In recent years, Canada’s strong economy, healthcare system, and multicultural spirit have led to a surge in international students and immigration. But the pros and cons of living in Canada are more than meets the eye.
There are many reasons why the country’s popularity is on the rise among international citizens. Yet some aspects of living in Canada might lead expats to hesitate before committing to a move abroad.
The Pros of Living in Canada
Overall, there are more pros to living in Canada than cons. Low crime, a good job market, and an easy-to-navigate immigration process are but some of the many benefits of moving there.
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Canada is a Diverse and Multicultural Society
Canada is a welcoming, friendly nation with millions of immigrants from a wide variety of cultures.
Approximately 20% of all people who live in the Great White North immigrated from other countries. People from around the globe find it easy to assimilate into Canadian culture and its history of multiculturalism.
All ten Canadian provinces have enacted multicultural policies that promote diversity. Likewise, Canada’s Broadcasting Act of 1991 created incentives for Canadian television and radio broadcasting stations to commit 60% of their programming to multicultural subject matter.
Related: Living Abroad in Toronto
There Are Several Ways to Immigrate to Canada
The government makes it relatively easy to immigrate to Canada and obtain permanent residency.
If you are a skilled worker, have a college degree, and are proficient in English and/or French, you can apply for Express Entry. This is the quickest way to establish permanent residency in Canada.
If your plan is to start a business in a new country, you can apply for a start-up visa to move to Canada. Individuals who have a relative who is a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident can immigrate through the family sponsorship program. There are also immigration programs for caregivers, students, self-employed individuals, and those who would like to retire abroad in Canada.
The Canadian government provides easy-to-use tools for navigating the immigration process. You can visit their website to explore immigration programs and find the one that’s best suited to your needs.
U.S. citizens, EU nationals, and citizens from most other countries may live in Canada for up to six months with no need to obtain a visa or apply for permanent residency. However, after 180 days you’ll need a visa or a work permit to stay and start the process of becoming a permanent resident.
It should also be noted that Canada covers a geographically enormous area. Some regions of the country are more popular among immigrants than others. The Canadian provinces with the highest number of immigrants in 2023 were Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia.
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Canada Has a Strong Economy
The economy in Canada is strong, with one of the top ten highest total GDPs in the world as of 2024. But the Canadian dollar is weaker and worth less than many other global currencies. The US dollar, euro, British pound sterling, and Swiss franc are all worth more.
Canada also has high taxes in comparison to many other countries, in part because of their system of free healthcare. The universal healthcare system is funded in part by the higher tax rate.
Also Read: How Much Is The Cost of Living in Canada for Expats?
Canada Has a Universal Healthcare System
Canada’s universal healthcare system covers the cost of emergency healthcare and regular doctor visits. For that reason, Canadians are more likely to visit a physician or a hospital, unlike some global citizens who may be accustomed to costlier healthcare.
It’s important to note that although Canada’s universal healthcare system covers many expenses and lowers out of pocket costs, it’s not perfect — nor is it entirely free. Doctors are in high demand, and wait times can be long.
Expats looking to reduce wait times and quickly access care for non-life threatening conditions can obtain international private medical insurance to supplement Canada’s public healthcare. This offers expats better access to Canadian hospitals and the freedom to choose any doctor, as well as book faster appointments.
Crime Rates in Canada Are Low
In 2023, the U.S. News & World Report ranked Canada as the third safest country in the world. (Switzerland and Sweden took the top spots, respectively).
Low crime rates make Canada an appealing place to live, particularly for people from the USA, which ranks much lower on the list at number 46.
Canada Offers Free Education Up to Age 18
If you’re planning to move with children, Canada has a great education system. The Canadian government offers free, high-quality schooling from primary/elementary school to secondary/high school.
Education is a top priority for the Canadian government. The country invests more into public school education than any other G7 country. Foreign-born students find it relatively easy to integrate into Canadian schools and tend to perform well.
Canada Has a Low Unemployment Rate
Unemployment rates are low, but expats sometimes have a difficult time finding work in Canada. It depends greatly on the type of skills and experience you have.
Job opportunities are most plentiful for skilled workers in industries where there are shortages. Jobs with the biggest shortages and strongest growth rates include those in the following industries:
- Arts and entertainment
- Real estate
- Administrative and support
- Public administration
- Finance and insurance
- Healthcare
It can be easier to find a job in Canada if you speak French, especially in Quebec where French is the official language. With the exception of New Brunswick, where both English and French are the official languages, English is the principal language in all other parts of the country.
Prospective expats who have trouble finding international jobs in Canada need not worry. Unlike many other countries, you do not need an employment offer to obtain a visa to move to Canada.
Also Read: How to Obtain a Canadian Work Visa
The Cons of Living in Canada
Canada’s harsh winters may be reason enough for some expats to avoid moving there. There are a few other downsides, as well.
Canada Has a High Cost of Living
To enjoy the high quality of life that Canada provides, you’ll have to pay for it. As of 2024, Canada is considered the 15th most expensive country to live in.
If you’re moving to Canada from a country with a higher cost of living, this is good news. But if you’re moving from any of the other 180 nations, everyday expenses will cost more than you’re accustomed to.
One of the key reasons that Canada is so costly is the price of real estate. Property prices are extremely high, driven up by the high demand and short supply of homes. Where you move will matter as well, since you’ll pay even higher costs in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Montreal.
Canada Has Harsh Weather
Canada has four seasons, but it can be quite hot in the summer and very cold in the winter.
Summer temperatures in the country’s interior can go as high as 104 °F (40 °C). Winter temperatures average -58 °F (-50 °C) when you factor in the wind chill.
Some areas of the country have snow on the ground for six or more months of the year. For those who love outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, and alpine sports, this is more of a pro than a con. Just know that in winter, the farther north you go, the earlier in the day the sun sets. Prepare yourself for lots of cold, dark nights.
Traveling Through Canada Can Be Difficult
The public transportation system is excellent in big cities. Unfortunately, unless you have a car, it’s not as simple to travel within the rest of the country.
It can take anywhere from hours to days to travel between major Canadian cities by car, bus, or train. While much of the country’s natural beauty is found in its majestic mountain ranges and pristine lakes, those geographic wonders can force you to take a less-direct route to your destination.
In addition, extremely cold winters often lead to roadblocks and construction projects come spring. That means traveling long distances by car still has its challenges.
Find the Best International Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes and coverage options
- Work with an insurance expert at no additional cost
- Find the best plan for your needs and budget
In Conclusion
Canada is one of the safest and most livable countries in the world, and expats will find that there is more than one pathway to Canadian immigration. But like all nations, the advantages may not always outweigh the disadvantages.
A strong economy, a great education system, and multicultural society make it an excellent choice for international citizens. By contrast, harsh winters, a high cost of living, and long wait times for healthcare can make it more challenging to start a new life in Canada.
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