Moving to Canada

Occupying a vast northern corner of the Earth, Canada is a simply massive country replete with natural beauty, from glistening lakes and lush forests to soaring mountains and icy tundras. It is the second-largest country in the world and has the world’s longest coastline, spanning three oceans.

Most newcomers find Canada provides a drastically improved quality of life, with excellent infrastructure, great service delivery, a safe environment, and friendly people – all set against a backdrop of rugged and spectacular scenery.

Living in Canada as an expat

Living in Canada as an expat offers varied experiences depending on where you settle. Toronto offers a fast-paced lifestyle with a lively arts scene, cultural festivals, and many job opportunities, while Vancouver is known for its stunning natural scenery and emphasis on outdoor activities. If you prefer a slower pace of life, quieter Canadian towns provide stronger community ties and more affordable living, although job opportunities and amenities may be more limited.

To make the most of living in Canada, knowing the language is essential. Proficiency in English or French opens doors for employment and helps you engage with your local community. Settlement services are also incredibly useful – many organisations offer resources that can help you find a job, understand Canadian culture, and make valuable connections. Canada is a place that values community, and building a strong network can lead to job opportunities and lasting friendships.

Moving to and Living in Toronto
Moving to and Living in Vancouver
Moving to and Living in Calgary

Working in Canada

Working in Canada offers exciting opportunities, especially with its variety of visa options. Canada’s provinces also vary widely in job opportunities. Ontario and British Columbia have thriving sectors in technology, healthcare, and finance, while Alberta and Saskatchewan benefit from economies driven by natural resources like oil and agriculture.

When negotiating your salary, pay careful attention. While the cost of living in Canada is reasonable compared to many of the Asian superpowers and European metros, tax rates are high. But these deductions also give you access to some fantastic public services, including universal health insurance that grants near-comprehensive healthcare coverage and free education at reputable public schools.

Working in Canada
Doing Business in Canada

Canadian culture

Canadian culture is rich and diverse, influenced by communities from all around the world. You’ll find a wide variety of cuisines, from Asian fusion to classic French dishes, and events like Diwali, Chinese New Year, and Pride Month are celebrated nationwide. Canadians value inclusivity and respect, making it easy to feel welcomed and find your place here. Canadians are polite and welcoming to a fault, using phrases like ‘please’, ‘thank you’, and ‘sorry’ liberally. 

Outdoor activities are a big part of Canadian life, with many locals enjoying hiking, skiing, and camping. Participating in these pastimes is a great way to experience the beauty of Canada’s landscapes and connect with the community.

Local Culture in Canada
Diversity and Inclusion in Canada

Accommodation in Canada

Finding the perfect place to live is key to feeling settled in Canada. Options range from high-rise apartments in major urban centres to houses in quieter suburban areas. Rent is relatively high in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Cities like Montreal tend to be more budget-friendly in comparison, and smaller cities and towns provide even more affordable options, ideal if you prefer a slower pace and more room.

Leasing is common, and landlords typically require a security deposit upfront. Ensure you understand all the terms, such as utilities, maintenance, and specific property rules. In smaller towns, landlords may be more open to negotiation because of lower competition.

Accommodation and Utilities in Canada

Cost of living in Canada

The cost of living in Canada varies widely by province, and knowing what to expect can help you plan effectively. British Columbia is generally the most expensive province, with Vancouver topping the charts for housing and living expenses. Ontario, particularly Toronto, follows close behind with high costs driven by housing and lifestyle. In contrast, Quebec offers more affordable living, especially in cities like Montreal, where rents and utilities are noticeably lower than in western provinces. Alberta falls somewhere in the middle, with moderate costs and relatively cheaper groceries and utilities.

Utilities, transport, and grocery costs in Canada can be comparable to other Western countries. Utility bills are similar to those in many European cities. Public transport costs are reasonable, with affordable monthly passes in major urban areas. Groceries might be pricier than in the US, but buying in bulk or visiting discount shops can make a significant difference.

Cost of Living in Canada
Banking, Money and Taxes in Canada

Getting around Canada

Given its enormous size, getting around Canada can be quite an adventure. In major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, public transport is well-developed and efficient, with options including buses, trains, and subways.

If you’re in a more rural area, a car will likely be essential, as public transport is limited. Petrol can be expensive, especially in remote regions, so factor this into your living costs. Canada’s road network is extensive, and driving is generally safe, although you’ll need to prepare for harsh winter conditions in many areas.

Winter can be challenging for transport, with snow and ice often causing delays. Major cities are well-equipped to handle these conditions, with snow clearance teams and infrastructure designed to cope with extreme weather. Nevertheless, it pays to dress warmly, allow extra time for your journey, and stay informed about any service disruptions, particularly during heavy snowfalls.

Transport and Driving in Canada

Living in Canada with children

Canada is a wonderful place to raise a family. The country is known for its family-friendly policies and focus on work-life balance. New residents with children may also benefit from child-focused government programmes. The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) provides monthly payments to help with the cost of raising children, which can be a huge help as you settle in. Some provinces, such as Quebec, offer subsidised childcare, making it more affordable for working parents.

When it comes to family outings, there are countless options to keep everyone entertained, from nature trails and beach days in the summer to skiing and ice skating in winter. Many cities host child-friendly events throughout the year, such as festivals, park activities, and cultural fairs, making it easy to plan fun weekends with the kids.

Finding a school in Canada

Public education is generally excellent and is free for permanent residents and work visa holders. You can choose from public, private, or international schools, depending on your preferences and your child’s needs. Public schools are largely well-funded, and there are many reputable institutions to select from, especially in the larger cities.

Education and Schools in Canada

Healthcare in Canada

Healthcare in Canada is largely publicly funded, and the universal healthcare system means you won’t have to worry about most medical expenses. In some cases, there may be a waiting period of up to three months after registration as a resident before your coverage begins. It is wise to arrange private health insurance to cover any unexpected costs during this time.

Healthcare services can differ from province to province. Some regions might cover services such as dental care or physiotherapy more comprehensively than others. In provinces like Alberta, you may find more extensive coverage than others. Wait times for specialists can also vary depending on the region, with higher demand in populous provinces sometimes leading to longer waits.

Healthcare in Canada

Climate in Canada

The climate in Canada is as varied as its regions. Winters can be fierce, especially in interior regions like Calgary or Edmonton. Snow typically covers the ground for nearly six months a year. Coastal and southern regions have milder winters; however, temperatures can still drop significantly. Canadian buildings are well-equipped for freezing temperatures, with many cities featuring heated underground pathways for comfortable travel.

Summers can be pleasantly warm, especially in southern regions. Summer is perfect for outdoor adventures, whether it’s hiking in national parks, camping under the stars, or enjoying Canada’s lakes. Regardless of the season, dress in layers and prepare for changing weather conditions.

Climate and Weather Charts in Canada

All in all, Canada is a diverse, safe, and welcoming country with world-class healthcare, excellent education, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking career opportunities, a safe place for your family, or a change of scenery, Canada offers it all. With some planning and research, you can settle in comfortably and fully enjoy life in Canada.

Fast facts

Population: 39.7 million

Capital city: Ottawa

Neighbouring countries: Canada shares a border with the United States of America to the south, as well as the US state of Alaska to the northwest.

Geography: The land is a vast wilderness populated by large modern cities, often against the rustic backdrop of beautiful natural surroundings. It boasts vast mountain ranges and prairies, massive lakes, lush forests and rugged coastlines. 

Political system: Federal parliamentary constitutional democracy

Major religions: Christianity

Main languages: English and French

Money: The Canadian Dollar (CAD), divided into 100 cents.

Tipping: 5 to 20 percent depending on the type of service.

Time: There are six time zones in Canada, ranging from GMT-8 in the west to GMT-3.5 in the east, or GMT-7 and GMT-2.5 from November to March.

Electricity: 110V, 60Hz. Standard plugs are flat two-pins, or plugs with a third round grounding pin.

Internet domain: .ca

International dialling code: +1

Emergency contacts: 911

Transport and driving: Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road. The rail system connects most major cities and smaller communities while buses are modern, safe and clean. Cycling is encouraged, while metered taxis are regulated.