Moving to Canada from India is a big transition for most new immigrants. There are many cultural and societal differences between the two countries. So, it’s important for newcomers to spend some time learning about what you can expect once you arrive.
The more you know about Canada and what to expect, the easier your transition will be. We’ve curated the top things you can expect when moving to Canada from India.
Canada Is Immigration Friendly
The country is actively seeking immigrants to call Canada home. The Government of Canada plans to bring over 1.2 million newcomers to the country as permanent residents by 2024. The country also has dozens of visa and immigration programs to help you enter. Some of the most common are:
- Express Entry System
- Provincial Nominee Programs
- Immigration Pilots
- Family Sponsorship Programs
- Student Visa Programs
Healthcare Is Publicly Funded
As a permanent resident, you will have access to health care benefits. But all types of medical care are not free. There are certain health costs you will have to pay for. For example, you will not have to pay to see a family doctor or visit the emergency room. But, you will have to pay for prescription medication or elective procedures. You can offset these costs by purchasing private health insurance. This may also be offered through your employee benefits program at work.
Continuing Your Career When Moving to Canada from India
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Continuing your career at the same level when you move to Canada from India can be a challenge. Regardless of your professional credentials, they may not be recognized by companies in Canada. So you should carefully research your profession in Canada before you arrive. Because it can take years to get accreditation in Canada, especially if you work in a regulated profession. However, with solid research, you can learn what you require to work in Canada before you arrive. And this can save you time, money, and energy!
You can even take steps to transition your career well in advance of your move. This will help you with your job search when you arrive in Canada. Learn more about the importance of education evaluation and credential recognition before you arrive in Canada.
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Settle in Canada with Confidence and Ease
The Cost of Living Varies Greatly
The city you choose to call your new home can have a significant impact on your cost of living. Cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Ottawa offer many opportunities, but they also have some of the highest cost of living rates in the country. This includes higher rent and housing prices, insurance, and food.
To get a sense of the cost of rental housing in cities across Canada, visit our Rentals for Newcomers site. Here you can get the most up-to-date rental housing costs. Our Rentals for Newcomers site is a practical and easy-to-navigate site to help you make an easier transition to life in Canada when it comes to finding housing! And you can even determine the average cost of rentals in each city. This is helpful since rental prices change often.
Proving Your Driving Skills When You Move to Canada
Driver’s licencing is a provincial jurisdiction. No province in Canada currently has a driver’s licence exchange program with India. Driving laws and rules are very different in Canada compared to India. Therefore, you will have to get a Canadian driver’s licence when you move to Canada from India. You will have to pass all licencing requirements in the province you reside in – including a knowledge and road test.
Prepare for the Seasons When Moving to Canada from India
Canada experiences all four seasons – spring, summer, fall, and winter. The temperatures can vary significantly from up to 40 C and humid in the summer to frigid and more than -30 C with the windchill in the winter. Weather can go up and down and be very unpredictable at times. You will need clothing for all seasons. When you move to Canada from India, you’ll have to prepare to dress for winter.
You Will Pay Tax on Everything
Canada is not only a more expensive place to live than in India, but you will also have to pay tax on almost everything you buy. Taxes are used to fund many public programs in Canada. While you do not pay tax on essential food items, you will pay tax on clothing, consumer goods, energy, cars, and even your property. The tax rates vary by province.
Canada is Culturally Diverse
Canada is one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world. It’s just one of the many reasons immigrants choose to come to Canada. People from all over the world of different ethnic origins, creeds, and religions call Canada home. It is a huge part of Canadian identity. And there are large Indian communities in many cities across the country. These communities can help you ease your transition.
It’s important to research as much as possible about Canada before you arrive. Despite what you may read, it will not quite be like your real-life experience. Use the above information to temper your expectations about what it is like to move to Canada. The more you know, the easier it will be to settle in Canada!
Looking for more information about living in Canada? Visit our resource page for free webinars, information, resources and more. We’ll help you to settle in Canada with confidence and ease!
