Montréal: Home to international organizations
With nearly 70 international organizations, including six UN offices, Montréal ranks 3rd in the Americas for the number of IOs. As a world civil aviation capital and sustainable development hub, Montréal is home to many IOs in both sectors. Others work in various areas, including life sciences and health, education, international development, the Francophonie and design.
Locating in Montréal is a wise choice
Montréal has a unique ecosystem and major advantages for international organizations choosing to locate here. Is your organization looking to relocate or wanting to open an office in North America? Come join a dynamic community of international organizations already in Montréal.
Comprehensive and accessible support program
Nearly half the international organizations based in Montréal have received support from Montréal International to set up here. Once in the city, most IOs are supported in various ways by our dedicated team.
- Strategic and logistical advice
- Help with work permits for non-Canadian staff
- Access to an institutional, academic, and business network
- Networking events and training workshops
- Potential financial support for expansion or establishment
What’s more, Québec is the only jurisdiction in North America to have a dedicated Hospitality Policy for International Non-governmental Organizations. This policy aims to provide the best possible hosting conditions, along with additional benefits (courtesy privileges, tax exemptions, etc.), subject to the conclusion of a recognition agreement with the Government of Québec.
A welcoming city open to the world
International hub
- Crossroads of Europe and North America
- North America’s top destination for international conferences
- Direct flights to over 150 destinations
- Strategic location: 90 minutes from New York City and under 2 hours from Washington, D.C., by plane; less than an hour away from the U.S. border
An affordable host city
- A 33% cost advantage over comparable international cities worldwide (includes labour, property and utility costs)
- A lower cost of living than most major cities in North America, Western Europe, China, and Japan
A polyglot and highly educated population
- 55% of the population is bilingual, and 20% speak three or more languages
- Canada’s university capital: home to 15 universities and over 200,000 students, including more than 40,000 international students
Exceptional quality of life
- 3rd best city for quality of life in North America (Mercer, 2024)
- Safest city among 20 of the largest metropolitan areas in Canada and the U.S.
- One of the best public transit systems in North America
The International Organization mandate is supported financially by
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