Topic
Published
Aug 17th, 2023
Written By
Kerry Daniels
Kerry is Crown's Director of Sales and Customer Success for the UKI, Nordics and European region based in Prague.
Kerry joined Crown in 1994 in Dubai and has lived in various countries around the world. Kerry is an expert in relocation and understands the challenges faced when moving.
Moving from the UK to Canada is an exciting and life-changing adventure. To help you navigate the process and ensure a successful move, research, and plan early: Start researching Canada's different provinces and cities to find out what best suits your lifestyle and career goals. Create a detailed moving plan, including visa requirements, necessary documents, and a realistic timeline. In this blog we will look at 6 top tips to consider:
1. What visa will you need when moving from the UK to Canada?
Make sure you have the appropriate visa or work permit for your stay in Canada. The process can vary depending on your reason for moving, so consult the Canadian government's official immigration website for accurate and up-to-date information.
As Canada is technically still part of the Commonwealth, it's also relatively easy to emigrate as the Canadian government accepts many British qualifications and work experience. The best way to emigrate to Canada from the UK is to get a Canadian permanent residency (Canada PR). British citizens can stay in Canada for a maximum of 6 months visa-free with the Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). The eTA for Canada can be obtained by UK nationals by completing a straightforward online application form. Most people need a visa or an eTa to travel to Canada. Check entry requirements and find out if you need a visa or an eTA for your visit using this tool.
You may need to provide fingerprints and photos at a visa application centre to apply for permanent residence or work permit. Find out if you need to give biometrics. If you do need to give biometrics, see the list of biometrics collection points.
When you arrive, you must show that you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay, even if you are staying with family or friends. Contact Canada’s High Commission in the UK if you are unsure about visa requirements or your eligibility to enter the country, for example, if you have a criminal record or have been arrested. Ensure all legal documents are in order, including your passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), and any other necessary paperwork.
2. Healthcare and Health Insurance
Familiarise yourself with the Canadian healthcare system and get health insurance to cover medical needs. Healthcare in Canada is provided at the provincial level and has to be applied for so find out about coverage in your chosen province.
There are no special arrangements for British visitors emigrating to Canada. If you have a healthcare emergency, you will need to go to a hospital emergency room or a walk-in clinic to be treated. If you have dual British-Canadian citizenship, you may still have to pay for medical treatment if you don't meet provincial residency requirements for healthcare.
Before you arrive in Canada, it is recommended that newcomers from the United Kingdom purchase private health insurance that gives cover while settling in Canada and completing their provincial healthcare application. There are many health insurance options, do your research and make sure the one you choose gives you the cover required within your budget. If moving to work in Canada health insurance could be a benefit within your package.
3. What is the best way to move your belongings?
When considering moving your belongings from your current home to Canada, there are many factors, such as the number of items, custom clearance, whether you can use the items in Canada, budget, and timeline. These are all essential points to consider. Start planning your move early to avoid any last-minute stress. Create a detailed moving plan, including logistics, packing, and necessary paperwork.
A popular route is to select an international moving company, such as Crown Relocations that specialise in overseas relocations. It will ensure your peace of mind as they specialise and assist with the packing, shipping and customs procedures taking one more thing off your to-do list!
Companies such as Crown Relocations can also help calculate the cost of your move so you can ensure you plan which items you wish to take with you and those you will leave behind. Other points to consider are to declutter and pack wisely. Will you require everything in Canada? Consider selling or donating any items you may no longer need. The best approach taken by many people who relocate is to research your options online and ensure plenty of planning for a smooth relocation process. Prioritise what to take and declutter items you don't need. Consider packing essential documents and valuables in a separate, easily accessible bag for the move.
4. How will you manage your finances?
Prepare your finances for the move. Consider currency exchange rates, banking options, and how you will transfer funds between the UK and Canada.
Canadian banks will typically require you to be resident in the country before considering opening an account for you. This means you’ll need proof of address, identity documents, immigration documents, and a government-issued reference number to progress your bank account application. For some banks however this is not always the case, and there are other options;
You can try and set up a bank account online or over the phone before you make your move to Canada; so it is best if you contact the chosen institution for more information so you have the relevant information. Bear in mind that you will need to provide banks with proof of your identity.
5. Find a Place to Live
Start looking for accommodation in Canada before your move. Whether you plan to rent or buy, explore different neighbourhoods, and consider factors like proximity to amenities, work, and public transportation. Research the Cost of Living: Be prepared for the cost of living in Canada, it can vary depending on the region: research housing costs, utilities, groceries, and other essentials to budget accordingly.
Renting is usually the preferred option when first moving. This will ensure you can try several different housing types or locations to suit your needs.
Start by researching the area you plan to move to; you will find plenty of websites offering all property types and rental periods. While plentyof free websites can assist your process, you can also work with an estate agent, although as they tend to specialise in finding people homes to rent and buy, there is often a fee involved. Typically, this will be a month's rent paid as a commission.
Start planning your move early to avoid any last-minute stress. Create a detailed moving plan, including logistics, packing, and necessary paperwork. Stay Legal and Compliant: Ensure you follow all legal requirements, such as registering with local authorities, updating your address, and renewing your visa or residency permit when needed.
6. Is childcare expensive?
Childcare is considered to be expensive in Canada and varies by province. A couple of provinces such as Quebec and Manitoba have provincially set fees and hence are more affordable than the others. Monthly costs for childcare range from $181 to $1,986 CAD, depending on the province. Options for childcare are varied and range from nannies, daycare centres, home daycares, and preschool programs, to before and after school services. Childcare services may be regulated or unregulated.
Regulated childcare services include centre-based full-day childcare, home childcare, school-aged childcare, and in most provinces, nursery schools and preschools. These are monitored, licensed, and regulated by provincial and territorial authorities.
Unregulated childcare services are provided either in a family childcare home or in the child’s own home. If using this service, as a parent, it is your sole responsibility to assess the quality of childcare provided, manage the relationship with the provider, and to find a new provider if there’s any issue with the arrangement. Make sure you choose the right care for your child, budget and that it covers your requirements and is in the right location.
When making the move from the UK to Canada, ensure you;
Embrace Canadian Culture: Canada is a diverse and multicultural country. Embrace the cultural richness by participating in local events, trying Canadian cuisine, and connecting with locals.
Build a Support Network: Moving to a new country can be overwhelming, but building a support network will make the transition easier. Connect with local community groups, expat associations, and social clubs to meet like-minded individuals and make friends.
Stay Patient and Positive: Moving abroad can be challenging, so be patient with yourself and maintain a positive attitude. Remember that adjusting to a new country takes time; each step forward is a valuable learning experience.
Explore Your New Surroundings: Take the opportunity to explore Canada's natural beauty and cultural landmarks. From the Rocky Mountains to vibrant cities like Toronto and Vancouver, Canada offers many experiences to discover.
Moving from the UK to Canada can offer personal growth, cultural exchange, and new opportunities. Embrace the adventure with an open mind and positive attitude, and you'll soon find yourself at home in the vibrant and diverse country of Canada. Best of luck with your move!