Canada has a well-deserved reputation for being one of the friendliest places on earth. Not only that but it’s also considered to be one of the safest places to live. If you’re looking for the benefits of moving or immigrating to Canada, you won’t have to look very far.
Whilst most countries have shut their immigration programmes down due to the coronavirus pandemic, Canada has been quick to open migration opportunities in 2021. They are encouraging more skilled people to move to Canada to help bolster the economy.
Family friendly and laid-back, Canada was ranked 9th overall on the 2020 HSBC Expat Explorer Survey (1st for cultural values), as one of the best countries to move to. In addition, three of Canada’s cities recently made the top ten of Economist’s Global Liveability Survey – Calgary was ranked 5th, Vancouver 6th and Toronto 7th.
So why is Canada so popular? And do so many expats and migrants find it one of the most attractive countries in world in which to live and work?
It’s long been a country for people who want to live in a place where clean air, good living standards and safe streets are a priority and that’s what you get when you go to Canada. A safe place to live, amongst people who have strong values and ambition.
So if you’re thinking of emigrating to Canada from the UK read on and discover more of the reasons why people choose to move to this fascinating and forward-thinking country.
1. It’s an absolutely stunning place
Words can’t really do justice to the beautiful Canadian scenery. Vast, sweeping and unspoiled there are great swathes of land which are virtually untouched by human feet.
It’s massive…and this means that when you want to “get away from it all” you really can! From forests to lakes and mountains, the landscape is varied and gorgeous.
2. Overall quality of life
Canada is well known for its high standard of living combined with the quality of life. Not only has it got the right balance between work and play, but also the perfect environment to enjoy both.
Canadians value their downtime and that’s reflected in the number of public holidays and in the more relaxed working hours enjoyed by most residents. You can really feel more alive living in Canada thanks to the emphasis which is placed on relaxation.
3. Spacious and beautiful properties
Canadian houses tend to be much larger than their UK counterparts. This is of course due in part to the fact that there’s a lot more space on offer. You will find that even the average family home feels a lot more spacious, and having more room makes it easier for families to get on well!
4. Great job opportunities
Under the Federal Skilled Workers programme, there are currently 347 occupations that can qualify you for fast track entry. They cover a huge variety of occupations including medical, engineering, management, construction and more. So check out the latest list to see if your skill is listed.
Canada’s economy is growing, and growth inspires more need which opens up all sorts of opportunities for all kinds of professions.
But not only are there great opportunities, Canada’s laid back and relaxed style means that there is less of the stress you might have been used to in your home country.
5. Family friendly
Canada is really built for families. In the suburban streets, there’s a feeling of safety and togetherness with lots of community events such as barbecues and festivals catering to families with kids.
No matter whether it’s playing outdoors, education, places to visit, eating out, a positive environment or future opportunities – Canada offers it all.
6. Outdoor lifestyle
During the warmer months, it is possible to live most of your life outside in Canada. BBQs, sporting events, picnics, hikes…the list of outdoor activities you can do for free or very cheaply is huge. Most Canadian children spend a lot of their childhood outside playing.
7. The best of modern metropolitan living
Cities in Canada are modern, smart stylish and clean – a big attraction for many migrants who, whilst they may enjoy the great outdoors, also like urban convenience! Canada’s cities are spacious, well designed and easy to get around.
You can easily live in a large suburban house and commute to work. As in any country, whilst it’s true that the biggest cities, such as Toronto and Vancouver, may be crowded and expensive, you don’t have to go far outside the city centre to find a comfortable and affordable lifestyle.
8. Familiar culture and language
This ranks highly for most people asking themselves “Why live in Canada?” Most people want to be around others who speak the same language, so for British expats Canada is a great choice.
Although over the years Canada has developed its own identity and culture, much will be familiar and welcoming to both British and Americans alike.
9. Free health care
Similar to the UK’s NHS, Canada’s Medicare system offers free basic health care to everyone, based on need rather than the ability to pay. It’s paid for by Canadian citizens pitching in towards the system via taxes.
This makes it accessible to all and that’s a big weight off the minds of most ordinary working Canadians and good news for British migrants used to the benefits of a free state health service!
10. Tolerant and open minded
It is probably no surprise that Canada was ranked number 1 in the world for tolerance in the HSBC Expat Explorer Survey.
Renowned for being one of the most open-minded countries around, Canada has been allowing same-sex marriage since 2005, whilst other countries are only now just now ushering it in!
This is great news if you’re immigrating to Canada. There are many migrants and Canadians who are welcoming no matter what your race, gender or culture.
