Oh, Canada—where the maple syrup flows freely and saying “sorry” is practically the national pastime. But beyond these charming stereotypes lies a country that consistently ranks among the top destinations for immigrants worldwide.
And for good reason. Universal healthcare that doesn’t bankrupt you, communities where diversity is celebrated rather than merely tolerated, and public transit that actually shows up on time (mostly) make Canada a magnetic north for professionals seeking not just a change of scenery, but a genuine fresh start.
Here’s the plot twist though: Canada’s door, while still open, has recently narrowed. Faced with a housing market that’s gone from “expensive” to “you want to pay HOW much for that closet?” and infrastructure straining at the seams, the Canadian government has pulled back on the welcome mat.
Permanent residency quotas have shrunk faster than a wool sweater in a hot dryer, creating a more competitive landscape for would-be Canadians than at any point in recent memory.
But don’t shelve your dreams of poutine and peaceful living just yet. While the path has grown steeper, it’s far from impassable. The secret now lies in strategy rather than simply throwing your hat into the immigration ring and hoping for the best.
In this guide, we’ll navigate the frozen tundra of paperwork and policies together, revealing exactly how you can position yourself as the kind of immigrant Canada is still eagerly welcoming—even with its new, more selective approach. Your maple leaf adventure isn’t canceled; it just requires a smarter map.
Key Takeaways
- Canada is one of the top destinations for young professionals seeking a new home to grow.
- There are five immigration programs to choose from: Express Entry System, Provincial Nominee Programs, Family Sponsorship, Study Permit and Post Graduate Work Permits, Temporary Work Permits, and Intra-Company Transfers.
- Some of the requirements are: language proficiency, Education Credential Assessments, proof of funds, criminal background checks, and medical examinations.
- Canada has several growing industries, including technology, construction, services, and education.
- Some of the best cities for immigrants include Toronto, Ottawa, Vancouver, Calgary, and Halifax
- Some challenges in moving to Canada would be the high cost of living and finding housing, which is something Corporate Stays can help as a member of CERC
Why Move to Canada?
Canada is one of the top destinations for people seeking a country as their new home, especially among university graduates. Throughout 2010 to 2023, young professionals have continued to choose Canada to live, work, and even continue their studies.
Some of the reasons behind Canada’s popularity are its high quality of life with affordable healthcare and a strong social infrastructure. Canada is also known for job opportunities, with booming industries and a sparse population.
The country also has immigration-friendly policies for foreigners. Some of its welcoming immigration policies include Express Entry System, Post Graduation Work Permit, Family Sponsorship, and Provincial Nominee Programs. These pathways allow people to easily transition from temporary to permanent residency, making it a popular choice among immigrants.
Understanding Canadian Immigration Programs
There are several options for you to choose when you decide to immigrate to Canada. Whether you’re an experienced worker or a young student, the country has specific immigration programs for each individual. Here are several immigration programs or Canada visa options you may want to explore:
- Express Entry System: This pathway is for skilled workers, and has three immigration programs: Canada Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Program, and Federal Skilled Trades Program. Applicants can enter the pool online and wait for an invitation from the Canadian government.
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): This is a program for those who already have a specific province or territory they want to move into. Typically, the program targets students, workers, and business people. Check your eligibility and contact the province or territory to ask for a nomination.
- Family Sponsorship: You can also sponsor your family members to bring to Canada. To be eligible for this program, you must prove that you can support them financially. You can sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, dependent children, or relatives. There are also options to sponsor parents and grandparents via invitations.
- Study Permits & Post-Graduate Work Permits (PGWP): Foreign nationals can also obtain study permits if they’re enrolled or accepted into one of Canada’s Designated Learning Institutions. After graduation, students may be eligible to apply for a PGWP that’s valid for up to 3 years.
- Temporary Work Permits & Intra-Company Transfers: You may also apply for a temporary work permit to enter Canada, which can be done from inside or outside the country. There’s also the option of Intra-Company Transfer if you’re already working for a multinational company that has a Canadian location.
If you’re overwhelmed with all the options, explore their immigration programs by answering several questions and finding one that’s right for you.
Eligibility and Requirements for Immigration
Before moving to Canada, it’s important to get to know the requirements for a smoother process. Here are some of the requirements you may need to prepare:
- Language proficiency: You need to prove your proficiency in either French or English. The approved language tests for English are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP), and the Pearson Test of English Core. For French speakers, the approved tests are Test d’evaluation de francais (TEF) and Test de connaissance du francais (TCF).
- Education credential assessments (ECA): This assessment is required for foreign graduates. It will verify whether your degree, diploma, or certificate is valid and equal to a Canadian one.
- Proof of funds: You’ll need proof of funds to show the government that you have financial stability when settling in Canada. The amount of funds required will depend on your chosen immigration program and number of family members.
- Medical examinations: You may need to take medical examinations to prove that you’re not medically inadmissible to enter the country, which applies to those who want to visit, study, work, or live permanently in Canada. Possible reasons to have your application rejected would be if you are a danger to public health and safety, or may need excessive health or social services.
- Criminal background checks: You must also provide a police certificate if you’re applying for permanent residency. It may also be needed for students and temporary workers. This is to prove that you won’t pose a security risk to Canada.
- Special measures: Applicable for those affected by conflicts, crises, natural hazards, and other situations in and outside of Canada, facing extraordinary circumstances. People in these areas may be eligible to apply for temporary resident visas by filling in the statutory declaration and crisis web forms online.
Check the complete instructions and requirements by visiting the Canadian government’s immigration website.
Important Considerations When Moving to Canada
Toronto: A Popular City in Ontario, Canada
Before moving to Canada, you need to consider a few factors to help you settle into your new life faster. It’s also important to avoid unwanted surprises and remorse once you move.
Job Market in Canada: Finding Work Before Moving
The job market in Canada is still strong, with several high-demand industries, including technology, construction, services, and education. According to the Canadian immigration site, here are the top 10 most wanted occupations for 2025:
- Software developer/engineer
- Registered nurse
- Financial analyst
- Electrician
- Mechanical engineer
- Data analyst
- Human Resources Manager
- Marketing Specialist
- Welder
- Early childhood educator
Even if your expertise or occupation is not listed on the list, you can still find opportunities through websites such as Job Bank, Indeed, and Linkedin. There’s also the option of going to recruitment or job agencies to secure employment, but remember to use legitimate organizations to avoid scams.
If you think you can fare well in Canada, it’s time to refresh your resume and cover letter to start applying for jobs. List your qualifications and experiences for the position, then start preparing for your interview.
There’s also the option of volunteering to build your resume. By having this experience, you can create more networks and contacts and show potential employers your competencies in a Canadian environment. You can read up on Volunteer Canada for more information.
Canadian workplaces put great emphasis on work-life balance, so be mindful of working hours and respect your colleagues’ personal time. You’re also expected to communicate harmoniously with coworkers with diverse cultural backgrounds, be adaptable, and be collaborative.
Cost of Living in Canada: What to Expect
The average salary of a Canadian worker will depend on your industry, occupation, and area. Entry-level positions could pay between CAD 30,000 and 70,000 per year, while the minimum hourly wage varies between CAD 15 and CAD 19. On the other hand, experienced workers or managerial positions could expect a salary of CAD 100,000 upwards.
Some of the best cities in Canada for immigrants are Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, Halifax, and Ottawa. These cities are known for growing opportunities, vibrant communities, and welcoming culture. You can find different booming industries in each city and see which city fits you best:
| City | Employment Opportunities | Cost of Living |
| Toronto | Finance, technology, media, and healthcare | High |
| Vancouver | Technology, film, tourism, and natural sciences | High |
| Calgary | Technology, finance, health care | Mid to Low |
| Halifax | Public sector, health care, education, fisheries | Mid to Low |
| Ottawa | Public sector, technology, and healthcare | Mid |
The average cost of living also varies greatly between cities. Some of the expenses you’ll need to cover are housing costs, utilities, groceries, and transportation.
In high income cities, such as Toronto and Vancouver, the rent averages around CAD 2,000/month for a one bedroom, utilities, and internet around CAD 200/month, groceries around CAD 400/month, and transportation around CAD 150/month.
In total, the cost of living in a high income city in Canada is around CAD 2,750/month
For more affordable cities, such as Calgary and Halifax the cost of rent is around CAD 1,100/month, utilities and internet around CAD 200/month, groceries around CAD 300/month, and transportation around CAD 120/month. In total, the cost of living in a low to mid income city in Canada is around CAD 1,620.
How to Find Housing in Canada
While many immigrants initially picture themselves in quaint snow-covered cottages, the reality often involves frantically scrolling through rental listings at midnight in a coffee shop with free Wi-Fi. Your first Canadian address doesn’t need to have a white picket fence, but it should give you a solid foundation as you settle in. Many newcomers find short term rentals in Toronto provide the perfect landing pad—offering flexibility while you explore neighborhoods and get your bearings in Canada’s bustling financial hub.
Not feeling the Toronto vibe? Montreal offers a completely different flavor of Canadian living. With its European flair, vibrant arts scene, and significantly more affordable cost of living, it’s no wonder many immigrants are drawn to Quebec’s cultural capital. Starting with short term rentals in Montreal gives you freedom to immerse yourself in both French and English environments while searching for your permanent nest. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about learning to navigate winter while living in a city that’s mastered the art of underground shopping tunnels.
For those seeking a perfect middle ground between big-city opportunities and small-town charm, Ottawa quietly beckons. Canada’s capital city offers impressive career options (particularly in government and tech sectors) paired with shockingly reasonable commute times. Beginning your Canadian journey with short term rentals in Ottawa means waking up to Parliament views while having the breathing room to understand exactly what kind of housing suits your long-term needs. The locals will tell you that the best neighborhoods are often found by exploring on foot—preferably with a Beavertail pastry in hand for true Ottawa authenticity.
For example, Corporate Stays is a member of the Canadian Employee Relocation Council (CERC) and can help professionals find new homes in Canada. You can easily find furnished apartments in certain areas and settle down for a while.
On the other hand, you can also buy a property in the country. If you’re planning on getting a mortgage to buy a home, you can expect to pay at least 10% of the home’s value before getting the loan. You should also have a minimum of three months full time stable employment.
Canadian Healthcare System
The Canadian healthcare system is known for being a source of national pride for its people and international envy for others. The country’s publicly funded health care system is called Medicare, in which all residents have reasonable access to seek professional medical assistance without paying out of pocket.
Medicare covers family doctor visits, emergency room visits, outpatient appointments, inpatient care or surgery, medicines, diagnostics, radiation therapy, cancer support services, and mental health services. To supplement it, Canadians would also pay for private healthcare that covers other areas such as dental treatments and vision care.
This universal healthcare is only available for Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and several groups of temporary residents. Usually, it’s common for expatriates or newcomers to rely on private healthcare before they become a permanent resident in the country.
Cultural Adaptation and Settling In
Canadian Winters Can be Challenging for Newcomers
Canada has a very welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. One of the first things you’ll notice is how friendly and polite people are in the country. They never forget to say “sorry”, “please”, and “thank you” in everyday conversation. On the other hand, they also value personal space and boundaries. Try to also adopt the same manner to build positive relationships with the people around you.
If you’re from a warmer climate, be aware of Canada’s fluctuating temperatures across the country. Some territories can have very hot summers, while others have freezing cold winters. Invest in proper winter gear if you decide to live in colder regions.
Another factor to settle is financial setup. You can open a bank account in Canada by using your Permanent Resident Card or other form of identification. International students can use their student visa while temporary foreign workers can use their work visa.
To get around, you can use public transportation in Canada by purchasing one-time, daily, weekly, or monthly passes. All cities and major towns in Canada have decent transportation systems that include buses, trains, subways, light-rail trains, and trams. Tickets can be purchased from convenience stores, major transit stations, or the bus driver.
Another option to get around is by obtaining a Canadian driver’s license. Licenses can be issued for citizens, permanent residents, or temporary residents. Some foreign nationals can easily exchange their international driver’s license to a Canadian license, but other countries may need to pass certain tests depending on the territory.
To find more information and have an easier transition to your life in Canada, try checking out local community support groups or expat networks in your area.
Pros and Cons of Moving to Canada
We’ve covered many different considerations for those interested in moving to Canada. TO help you decide, here are the pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Diverse immigration program options
Booming industry and more job opportunities Universal healthcare Proper social infrastructure Welcoming culture and community Work-life balance |
Stricter policy and lower quota on permanent residency
High cost of living May need more expensive private healthcare before obtaining PR |
FAQs About Moving to Canada
How long does the immigration process take when moving to Canada?
Usually, it takes around six months after the date of submission. Some cases may take longer or faster than others, depending on your circumstances and how thorough your documentations are.
Can I move to Canada without a job offer?
Yes, you can move to Canada without a job offer by utilizing the Express Entry program via the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Canadian Experience Class. You’ll be considered based on your age, education, work experience, and language skills.
What are the best cities in Canada for immigrants?
Some of the best cities in Canada for immigrants are Calgary, Halifax, Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa. These cities have booming industries that can give immigrants job opportunities and welcoming, diverse communities.
How much money do I need to move to Canada?
The amount of money you’ll need will depend on your situation, such as your occupation and family size. For example, a worker would need at least CAD 14,690 to settle in Canada and an additional fund of around CAD 4000 for each family member.
What is the easiest way to get PR in Canada?
Some consider the Express Entry system to be the fastest and easiest way to obtain PR. You can submit your profile as a skilled immigrant, get your permit, and receive an invitation within six months.
Final Thoughts: Is Moving to Canada the Right Choice for You?
Canada is the number one choice for young professionals and international students looking to grow. It has five different options or programs to choose from: Express Entry System, Provincial Nominee Programs, Family Sponsorship, Study Permits and Post Graduate Work Permits, and Temporary Work Permits and Intra-Company Transfers. The country has booming industries and plenty of job opportunities, but it also has a considerably high cost of living. To help you settle, remember to plan accordingly by seeking employment and housing early, and don’t forget to seek expert advice.
