Relocating from Australia to Canada is an exciting venture filled with new opportunities, landscapes, and cultural experiences. Whether you are seeking adventure, employment, or a change in lifestyle, Canada has much to offer. From the stunning Rocky Mountains and vibrant city life to the friendly and diverse communities, Canada promises a rich and fulfilling experience for newcomers.
Australia, often referred to as "Down Under" due to its location in the Southern Hemisphere, offers a stark contrast to Canada, known as the "Great White North." This nickname for Canada stems from its vast northern territories, often covered in snow and ice, highlighting the country's cold climate and extensive wilderness. Moving from the sunny beaches and arid outback of Australia to Canada's snowy landscapes and lush forests presents both challenges and exciting opportunities for discovery.
However, moving to a new country involves thorough preparation and understanding of various aspects such as visa requirements, climate adjustments, healthcare systems, financial considerations, currency exchange, and cultural integration. This comprehensive guide aims to help you navigate these crucial elements, ensuring a smooth transition and successful settlement in your new home.
When moving to Canada from Australia, it is important to understand the visa requirements and immigration policies. Canada has different types of visas and permits depending on the purpose of your move, such as work, study, or permanent residency through the Express Entry system. Research and familiarise yourself with the options available to you.
Consult the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for up-to-date information on visa requirements and application procedures. It is advisable to start the application process well in advance to allow for any potential delays or additional documentation requirements.
Consider seeking professional assistance from immigration consultants or lawyers who specialise in Canadian immigration to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
Canada is known for its diverse climate, ranging from mild temperatures in the south to extremely cold winters in the northern regions. It is important to research and prepare for the specific climate of the Canadian province or territory you are moving to.
Canada’s climate is notably different from Australia’s, with four distinct seasons and colder winters. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare:
Australia and Canada both have high-quality healthcare systems, but there are some key differences to be aware of. Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system known as Medicare, which provides essential medical services to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. As a new resident, you will need to apply for a provincial health card, which grants you access to healthcare services. However, there may be a waiting period before your coverage begins, which varies by province. To cover this gap, it’s wise to have private health insurance upon arrival.
Most medical services, such as visits to family doctors and hospital stays, are covered by provincial health insurance. However, some services, including dental care and prescription medications, may require additional private insurance. Finding a family doctor is an important step once you settle in. You can register with a family doctor through provincial health services or local clinics, ensuring you have a primary healthcare provider for routine medical needs and referrals to specialists. Research and familiarise yourself with the healthcare services available in your province or territory.
Before moving to Canada, it is important to consider the cost of living and employment opportunities. The cost of living can vary significantly depending on the city or region you choose to settle in. Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver tend to be more expensive, while smaller cities and rural areas are more affordable.
Research the average costs of housing, transportation, groceries, utilities, and healthcare in your desired location. This will help you create a realistic budget and plan your finances accordingly.
Explore employment opportunities in your field of expertise. Major industries in Canada include technology, healthcare, finance, and natural resources. Research the job market and the demand for your skills in Canada. Consider networking with professionals in your industry and exploring job search websites to find potential employment opportunities. Understanding the local job market can help you tailor your resume and cover letter to meet Canadian standards, increasing your chances of securing employment.
When moving to Canada from Australia, you will need to consider currency exchange. It is advisable to exchange your Australian dollars for Canadian dollars before or shortly after your arrival in Canada.
Research different options for currency exchange, such as banks, currency exchange services, or online platforms. Compare exchange rates and fees to get the best deal. Managing currency exchange efficiently can save you money during your move from Australia to Canada. Using services like CurrencyFair can help you get competitive exchange rates and lower fees when transferring money from Australian dollars (AUD) to Canadian dollars (CAD). Setting up an account with a reliable currency exchange service and understanding the exchange rate trends can help you maximise your finances. You can sign up for a CurrencyFair profile here or subscribe for currency exchange rate alerts here.
Consider keeping a small amount of cash in Canadian dollars for immediate expenses upon arrival, but also ensure you have access to banking services to manage your finances effectively. Opening a Canadian bank account as soon as possible is advisable. Many banks offer newcomer packages with benefits like free banking for the first year, making it easier to manage your finances and access local services. Having a Canadian bank account also simplifies transactions, bill payments, and salary deposits once you secure employment.
Moving to a new country involves cultural adjustments and community engagement. There are bound to be specific things you will miss from Australia, and we've compiled a list of just 5 examples in our article here. However, Canada is known for its diverse and inclusive society. It is important to familiarise yourself with the local customs and traditions. Adapting to a new culture and community is a significant part of the relocation process. Canadians are known for their politeness and multiculturalism. Understanding local customs and social norms can help you integrate smoothly into Canadian society. For instance, punctuality is highly valued, and it’s customary to apologise frequently as a sign of politeness. Take the time to learn about Canadian culture, history, and values.
Engage with the local community by participating in cultural events, festivals, and community activities. Community engagement is crucial for building a social network and feeling at home in your new environment. Joining local clubs, associations, or volunteer groups can help you connect with others who share your interests. Many cities have expat communities and resources specifically for newcomers, providing support and opportunities to meet fellow Australians or other expats.
Language is another aspect to consider. While English is the primary language in most of Canada, French is also widely spoken, particularly in the province of Quebec. Learning some basic French can be beneficial if you’re moving to a bilingual region, enhancing your ability to communicate and integrate into the local community.
Moving from Australia to Canada is a journey filled with new experiences and opportunities. By understanding visa requirements, preparing for the climate, navigating the healthcare system, managing financial considerations, and embracing cultural adjustments, you can ensure a successful transition to your new life in Canada. Embrace the adventure, explore the diverse landscapes, and enjoy all that the Great White North has to offer. With proper preparation and an open mind, your move from Down Under to the Great White North can be a rewarding and enriching experience.
This information is not to be relied on in making a decision regarding an investment. We strongly recommend that you obtain independent financial advice before making any form of investment or significant financial transaction. This article is purely for general information purposes. Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash