Canada is a popular choice for Brits looking for a new adventure. It offers stunning landscapes, friendly people, and a high quality of life. If you are thinking about moving to Canada from the UK, this guide will help you understand the process.
Why Move to Canada?
Many UK residents choose Canada for its high living standards, strong economy, and excellent healthcare. The country is known for its welcoming culture, outdoor lifestyle, and diverse cities. Some of the key benefits include great job opportunities in industries like technology, healthcare, and finance. Canada also boasts breathtaking natural scenery, ranging from mountains to lakes, making it an outdoor lover’s paradise. The healthcare system is universal, providing access to medical services for residents. Families benefit from high-quality education, and communities are known for their welcoming and inclusive nature.
How to Move to Canada from the UK
Moving to Canada requires planning. You will need to apply for the right visa, find a place to live, and organise your finances. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you make the move.
1. Choose the Right Visa
There are several visa options available for UK citizens looking to move to Canada. The most common route for skilled workers is Express Entry, a points-based immigration system. Applicants are assessed based on age, education, work experience, and language skills. The higher your score, the better your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Another option is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), where individual provinces select applicants based on local labour market needs. If a province nominates you, it increases your chances of obtaining permanent residency. This program is ideal for those with skills in demand in a specific region.
If you have close family members in Canada who are citizens or permanent residents, you may be eligible for Family Sponsorship. This allows relatives to support your application for permanent residency, provided they meet the necessary financial requirements.
For young people aged 18-35, the Working Holiday Visa is a great option. This visa allows UK citizens to live and work in Canada for up to two years, offering a fantastic way to experience the country before deciding on permanent residency.
If you plan to study in Canada, a Study Permit is required. This allows international students to attend Canadian universities and colleges. Many students who graduate from Canadian institutions can later apply for permanent residency through programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Express Entry.
For more information on all different visas, visit the Government of Canada website.
2. Decide Where to Live
Canada is a huge country with different climates and job markets. Here are some popular cities for UK expats:
Toronto
As Canada’s largest city and financial hub, Toronto offers diverse job opportunities and a multicultural environment. The city has cold winters but excellent public transport and entertainment options.
Vancouver
Known for its mild climate and outdoor lifestyle, Vancouver is ideal for those who love nature. It has a high cost of living but strong job markets in tech and film.
Calgary
This city is a hub for jobs in oil, gas, and finance. It is more affordable than Toronto and Vancouver and is located close to the Rocky Mountains, making it great for outdoor activities.
Montreal
A French-speaking city with a European feel, Montreal has a lower cost of living compared to other big cities. It is a great choice for those in creative industries and technology.
Ottawa
As Canada’s capital, Ottawa provides numerous government job opportunities. It is a safe, clean, and family-friendly city with cold winters but a high quality of life.
3. Find a Job
If you are moving under a work visa, securing a job is essential. Industries in high demand include IT, engineering, healthcare, finance, and skilled trades. Websites such as Indeed.ca, Workopolis, and the Government of Canada Job Bank are excellent resources for job seekers. Networking on LinkedIn and connecting with local recruiters can also boost your chances of employment.
4. Education in Canada
If you are moving to Canada from the UK with children, this section will be especially important for you. Canada has a well-regarded education system, with publicly funded primary and secondary schools available to residents. Schooling typically runs from ages 5 to 18 and follows a curriculum set by each province. Many public schools offer French immersion programs for bilingual education.
For higher education, Canada is home to top universities like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia. Tuition fees vary, with international students paying higher rates, but scholarships and financial aid options are available.
Vocational training and college programs provide practical skills for the job market, especially in fields like healthcare, engineering, and business.
Parents should research local school boards and application processes, as some schools have catchment areas or waiting lists. Private schooling and homeschooling are also available.
5. Arrange Your Finances
Before moving, it is important to sort out your finances. The cost of living varies across cities, with Toronto and Vancouver being more expensive than smaller cities. Opening a Canadian bank account before arrival can simplify financial transactions. Currency exchange services help transfer funds from GBP to CAD at favourable rates. Understanding Canada’s tax system is crucial as income tax rates differ by province. Additionally, checking healthcare coverage is important, as some provinces require private health insurance before public coverage kicks in.
6. Find a Place to Live
Housing in Canada varies by location. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver have high rental prices, while smaller cities are more affordable. Rental listings can be found on websites such as Realtor.ca, Rentals.ca, Craigslist, and Kijiji. Most landlords require a deposit, references, and proof of income before renting a home.
7. Get Healthcare Coverage
Canada offers public healthcare, but new arrivals may experience a waiting period before coverage starts. In the meantime, private health insurance is recommended. Each province has its own healthcare system, and registering for a health card is essential for accessing free medical services.
8. Logistics for Moving to Canada from the UK
Choosing the right removals company is essential for a smooth move to Canada. It is best to select a company with experience in international relocations to ensure familiarity with customs regulations and transportation logistics. When selecting an international removals service, consider factors such as reliability, pricing, and customer feedback to ensure your belongings are in safe hands.
Some removal companies also offer comprehensive services such as packing, storage, and insurance, which can make the transition easier. Opting for a door-to-door service can help reduce stress by handling everything from packing at your current home to delivery at your new residence in Canada. This allows you to focus on settling into your new environment without worrying about logistics.
9. Prepare for the Weather
Canada has different climates depending on where you live. The West Coast, including Vancouver, has mild, rainy winters and warm summers. The Prairies, such as Calgary and Edmonton, experience very cold winters with temperatures dropping to -30°C but have sunny summers. Central Canada, including Toronto and Ottawa, has hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Atlantic Canada, such as Halifax and Newfoundland, has a cool, rainy climate with harsh winters. Investing in warm clothing, including a winter coat, boots, gloves, and thermal layers, is necessary if moving to a cold region.
Leisure and Recreation
Canada offers plenty of outdoor and indoor activities. Skiing and snowboarding are popular in British Columbia and Alberta. National parks like Banff and Jasper provide excellent hiking opportunities. Major cities have rich cultural scenes, with museums, festivals, and food markets year-round. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy kayaking, fishing, and camping, which are popular across the country.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Getting around Canada depends on where you live. Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have reliable public transport systems, including buses and metro services. In smaller cities and rural areas, a car is often necessary. Due to Canada’s large size, domestic flights are commonly used for long-distance travel.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Canada from the UK is an exciting opportunity. Whether you choose Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, or Ottawa, Canada offers a high quality of life and plenty of job opportunities. Planning carefully, applying for the right visa, and preparing for the cost of living will make your transition smoother.
Thinking about moving to Canada? Start planning today!
