What is required to move to Canada?
Canada has several ways to move there, each with different requirements. The main route is Express Entry, which looks at factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills. A job offer can help but isn’t always needed.
Provinces can also select people for local job needs through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which often leads to permanent residence. Young UK citizens can use International Experience Canada for work permits and a chance to gain Canadian experience.
Family sponsorship lets citizens and permanent residents bring spouses, partners, or children. There are also options for business migrants and humanitarian pathways for refugees.
Most programs require basic checks, language proof, and a health check. Fees and documents are needed for applications. Once approved, you become a permanent resident and may eventually qualify for Canadian citizenship.
What does it cost to live in Canada?
Living costs in Canada vary by city and province. Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive, while mid-sized cities are more moderate and smaller centres are cheaper. Rent, utilities, and internet costs add to monthly expenses, and groceries and dining out are generally higher than in many parts of the UK. Public transport is widely available, though driving brings additional costs for fuel, insurance, and parking, which can be higher for newcomers.
Healthcare is managed provincially. Some regions require a waiting period before public coverage starts, so new arrivals may need private insurance initially. Dental care and prescriptions are often only partially covered. Taxes at both federal and provincial levels, along with sales taxes, increase overall expenses. It’s also important to budget for immigration fees and initial setup costs like deposits, furnishings, and local transport.
