Moving to Canada from India: What You Can Expect

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, newcomers need to learn what to expect upon your arrival. The more you know about Canada and what to expect, the easier your transition will be. We’ve identified 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 about 765,000 thousand newcomers to the country as permanent residents by 2026.

The country also has dozens of visa and immigration programs to help you enter. Some of the most common are:

• Express Entry

• 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 not all medical services are free. There are certain health costs you will have to pay for. For example, while you don’t have to pay to see a family doctor, you do have to pay for prescription medication or elective procedures. You can offset these costs by buying private health insurance. Your employer may offer additional health insurance through your employee benefits program at work. 

Continuing Your Career When Moving to Canada from India

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. It can take years to get accreditation in Canada, especially if you work in a regulated profession. However, with 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 credential recognition before you arrive in Canada.

Pre Arrival Checklist to Guide Your Move

Moving to Canada is a major life decision that is exciting, full of opportunity, and, let’s be honest, a little overwhelming. Whether you’re immigrating alone, with a partner, or your entire family, there’s a lot to plan before boarding your flight. That’s why we created the Canadian Pre-Arrival Checklist Guide. It’s your step-by-step companion to prepare for life in Canada. From organizing your documents and opening a bank account to packing smart and finding a place to live, we’ve laid it all out clearly by timeline: 3 months, 2 months, and 1 month before your move.

GET FREE GUIDE

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, and Vancover offer many opportunities, but they also have some of the highest cost of living in Canada. 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 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 wear the right type of clothing for the seasons.

Paying taxes in Canada

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 like, Surrey, British Columbia, and Brampton, Ontario. These communities can help you ease your transition. These cities are also know for their exciting Diwali celebrations each year.

It’s important to research 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!

WRITTEN BY

Corinna Frattini

Senior Editor and Content Director, Prepare for Canada

Corinna researches and writes content to help newcomers make informed decisions about housing, employment, banking, and aspects of settling in Canada. With a background in human resources and leadership development, her articles focus on how newcomers can continue their careers in Canada. Her writing combines research, practical guidance, and clear language to support newcomers on their journey.

© Prepare for Canada 2025