Canada's rich history is deeply rooted in immigration and multiculturalism. Hundreds of thousands of new permanent residents are welcomed each year under Canada's Express Entry system.
In recent years, moving to Canada from the US has become increasingly popular for numerous reasons. Currently, the US ranks as the ninth most common homeland for immigrants entering Canada.
An international move can be intimidating, but with the right resources, it becomes much simpler. This guide addresses everything you need to know before planning your international move to Canada, from navigating the Visa process to settling into your new home.
People choose Canada as their new home for numerous reasons. The most common reasons include:
You'll most likely need a visa to remain in Canada for longer than 180 days. Of course, you'll also need one if you intend to live, work, or seek education in Canada. While the process is relatively simple, it involves gathering supporting documents and filling out numerous forms.
Canada offers several avenues to qualify for permanent residency. The most common include:
Other avenues for entry also exist, such as processes for business immigration or entering under a temporary work permit.
However, Canada has strict rules about who may be admitted into the nation. For example, many criminal convictions, such as a DUI, theft, assault, or possession of marijuana (under certain circumstances) or other controlled substances, may automatically disqualify someone from permanent residency.
The cost of achieving your Canadian dream varies based on factors, including the method of entry, the reason you're seeking entry and the number of people immigrating with you. For example, the application for business immigration, including the processing fee and right of permanent residence fee, costs $2,140.
How much it will cost to move your belongings also heavily depends on how much you bring with you and how it's brought over.
For example, if you enter as a skilled immigrant under Express Entry, you must show that you currently have a set amount of funds, both when applying and when a permanent resident visa is issued. For a single person, the amount you must have on hand is $13,757 CAD as of April 2023.
Of course, it's generally recommended that you have as much money on hand as possible during your transition. However, there are exceptions to the rule regarding the set amount of funds if you already have a job arranged in Canada prior to moving.
Once you're in the country, living expenses vary. However, the average cost of living for a single person in Canada for a year is about $18,340 CAD, translating to about $13,500 USD. Some major metro areas may have significantly higher costs associated with housing.
Before you begin the application process, calculate all potential expenses. Having these funds can help you avoid any financial mishaps that may hinder or halt your relocation.
In terms of total area, Canada is the second-largest country in the world, just barely surpassing the US and China. Such a large expanse of land is bound to offer numerous environments, cultures, and lifestyles. If you're moving to Canada from the US, the difference between cities can be night and day, much like how walking through San Francisco is a completely different experience compared to meandering the streets of New York.
Tourists move all over Canada, but many move to the following cities:
If you're preparing to move to Canada from the US, your first step is completing all the paperwork. However, relocating your belongings can be a headache in and of itself. How much of your belongings do you want to bring? Will you buy new furniture when you arrive, or do you want to bring yours?
Cross-border moves can be complex because they also involve forms. For example, you must complete certain forms denoting the value, make, model and serial number (when applicable) of the items you bring. Relying on a moving company can assist with the process because they know what's required.
Atlas International is well-versed in the international moving process and the procedures that must be followed when bringing items across the border. When you rely on us, you'll have over 60 years of experience at your disposal to make your move a breeze.
Before your move begins, it's a good idea to organize a checklist of everything you need to do. Consider adding the following to your checklist:
Don't make the mistake of waiting until right before your move to start trying to book movers to bring your belongings. Anyone who has waited until just weeks before the move can tell you how frustrating it is to do so. We recommend contacting us at least 90 days in advance so you can complete the process of getting a quote, moving your belongings and ensuring everything is in order well in advance.
Once you arrive in Canada, it's time to settle into your new home. You'll have numerous forms to fill out, including forms to register for health care. You can fill out the forms online, but there may be a waiting period before you can access your benefits.
You may also need to enroll children in their local school. First-time enrollees must complete a test to determine their education level and whether children may qualify for support, such as classes to improve English or French, depending on the region.
Beyond that, you'll want to connect with your community. All sorts of resources can assist with this, ranging from settlement service providers to local community centers prepared to welcome you with open arms.
Your Canadian adventure awaits. If you've already secured a visa, your next step is hiring movers to help you relocate from the US to Canada. When you choose Atlas International, it's a simple, streamlined process that begins with telling us about your move and what it entails. Contact us by phone or complete the online form to receive a quote and consultation.