Canada is one of the most popular destinations for British expats, offering beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, and excellent quality of life. But relocating overseas can be complex, especially when it comes to moving your household. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about moving to Canada — and show how Advance Moves can make the process stress-free.
👉 Plan your move today with Advance Moves: Moving to Canada
Step 1: Decide Your Visa or Residency Route
Before moving, you’ll need the right visa to live, work, or retire in Canada. Options include:
- Work Visa: If you have a job offer in Canada.
- Permanent Residency: Through Express Entry programs, provincial nominee programs, or family sponsorship.
- Study Permit: For students, which can sometimes lead to work permits.
- Retirement & Other Permits: Certain provinces have specific programs for retirees.
It’s essential to research eligibility and apply well in advance, as processing times vary.
Step 2: Research Your Destination
Canada is vast, and each city has its own lifestyle, cost of living, and job opportunities:
- Toronto: Bustling urban life, excellent job market, higher living costs.
- Vancouver: Coastal city with outdoor lifestyle, pricey housing, strong expat community.
- Montreal: French-English culture, affordable living, vibrant arts and food scene.
- Calgary: Affordable housing, close to the Rockies, quieter lifestyle.
- Ottawa: Capital city with excellent public services and family-friendly neighborhoods.
Choosing the right city will make your transition smoother.
Step 3: Plan Your Household Move
Advance Moves specialises in UK-to-Canada household removals. Key services include:
- Full Packing Services: Protecting fragile items, furniture, and valuables.
- Transport: Safe shipping by sea or air.
- Customs Clearance: Handling documentation and import regulations.
- Door-to-Door Delivery: From your UK home directly to your Canadian residence.
Even large households are handled efficiently, ensuring peace of mind.
Step 4: Organise Essential Services
Before you arrive, plan for practical necessities:
- Healthcare: Register for provincial health coverage. Consider private insurance for added protection.
- Banking: Open a Canadian bank account to manage bills and salaries.
- Schools: Enrol children in public or private schools depending on your location.
- Utilities & Internet: Arrange setup in advance to make your new home comfortable.
Step 5: Moving Day and Arrival
On moving day:
- Inventory Your Belongings: Keep a detailed list for customs and insurance purposes.
- Pack Essentials Separately: Include important documents, basic clothing, and personal items.
- Track Your Shipment: Advance Moves provides updates on your household items during transit.
- Settle In Quickly: Unpack essential items first to create a comfortable living space.
Step 6: Adjusting to Life in Canada
- Weather: Prepare for Canadian winters with suitable clothing and home insulation.
- Community: Join local expat groups, clubs, and social activities.
- Transport: Learn public transit options or consider driving if you live in smaller towns.
- Culture: Explore local cuisine, festivals, and recreational activities to integrate smoothly.
Why Choose Advance Moves
Relocating internationally is complicated, but Advance Moves makes it simple:
- Expert Handling: All household sizes, fully packed, shipped, and delivered safely.
- Customs & Documentation: Full support for UK-to-Canada moves.
- Peace of Mind: Focus on settling in while we handle the logistics.
👉 Get a quote and plan your move today: Moving to Canada
Final Thoughts
Moving to Canada as a UK expat is a life-changing decision, but with careful planning and professional support, it can be smooth and stress-free. From visas and city choice to household removals and settling in, Advance Moves ensures every step of your journey is handled with care.