Language in British Columbia

Canada has two official languages: English and French. People who immigrate to B.C. do not need to understand French. However, you should be able to speak, read and write in English if you plan to live, work or study in British Columbia.

English is the main language of communication in British Columbia. Strong English skills can improve your chances of finding a good job and becoming financially established in B.C. You also will find it easier to access services and perform day-to-day tasks like banking and shopping if you can understand English.

Language Diversity

English is spoken by 83 per cent of British Columbians, but B.C. is home to many other languages as well. Chinese, Panjabi (Punjabi), Korean, Tagalog (Pilipino, Filipino) and Persian (Farsi) are the most common languages spoken in B.C. after English.

Aboriginal languages also are spoken in B.C. There are 34 distinct Aboriginal languages still spoken by First Nations’ people across the province. Two-thirds of the Aboriginal languages spoken in Canada are here in B.C. These distinct languages are part of 11 different language families. First Nations and the provincial government are making a great effort to protect and revitalize Aboriginal languages.