while studying the course. In Canada, minimum wages varies in different provinces. Under the Constitution of Canada, the responsibility for enacting and enforcing labour law including minimum wages in Canada rests with the ten provinces. Minimum wages varies between 8-10.25 cd$ per hour depending upon the province.

A Post-Graduation Work Permit cannot be valid longer than the length of time you studied in Canada. For example, students graduating from a four-year degree program might be eligible for a three-year year work permit. Students graduating from an eight-month certificate program would only be eligible for a work permit of eight months.