The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Canada from the UK: A Smooth Transition

If you’re among those considering this move, you likely have many questions about how to make the transition smoothly. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of relocating from the UK to Canada.

Canada and the United Kingdom share not only a head of state, but also a profound relationship rooted in historic ties and strategic partnerships across trade, science, and global cooperation. Their trade relations are an important source of economic growth for both countries. The bilateral trade and investment partnerships, supported by the Canada-United Kingdom Trade Continuity Agreement, ensure continued market access for businesses from both nations after Brexit. The partnership extends to science and technology, focusing on innovative fields such as AI and clean energy. For UK citizens considering moving from the UK to Canada, these connections facilitate economic opportunities and collaborative ventures in various sectors, bolstered by a shared commitment to addressing global challenges and promoting economic development in international organizations.

If you’re among those considering this move, you likely have many questions about how to make the transition smoothly. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of relocating from the UK to Canada.

A brief overview of Canada

Canada, the second largest country in the world by area, spans over 10 million square kilometres (3.9 million square miles), offering vast and varied landscapes from the Atlantic to the Pacific coasts. As of 2021 census, Canada has a population of approximately 37 million people. The nation operates with the Canadian Dollar (CAD), and the exchange rate with the British Pound (GBP) is typically favourable, making it an economical option for those relocating from the UK. English and French are the two official languages, spoken by about 56% and 21% of the population respectively, reflecting Canada’s strong commitment to bilingualism.

For potential movers from the UK, Canada’s economic stability, coupled with its expansive natural beauty and high quality of life, makes it an attractive destination. The country is well-regarded for its multicultural society, with a significant portion of the population (over 20%) born outside of Canada, which fosters a diverse and inclusive community. Whether it’s the vibrant, cosmopolitan atmosphere of cities like Toronto and Vancouver or the serene landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, Canada offers a welcoming environment for both settling and exploring.

Life in Canada

Differences in lifestyle and Canadian culture

One of Canada’s defining characteristics is its vast open spaces, making nature exploration vital to Canadian culture. Opportunities like this are rare in the UK and hardly comparable to what Canada offers. The country’s weather and geographical diversity support a wide range of activities, from sunny beach days to snowboarding in the mountains, even within the same Canadian province.

Canada’s diversity also makes it unique. Cultural celebrations vary by province. In Alberta, the Calgary Stampede is a major event celebrating culture and heritage, with music, rodeos, and parades. Quebec boasts a rich French culture, with many residents fluent in French, influencing the region’s customs and traditions. The New France Festival, for example, celebrates the arrival of the first Europeans with costumes, fine art, and culinary events. Ontario embraces winter with the Winterlude festival in Ottawa, held every February for over 40 years. Summer brings festivals like the Honda Celebration of Light in Vancouver, the world’s largest offshore fireworks competition, featuring food trucks, concerts, and stands.

Canadians value a good work-life balance, spending their free time on recreational activities like sports, nature exploration, and cultural consumption. Popular outdoor activities include visiting natural parks, observing wildlife, and engaging in outdoor sports such as walking, running, camping, cycling, and water sports, all conducted with respect for the environment. Winter sports are also prevalent, with ice hockey being the national sport widely played across the country. Skiing, ice skating, snowboarding, and activities like sliding on frozen slopes are also popular. Visual and performing arts, including cinema, theater, music, and the Cirque du Soleil, play an essential role in Canadian leisure. Major cultural festivals include the Toronto Film Festival and the Montreal Jazz Festival, which have always attracted international attention. For those interested in French culture, the Francos festival in Montreal features French-language performers from around the world.

Cost of Living

If you’re considering a move to Canada from the UK, comparing the cost of living differences between cities may aid in your decision. For example, London is significantly more expensive than Montreal, a vibrant city renowned for its culture, European vibes, and quality of life. Specifically, the overall cost of living in London is 24.5% higher than in Montreal when excluding rent. Including rent, this figure jumps to 58.9%, with rent prices in London being nearly 140% higher than those in Montreal. Dining out in London will also cost you about 23% more than in Montreal. However, grocery prices are 6.4% lower in London.

As of the time of publication of this blog, to maintain the same standard of life in London as you would have in Montreal with a budget of 5,000 CAD (after taxes), you would need approximately 7,942.6 CAD (4,570.8 GBP). If you’re drawn to the unique experiences and opportunities that moving to Canada offers, this financial consideration will be crucial in planning your move.

Healthcare System

Canadian citizens and permanent residents enjoy coverage under the Universal Health Care System, financed through taxes. However, if you’re not a citizen or permanent resident, such as those on temporary visas, you will need to secure private health insurance.

Generally, when you move to Canada with permanent residency status, there is a waiting period (often up to three months) before you can receive public health insurance. During this period, it’s advisable to have private health insurance to cover any medical needs. This applies to British citizens who move to Canada through any of the economic immigration programs such as the federal skilled worker program. Once covered, you will have access to a range of medical services without direct charges at the point of use, similar to the National Health Service (NHS). However, be prepared for potentially longer wait times for certain procedures and services.

UK citizens planning to move to Canada should closely examine the healthcare registration procedures specific to the province they intend to live in, as healthcare management varies by province. This careful preparation ensures a seamless transition into Canada’s healthcare system. For those with dual British-Canadian citizenship, it’s important to note that even if you hold citizenship, you may still need to fulfill certain provincial residency requirements to qualify for free healthcare. Always verify specific details with the relevant province or territory health ministry for more information.

Securing employment and finding the right place to settle

Upon gaining approval for permanent residency, UK citizens are encouraged by the Canadian government to take advantage of pre-arrival services that can help them prepare for the job market. Funded by the government, these services provide tailored support, considering factors such as the specific industry they wish to enter and their future location within the country.

British citizens can start applying for jobs before moving to Canada from the UK. Remember, though, that the most important thing to do once you arrive is to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) (which is required to receive any salary), and to open a Canadian bank account.

As a permanent resident, holder of a temporary working visa, or study permit, you may be eligible to benefit from free services for newcomers to Canada that can include personalized settlement plans, community integration assistance, online resources, job placement, and support for obtaining professional licenses and certifications. There are also targeted services for youth, women, 2SLGBTQI+, and other specific groups designed to facilitate a smooth transition into Canadian society.

If you are planning to move to Quebec, the province also offers specialized language training to support your integration process.

Job Market Comparison and Required Skills

Canada has a low unemployment rate and competitive hourly wages. If you’re about to move to Canada from the UK, consider using the Government’s Job Bank website and mobile app. It offers a wide range of job listings across Canada, along with helpful job-searching tools and labour market information to assist you in finding the right employment opportunities. The Job Bank is a great resource for connecting job seekers with potential employers and facilitating successful employment matches.

In one of our recent blog posts, we demonstrated how much more British citizens could earn in Canada compared to the UK for certain professions. This information is crucial for skilled workers exploring new opportunities in Canada and is based on the latest data from official labour market sources in both countries.

Keep in mind that professions such as doctors, lawyers, architects, teachers, nurses, engineers, and certified professional accountants are regulated by provincial and territorial regulatory bodies. As mentioned previously, some free services offered by the Canadian government may assist you in obtaining the necessary licenses and certifications.

Finding a Place to Live in Canada

According to the last census, many UK-born with permanent residency status in Canada have settled mainly in provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta. Cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary particularly benefit from their contributions, especially those who have immigrated through the federal skilled trades program.

Conversely, exploring life beyond the big cities could unveil hidden opportunities for UK citizens considering moving to Canada from the UK. While small towns might initially seem challenging due to their slower pace and smaller immigrant communities, they offer excellent job prospects and the chance for more meaningful community integration. This path could also lead to an exciting exploring adventure in the Great White North for those who want to make the most of their International Experience Canada Program.

If you are moving to Canada from the UK and are looking for a place to rent or buy, websites like Rentals.ca, Realtor.ca, and Centris.ca offer comprehensive listings across various Canadian regions. These platforms provide valuable resources to compare different options and even offer insights into the Canadian housing market.

Financial Planning

Navigating the financial landscape as a UK citizen planning to move to Canada from the UK involves several key considerations.

Firstly, the costs associated with moving to Canada from the UK can vary depending on the visa category or program. For instance, those entering on a Working Holiday visa (part of the International Experience Canada program) or a standard work permit face different fees and may incur additional costs if an open work permit is required. Skilled worker programs, family sponsorship, and the Right of Permanent Residence Fee present distinct fee structures and higher financial requirements.

Secondly, many Canadian immigration programs require proof of settlement funds to ensure new arrivals can support themselves for the first few months, especially if employment in Canada is not yet confirmed. In addition to these funds, initial expenses might include moving logistics and setting up your new home.

Different ways of Transferring Money to and from Canada

When moving money from the UK to Canada, you might think of using your bank, but this can be costly due to high fees and poor exchange rates. A better option is often a currency exchange service. These services specialize in foreign exchange, offering better rates and lower fees, especially for large transfers. This way, you can send your money to Canada quickly, easily, and more affordable.

UK citizens moving to Canada should understand the local tax system, which includes federal, provincial, and municipal taxes that fund public services like health insurance and education. It’s crucial to know about different tax types, such as income, sales, and property taxes, and the potential tax implications for moving pensions when relocating. Familiarizing yourself with these details can ease your financial transition and maximize benefits. More detailed guidance can be found on the Canada Revenue Agency’s website.

Pensions and Retirement Planning

UK retirees can receive their state pension in Canada, but it remains fixed at the rate it was when they left the UK, with no subsequent increases. For UK pension savings, transferring to a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) can mitigate tax burdens. However, complexities such as the potential 25% overseas transfer charge, which depends on the QROPS’s location and the retiree’s residency, make it essential to consult with financial advisors to effectively navigate these options.

For detailed guidance on pension management as a UK expat in Canada, consider resources from the official UK government website.

Start your journey from the UK to Canada by filling out our free online assessment to find the best path for you.