Moving to Canada From the US Guide

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. 

Why Thousands Are Moving to Canada From the US

People choose Canada as their new home for numerous reasons. The most common reasons include:

• Work: Canada is currently facing record labor shortages, and the COVID-19 pandemic only worsened them. With record-low unemployment rates paired with record-high job vacancies, the obvious solution is to bring in immigrants to fill the gaps. In recent years, the earnings for immigrants have increased by 39%. 
• Universal Health Care: In the US, health care costs can be high. However, in Canada, it's covered under the national health insurance system. All Canadian citizens and permanent residents have access to medical care as needed, and the vast majority don't have to pay for these services.
• Education: Education is considered a right in Canada. A robust public school system paired with mandatory schooling laws ensures all residents receive a quality education. Additionally, international students often find that the cost of postsecondary education is more affordable in Canada without compromising on quality.
• Safety: Canada is one of the safest nations in the world, with a significantly lower crime rate than the US. Global surveys consistently rate Canada highly in terms of safety and quality of life. It also ranks among the top 10 safest countries and at #2 for LGBT tourists. 
• Better Work-Life Balance: While workers in the US average 47 hours per week, most Canadians rarely work more than 40. Likewise, Canadian workers receive much better protected parental leave. In the US, new mothers get just 12 weeks of unpaid leave, while in Canada, parents receive between 35 and 61 weeks off while collecting benefits through Canada's Employment Insurance.

What You Should Know Before Relocating to Canada

Navigating the Visa Process

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:

• Express Entry: This is the primary means for skilled workers to receive permanent residency. The process typically takes 6 months from start to finish. US citizens are at an advantage for this pathway to Canadian residency since they typically possess higher levels of education, relevant skilled work experience, and strong English language skills. 
• Provincial Nominee Program: This program allows you to apply for entry into a specific province in Canada, which can be particularly useful if you already know where you'd like to settle. It's generally recommended that individuals apply for Express Entry as well. Those who are part of the Express Entry pool receive 600 more points toward the score used to determine whether an individual should be invited for permanent residence in Canada. 
• Family Sponsorship: If you have a spouse or common-law partner who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, they may sponsor you during your immigration process. This process typically takes longer, usually around 12 months from application. Other family members may also sponsor you, including children and grandchildren.

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. 

Budgeting for Your Canadian Dream

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.

Choosing Canada as Your New Home

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:

• Toronto: Toronto's vibrant culture attracts immigrants from around the world. The city is well-known for its acceptance of immigrants, offering cuisines, festivals, and cultural communities, such as Little Italy and Chinatown. It's also a major urban area featuring plenty of job opportunities.
• Montreal: Montreal is a favorite destination for immigrants, thanks to cultural diversity and affordability. It also has a high job vacancy rate, making it easier for immigrants to gain new employment. 
• Calgary: Business-minded immigrants love Calgary for its entrepreneurial spirit. It's home to some of the highest self-employment rates in the country and has more millionaires per capita than the rest of Canada.
• Vancouver: Vancouver attracts those looking for natural beauty amid urban amenities. This city near the Pacific Coast has mountains, beaches, forests and just about anything else a nature-lover could want. 
• Edmonton: Edmonton wins over immigrants for its highly affordable housing market. Financially minded immigrants looking for lower living costs, a stable economy and a booming job market often seek this city out.

Partnering With the Right International Moving Company

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.

Essential Moving to Canada Checklist

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:

• Complete the visa or work permit process.
• Once approved, arrange for your transportation, ensuring your passport is up to date.
• Gather proof of funds.
• Prepare an updated resume in Canadian format and begin the job search process.
• Begin searching for a place to stay. You may need to arrange temporary lodging, such as a hotel or short-term rental, until you can secure a permanent location.
• Gather any pertinent records related to banking and insurance, as well as your medical, education, work, and driving history.
• Prepare any pets you may be bringing and ensure their documents and records are up to date.
• Pack your belongings.
• Arrange for movers to assist.

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.

Settling in Canada: Adapting to Your New Environment

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.

Start Your Canadian Adventure With Atlas

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.