Did you know that Canada is also known as the Great White North and that Santa is supposedly a Canadian citizen? The things that come to my mind while referring to Canada are beautiful landscapes, friendly people, indigenous culture, multilingual communities, abundant wildlife, historic cities and small towns. No wonder Canada is the hottest destination for migration. Isn’t just the thought of moving to Canada so exciting? As per IRCC, Canada welcomed 184,624 immigrants in 2020, the lowest in any calendar year since 1998, almost half (-45.9%) of what it was in 2019. In 2019, there were 5,774,342 immigrants to Canada as visitors, workers and students. In 2018 the number was 6,024,233.

It’s so true that migrating to a new country exposes you to a change in culture, physical environment and lifestyle. It’s good to be aware of a few important points for a smooth transition to the Great White North. This will not only help you prepare for the journey but will also aid in embracing these changes with the right expectations, fewer shocks, confusions, and pitfalls.

Here are a few helpful hints for you:

Weather

As soon as one mentions Canada, you tend to envision bitter, cold weather and snow. Does this mean Canada has only one season? Not really! Canada has four proper seasons - Spring (March to May), Summer (June to August / September), Autumn (September to November), and Winter (December to February or later). Temperatures can vary from -40°C to 35°C in a year. So, Canada is not always cold.

Culture

Canada is a vast, multicultural and multilingual country. International migration accounted for 58.0% of population growth in 2020. In comparison, this proportion has been above 65% since 2000 and reached a peak of 85.7% in 2019. Regardless of your gender, ethnicity, religion and occupation, you are accepted here. Usage of niceties like “sorry,” “thank you,” “may I,” “excuse me,” and “please,” is a social standard. ‘Canadian English’ might sound surprising till you get used to the lingos. Tipping in Canadian restaurants, salons and taxis, along with a “Thank you”, is much expected.

Jobs

There are ample job opportunities across the country. If you don’t have Canadian degrees, then get your foreign credentials assessed. Bring along adequate education and work-related documents. Build a strong professional network. Though you might kickstart your Canadian career at a level lower than your home country, just after only a year or two you’ll be back where you were, and maybe even better off because hard work is rewarded.

Cost of Living

The cost of living is the highest in Vancouver and Toronto. Most Canadians spend 35% to 50% of their income on housing and utilities. This includes the cost of renting your home or paying your mortgage (a mortgage is a long-term loan.) It also includes the often-high cost of heating your home and paying for electricity, telephone service and water. Getting stuff repaired is costlier than getting it replaced. The listed or sticker price of items is further added with taxes for the actual selling cost. Bring proof of your credit history which will allow you to apply for a loan or a credit card. However, it’s advisable not to fall into the trap of unnecessary spending and credit card usage, at least in the initial phases. Use public WiFi as often as possible as mobile data plans are expensive. Bring as much cash savings as possible. Better to be safe than sorry. 

Public Facilities

Not everything under health care is free, even for permanent residents and citizens. It is a good idea to arrive with international health insurance to offset medical expenses a bit. Basic public education remains a free and accessible right to any Canadian citizen or permanent resident and their children under the age of 18. Children of refugees, asylum seekers, and other documented immigrants have free access to education too. 

Feeling all the more thrilled after reading this? Canada is one of the best countries to live in. Live in this beautiful country, get addicted to the taste of maple syrup, and enjoy ice hockey. Whatever part of Canada you choose to live in, you'll have a great time and find something that suits you.