23 Things to Keep in Mind When Moving to Canada

• damiadeniyi
• April 26, 2023
• Culture, Explore Canada
• 0 Comments

Canada is a lovely country with different cultures, stunning natural beauty, and a strong legal system. However, before you pack your belongings and relocate, it is critical to understand what to expect. Here are 23 things to keep in mind when moving to Canada:

1. Geographically and climatically, Canada is a large country with a small population. Travelling to other cities or towns may take a lengthy time. Also, Canada gets quite cold in the winter, necessitating the use of warm clothing and layering strategies. Natural disasters, on the other hand, are uncommon in Canada, so there’s no need to be concerned. 
2. Official Languages: English and French. Although English is used more frequently, there are certain circumstances where French is more useful. For instance, Montreal is mainly a French-speaking city.
3. Diversity: Canada is known for its diversity and is one of the most multicultural countries globally. In big cities like Toronto, you can experience a taste of your homeland’s language, culture, and food, catering to people from all over the world.
4. Politics: Canada is a peaceful country with no political upheavals. Federal elections occur every four years, with all political parties accepting the results. The Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees individuals’ rights and freedoms, promoting inclusivity and equality.
5. Manners: Canadians are known for their polite and friendly nature. It is an accepting society that frowns upon bigotry and racism. People here firmly believe in treating others with respect and kindness.
6. Healthcare: For Canadian citizens and permanent residents, healthcare is universal and free. This means you won’t have to pay for medical bills, but you will have to wait in queue for non-emergency operations.
7. Education: Canada is proud of its outstanding educational system, which is home to several renowned universities and colleges. You’ll be happy to know as a parent that your kids can attend public school for free up until they graduate from high school. Additionally, subsidies for post-secondary education make it more affordable for students.
8. Employment: With a booming economy and a low unemployment rate, Canada is a popular destination for job seekers. Finding a job that suits your talents and qualifications, though, could take some time.
9. Taxes: Canada has a progressive tax system, meaning that people with higher salaries pay a larger proportion of their income in taxes. You must file your taxes each year whether or not you owe any money in taxes.
10. Cost of Living: Depending on the province or city you reside in, Canada’s cost of living varies. Living in big cities like Toronto and Vancouver is typically more expensive. Canada’s cost of living is generally cheaper than those of other nations, such as the US, nonetheless.
11. Housing: Depending on where you reside, housing costs in Canada might be high. You might have to pay hefty rent for apartments or houses in major cities. If you want to reduce your housing expenses, think about relocating to the suburbs or a smaller city.
12. Transport: There are numerous ways to get throughout Canada due to its size. To get around, you can drive, use a bus or train, bike, or walk. But if you intend to live in a rural area, you’ll probably need a car to move around.
13. Culture: The festivals and events held in Canada throughout the year reflect the country’s rich and diverse culture. Everyone can enjoy events like the Calgary Stampede and the Toronto International Film Festival.
14. Wildlife: Bears, wolves, and moose are just a few of the many creatures that call Canada home. It is crucial to be aware of animals and take safety precautions if you intend to go trekking or camping.
15. Transportation: The public transit system in Canada is outstanding, particularly in the main cities. To get around, using the bus, tube, or train is simple. It’s important to familiarise yourself with local laws and road conditions if you intend to drive because driving rules and regulations differ from province to province.
16. Cost of Living: Canada’s cost of living can be higher than that of other nations, particularly in major cities. Costs for housing, food, and healthcare are among the highest, so it’s critical to investigate the cost of living in the city or town you want to move to before making a decision. The greater costs can be partially compensated by the fact that incomes are also often higher in Canada than in other nations.
17. Social etiquette is crucial because Canadians place a high emphasis on decency and respect. Saying “please” and “thank you” and holding doors open for others are a few examples of customs. It’s also crucial to listen intently and refrain from interjecting when others are speaking.
18. Driving: It’s crucial to obtain a valid driver’s licence if you intend to drive in Canada. Normally, you can drive in Canada with your foreign driver’s licence for a short while, but if you intend to stay for a while, you’ll need to get a Canadian driver’s licence.
19. Weather: Canada offers a wide variety of climates, including cold winters and hot summers. It’s crucial to layer your clothing and be prepared for any weather, especially during the winter. Additionally, extreme weather events like blizzards or heat waves should always be avoided.
20. Banking: The banking system in Canada is reliable, and opening a bank account is not too difficult. You may have to pay fees for some services, as well as present identification and evidence of residency. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, it’s also critical to familiarise oneself with Canadian banking policies and charges.
21. Social Programmes: A wide number of social programmes are available in Canada, including old-age security, social assistance, and employment insurance. These programmes may be available to you if you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. It’s crucial to comprehend the qualifying conditions and application procedures, nevertheless.
22. Time Zones: Canada has six distinct time zones, so while travelling or corresponding with people in various regions of the country, it’s crucial to be aware of the time difference. DST, which starts in the spring and finishes in the autumn, should also be taken into consideration.
23. Emergency ServiceS: Police, fire, and ambulance services are all part of Canada’s dependable emergency services network. You can reach these services by dialling 911 in an emergency. When dialling for emergency services, it’s crucial to have your address and location.

Moving to Canada can be an exciting and life-changing experience. However, it’s important to be prepared for the challenges that may arise. By keeping these 23 things in mind, you can make the transition smoother and enjoy all that Canada has to offer.