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Blog • North America • 18 Apr 2024
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Many British expats now prefer immigration to Canada for its vast landscapes and high living standards. At Deliver1, we help individuals and families with their UK to Canada relocation. This article will make your cross-Atlantic move smoother.
Moving to a new country is a big decision. Canada is a top choice because it offers both a familiar language and new chances. We'll guide you through moving from the UK to Canada. Here, we’ll talk about cultural diversity, strong job markets, and welcoming immigration policies that British expats love.
Making the move to another country requires careful expat planning. It's like having a map to navigate the journey. Embracing the Canadian lifestyle comes with costs and changes. But, with smart financial planning for immigration, British expats can have a smoother experience. We have prepared a checklist and insights on lifestyle changes to expect.
Looking at the finances of moving, we first consider relocation expenses. These include visa fees, shipping possessions, and finding a place to live. But this is just the beginning of your adventure in Canada. We offer a moving checklist to help. It covers everything from hiring movers to signing up for healthcare once you're there.
Moving Stage | Checklist Item | Details |
| Pre-Departure | Finalise Accommodation | Secure temporary or permanent housing arrangements in Canada. |
| Pre-Departure | Organise Finances | Ensure access to funds through international banking solutions; engage in currency exchange if necessary. |
| On Arrival | Healthcare Registration | Sign up for provincial health service to ensure immediate healthcare coverage. |
| On Arrival | Apply for Social Insurance Number (SIN) | Necessary for employment and access to government programs and benefits. |
Planning your budget and listing all tasks is key. Yet, the most impactful change is in the day-to-day life. Adapting to the Canadian lifestyle means getting used to new cultures and even the weather. From cold winters to local customs of kindness, these are the parts of your new life in Canada.
Moving your life from the UK to Canada is a big decision, especially when you think about the costs. It's important to look at different kinds of expenses. These include immigration expenses, fees for international movers, and other costs when you arrive. We aim to help you understand these costs for better planning.
Expense Category | Low-End Estimate (£) | High-End Estimate (£) |
| Visa Application Fees | 1,000 | 2,500 |
| Flight Costs | 375 | 850 |
| International Moving Charges | 2,000 | 7,000 |
| Settling-In Expenses | 1,500 | 4,000 |
| Insurance Costs | 150 | 500 |
The costs above give you a rough idea of what you might spend. Each person's expenses will vary, depending on their choices and what they need. You might pay more or less for international movers, your new home, or how you choose to live in Canada.
Moving from the UK to work in Canada means diving into a job market full of possibilities. Various sectors are hiring. It's key for Brits to understand the need for work permits. These are essential for legal work in Canada.
Looking for a good job in Canada is more than just searching; it needs planning to meet employer expectations. Big cities like Toronto and Vancouver, along with provinces like Alberta, are looking for skilled people. To help with fitting in, it’s a good idea to network. You can use career fairs, recruitment agencies, and job sites made for newcomers.
Along with networking, getting the right work permit is critical. You usually get this after a job offer. The kind of permit you need changes depending on the job and how long it lasts. We've listed the main work permits and the job fields with lots of opportunities in Canada.
Type of Work Permit | Description | Sectors with High Employment Opportunities |
| Open Work Permit | Allows you to work for any employer in Canada | Technology, Healthcare, Education |
| Employer-specific Work Permit | For employment with a specific employer | Engineering, Finance, Digital Media |
| Post-Graduation Work Permit | For graduates from Canadian institutions | Research, Environmental Sciences, Arts |
| International Experience Canada | For young individuals from participating countries | Tourism, Agriculture, Hospitality |
Canada's economy is doing well, and understanding work permits is key. It's also vital to know about Canadian work laws and office culture. This helps UK professionals fit in better, respecting the rules and the way people work.
Canada's economy offers many in-demand jobs for those coming from the UK. Jobs are available across the country, allowing for career growth in Canada. This guide is ideal for British expats looking for skilled work.
The career growth in Canada benefits from the country's openness to skilled foreigners. Canada welcomes experts in fields like technology, healthcare, and engineering. The labour market is dynamic and welcoming.
Industry | Cities with Highest Demand | Median Salary Range | Projected Growth (Next 5 Years) |
| Technology | Toronto, Vancouver | $75,000 - $100,000 | 22% |
| Healthcare | Toronto, Montreal | $65,000 - $90,000 | 18% |
| Engineering | Calgary, Ottawa | $80,000 - $120,000 | 15% |
| Finance | Toronto, Vancouver | $70,000 - $95,000 | 12% |
| Education | Ottawa, Edmonton | $50,000 - $70,000 | 10% |
The Canadian labour market has many in-demand jobs. What makes Canada appealing are its innovative growth strategies. There's rising demand in sustainability, artificial intelligence, and multimedia. This shows a job market that's innovative and future-oriented.
Canada's focus on diversifying its workforce attracts British professionals. Aligning with the market's needs boosts their chances for success and satisfaction in Canada. This commitment to growth is key for expats aiming to thrive.
Overwhelmed by the complexities of moving to Canada? Deliver1 simplifies your relocation. Expert international moving services for a hassle-free start. Get in touch today!
Knowing the Express Entry system is key for UK citizens planning to live in Canada. Here, we explain what you need to know about eligibility, costs, and more for a Canadian visa.
The Express Entry system is designed for skilled workers. It assesses them on age, education, work experience, and language abilities. First, you must create an online profile. This is then scored using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Candidates with high scores may be invited to apply for permanent residency.
If you're not eligible for Express Entry, other visas might work, like work permits or student visas. Work permits require a job offer from a Canadian employer. For those wanting to study, student visas let you experience Canada's top schools. Each visa type has its own requirements.
Type of Visa | Eligibility Criteria | Application Costs | Processing Time |
| Express Entry | Skilled work experience, Language proficiency, Educational credential assessment | From C$1,325 | 6 months on average |
| Work Permit | Job offer from a Canadian employer, Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) | From C$155 | Varies by case |
| Student Visa | Acceptance from a designated learning institution, Proof of financial support | From C$150 | 90 days or more |
You'll need several documents for the Canadian visa process, such as police certificates and medical exams. Getting to know these requirements early is crucial. If you need help or have questions about the Express Entry system, reaching out to authorised experts can be very helpful.
We're here to help you achieve permanent residency in Canada. Our in-depth knowledge of the Express Entry system and the visa process can help make your dream of living in Canada a reality.
Starting a new life in Canada is an exciting idea for many Britons. However, to relocate successfully, detailed pre-move planning is vital. Our moving to Canada checklist plays a crucial role. It guides you through important immigration tasks, making your move as smooth as possible. Here, we list the key steps with a relocation timeline, helping you manage this big change effectively.
We've put together a detailed table. It breaks down these tasks with a timeline. This helps manage all key pre-move planning aspects correctly.
Task | T-minus 12 months | T-minus 6 months | T-minus 3 months | T-minus 1 month |
| Visa Application Submission | ✓ | |||
| Engage International Movers | ✓ | |||
| Housing Arrangements | ✓ | |||
| Arrange Temporary Health Insurance | ✓ | |||
| Schools Research and Contact | ✓ | |||
| Financial and Government Notifications | ✓ | |||
| Finalise Accommodation in Canada | ✓ |
"At Deliver1, we understand that moving countries can be a huge task. But with our moving to Canada checklist and plan, we're by your side every step of the way."
Keep the timeline close and tailor it to fit your needs. Being organised is essential. This table helps you focus and manage each moving phase. Check this list many times as your moving date gets closer. It helps you ensure nothing is missed.
When planning your move to Canada, it's important to sort out the needed travel documentation and expat paperwork. This step ensures you have a smooth start in your new country. Here is a list of the personal records for moving that British expats must gather:
Documents should be translated, certified, or notarised if they're not in English or French. It’s smart to have several photocopies. Also, keep digital copies online where you can always get to them.
Document | Original | Certified Copy | Translated | Notes |
| Passports | Yes | Yes | If necessary | Ensure all pages are copied |
| Visa Documentation | Yes | Yes | N/A | Include confirmation letters |
| Academic Records | Yes | Yes | Yes | Include qualifications equivalency |
| Medical Records | Yes | Yes | Yes | Must be up-to-date |
Always keep your personal records for moving close when travelling. Canadian immigration may ask to see them when you enter. By following these steps, you'll meet all expat paperwork needs and avoid delays.
Exploring Canadian life, we've collected stories from expats. They reveal a life full of diversity and welcome. For many Brits, settling in Canada means a better standard of living and a strong community feel. Canada blends calm nature with lively cities, offering a mix of experiences for those moving from the UK.
Moving countries can feel scary. We've gathered tips to help newcomers understand Canadian culture and day-to-day living. Here are thoughts shared by British expats about life in Canada. They focus on fitting into the community and the essence of Canadian lifestyle:
“When I moved to my new Canadian neighbourhood, the friendly people made it easy and fun. The healthcare and education here are top-notch. People also value a good work-life balance”. – An expat's testimonial
Connecting with cities and communities helps make new friends and build a social network. This social blending reassures UK expats and helps them feel they belong.
To show the expat lifestyle and living costs, we've made a comparison table. It helps British expats see typical expenses in their new Canadian life.
Category | Average Cost in the UK (£) | Average Cost in Canada (C$) |
| Groceries | 60 | 90 |
| Rent (One-bedroom, City Centre) | 750 | 1,200 |
| Dining Out (Mid-range Restaurant) | 55 | 65 |
| Monthly Public Transport Ticket | 65 | 91 |
| Utilities (Monthly Average) | 154 | 150 |
Exploring life as an expat in Canada means looking into cost of living. It's vital to know the financial side to plan your move well. This includes housing expenses, daily needs, and regular costs. We aim to help you manage your budget for a comfortable life.
Living costs in Canada compared to the UK vary, especially between cities. Housing often takes up most of your budget. So, knowing housing expenses in big cities is key. Also, don't forget daily expenditures like food, travel, and fun. They add up, affecting your overall budget.
To show you these differences, here's a table of living costs across Canadian cities:
Expense Category | Toronto | Vancouver | Montreal | UK Average |
| Housing (1-bedroom apartment) | $2,300 | $2,150 | $1,050 | $800 |
| Utilities (monthly average) | $150 | $110 | $80 | $170 |
| Groceries (monthly estimate) | $350 | $340 | $300 | $240 |
| Public Transport (monthly pass) | $155 | $100 | $85 | $65 |
| Dining Out (average meal) | $20 | $18 | $15 | $12 |
This table helps set a baseline for your expenses. Yet, we advise making a budget that suits your needs. Start saving early and spend wisely on extras. This helps your move to Canada go smoothly.
Seek out financial planners when moving to Canada. They offer tailored advice for managing your money well.
"Smart budgeting and understanding local costs are key to adapting in Canada. Include financial planning in your move strategy."
Having up-to-date financial info is crucial for this process. We're here to provide resources, like cost calculators and budget tools, for your move.
As we explore Canadian culture, we admire its unique blend. Tradition and diversity create a rich tapestry. For a British expat, fitting in means appreciating this mix. They must embrace Canada's cultural mosaic.
Canada's culture shines in its languages. English and French are the main ones. But many more languages add to the diversity. This shows Canada's rich cultural mix.
"Cultural adjustment is not merely about learning a new language; it's about engaging in the stories and experiences that the language carries."
Canadian holidays and festivals are about inclusion. Events like the Calgary Stampede and Canada Day show this. British expats can find joy in these celebrations. Arts and entertainment are also key. Canada is proud of its theatre, music, and films.
Food also plays a big role in Canada's culture. Dishes like poutine and maple syrup treats are popular. Global flavours offer comfort to British expats. They also encourage trying new foods.
Cultural Feature | Description | Expat Adaptation |
| Languages | Official bilingualism in English and French, along with Indigenous and immigrant languages | Take language classes, attend community language events |
| Holidays and Festivals | A blend of Indigenous, national, and local celebrations | Participate in local celebrations and national holidays |
| Arts and Entertainment | Theatres, film festivals, and a thriving music scene | Attend performances and festivals to connect with local communities |
| Cuisine | A variety of dishes influenced by Indigenous, French, English, and global culinary arts | Explore local eateries and indulge in cooking classes |
To adjust culturally, British expats must be open to new experiences. Being part of festivals, conversations, and food adventures helps. This openness strengthens Canada's inclusive culture.
As experts on moving abroad, we highlight important expat considerations for Canada. You'll find the Canadian climate varies a lot, affecting your daily routine. Learning to love each season is essential for expats in this big country.
Adapting to social customs here means embracing many cultures, showing politeness, and valuing the community. Making connections in work and social circles helps settle in. It's vital for personal and career growth.
It's important to balance work and fun. Canada values life quality, attracting many Brits. Finding time for work and play makes living here rewarding. Getting involved in community events and enjoying nature helps.
Aspect | Consideration | Expat Tip |
| Climate | Varied weather conditions | Invest in appropriate seasonal apparel and discover indoor and outdoor activities for all seasons. |
| Social Customs | Understanding local etiquette | Observe and engage, understanding that a respectful approach opens doors to new friendships. |
| Networking | Professional and community | Join local groups, attend events, and maintain an active online presence within professional circles. |
| Work-Life Balance | Prioritising personal time | Set boundaries at work and carve out time for personal interests and relaxation. |
Education in Canada is top-notch, offering high-quality learning for both locals and those coming from abroad. If you're moving from the UK, it's important to know about the schooling choices for your kids. Schools here offer many options, including public and private ones, with many teaching in both English and French.
To start your kids' education in Canada, you need to know how to sign them up. Each province has its own way of registering, but all schools are good at welcoming students from other countries.
Canadian universities are world-renowned for being innovative and excellent in research. They stand out in global rankings. This opens many doors for students finishing high school or those looking for higher studies.
Also, Canada recognises UK qualifications. This is great for accessing advanced courses that boost your career in this lively economy.
Canadian education not only focuses on high academic standards but also promotes critical thinking, creativity, and understanding of different cultures.
The big day will be here before you know it, bringing lots of things to do. Use moving day tips from those who've moved before to help you. Make sure your things are safe and keep important papers close. Once you arrive in Canada, focus on getting used to your new home. Join local groups, enjoy the culture, and start making new friends to help you grow.
In the first few weeks, enjoy the new things but also start setting up a routine. Whether you're meeting new people, seeing your area, or just enjoying the scenery, these experiences will help you love Canada even more. We've given lots of advice for your move. Now, it's up to you to make the final steps. Good luck as you start this exciting new chapter. Are you ready for Canada? We think you are.
Ready to make your Canadian dream a reality? Contact Deliver1 today to discuss your international move. Our experts make relocation seamless.
It depends on the duration and purpose of your stay. For short visits (up to 6 months), UK citizens generally don't need a visa. However, if you plan to work, study, or live in Canada permanently, you'll need to apply for the appropriate permit or visa.
Canada offers several immigration programs catering to different needs and skills. Some popular options include:
Eligibility criteria vary depending on the immigration program. Generally, factors like age, education, work experience, language skills, and adaptability are considered. It's advisable to check the specific requirements for each program or consult with an immigration professional.
Yes, but you'll need a valid work permit. Some work permits are tied to a specific employer, while others (like those under IEC) offer more flexibility.
Processing times vary depending on the program and individual circumstances. Express Entry applications can be processed in as little as six months, while other programs may take longer.
Yes, most immigration programs allow you to include your spouse or partner and dependent children in your application.
Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system. Once you become a permanent resident, you'll be eligible for provincial health coverage after a waiting period, which varies by province.
Yes, you can still receive your UK state pension while living in Canada.
The cost of living varies depending on the location. Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver tend to be more expensive than smaller towns or rural areas.
We love hearing from you-so please get in touch with any questions or queries.
We love hearing from you-so please get in touch with any questions or queries.
