Moving to Canada from the United Kingdom
If you’re considering a relocation from the UK to Canada, or already on your way, this guide is for you.
Discover everything you need to know for every part of the process. From the first step of choosing an immigration pathway, all the way to moving your furniture, settling in, and finding specific information about your region.
UK to Canada Immigration Options
The most common pathway:
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Express Entry
This system manages several immigration programs for skilled workers, based on a points system.
If you already have family in Canada:
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Family Sponsorship
Canadian citizens can sponsor their relatives and help bring them to Canada to live, study, and work.
If you’re relocating to a specific region, or open to:
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Provincial Nominees
Get nominated to live in a specific province or territory. Each province has its own programs and requirements.
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Atlantic Immigration Program
Apply to work and live in 1 of the 4 Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador.
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Quebec-selected skilled workers
Apply to work and live in the province of Quebec.
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Rural community immigration pilots
Apply to work and settle in 1 of 14 rural communities in need of specific skilled workers.
If you have a specific skill or industry:
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Caregivers
Specific immigration pathway for caregivers such as home care workers.
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Start-up visa
An immigration pathway for immigrant entrepreneurs who have the skills to build businesses in Canada.
If you speak French or want to study in French:
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Francophone Mobility work permit
For French speakers who want to live and work outside of Quebec.
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Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot
For French-speaking students who want to study at designated learning institutions.
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Francophone community immigration pilot
Apply to work and settle in 1 of 6 Francophone communities in need of specific skilled workers.
Work with a relocation expert
New Roots Relocation can help you choose the best pathway and support your relocation from the UK to Canada with our bespoke services.
UK to Canada Moving Logistics
Canada and the UK are separated by the Atlantic Ocean, so getting your belongings to your new home will require a bit of planning. The distance to Canada’s East Coast is at least 3,000 kilometres, or more than 7,000 kilometres if you’re headed to the West Coast!
Here’s what we recommend:
→ Start by determining your budget for moving costs.
→ Then, make an inventory or at least get a sense of what items you’ll need to move. Write down a general list of items (especially bigger items like furniture)
→ From there, you can acquire quotes from different moving companies, narrow down your options, and compare.
The best option depends on your specific situation, and may even be a combination of these 3 moving methods! Experienced relocation experts can help you make the right decision, find trusted companies to work with, and keep costs as low as possible.
Air Freight
Air freight is generally the fastest way to get things from point A to point B, but it also tends to be expensive. For your move from the UK to Canada, air freight is likely best for lighter/smaller belongings, or to get your most important items to Canada as fast as possible.
Sea Freight
If you have a large amount of belongings, shipping them by sea freight container is another option. You can load the container with everything you’re taking, big and small. While it’s generally the most cost-effective option, it does take time. Containers from the UK to Canada usually take between 1-3 weeks to arrive.
Buying New
You may also consider buying new items upon your arrival in Canada instead of bringing everything with you across the Atlantic. This can help you save big on shipping costs and travel a bit lighter.
For big items like furniture, bedding, and other household items that are heavy and expensive to ship, this is a great option.
Other Considerations & Tips
Immigration and moving logistics are two of the biggest elements of any relocation, but there are plenty of other considerations for before, during, and after your move.
For UK citizens moving to Canada, here are a few top tips and reminders from New Roots Relocation’s experts:
Banking
You can open a Canadian chequing account even before arrival. Usually, you will need your U.K. Passport, proof of Canadian address, and relevant job offer or visa information.
Your Canadian credit file is separate from your U.K. file, so it’s important to start working on your new score right away. Applying for a Canadian credit card as soon as possible is a good idea.
Your first tax season may be difficult to navigate, so be sure to start early. You’ll likely have to file twice: a Canadian T1 each April 30 and a U.K. Self-Assessment if you still have U.K. income (rental, dividends, pensions).
There are many intricacies of international tax planning that you may need an expert to help with. For instance, keep in mind that Canadian Tax Free Savings Accounts are not tax-free in the U.K., and vice-versa with U.K. ISA accounts.
Consider holding both GBP and CAD for some time, to help simplify transfers and handle swings in the exchange rate while you get settled in. Considering that GBP is also a stronger currency compared to the Canadian Dollar, it’s beneficial to hold onto it.
Healthcare
The NHS does not reimburse healthcare abroad, and most Canadian provinces impose a waiting period for coverage to kick in. Stay safe by applying for your provincial health card as soon as possible, and buying travel or supplemental coverage for the waiting period.
It’s always a good idea to bring relevant health records to help inform your new Canadian healthcare providers, and this is especially important if you have any prescriptions or ongoing health issues. If you can, opt for your yearly check-up right before moving. This way, you can request files and address any immediate issues.
Keep in mind that Canada’s free health insurance doesn’t cover dental, vision, and many prescriptions. You can consider opting for additional coverage with your workplace, or purchasing privately from providers like CAA, Blue Cross, or Manulife.
Settling In
Moving from the U.K. to Canada likely won’t come with any major “culture shock”, but it’s still important to expect an adjustment period and give yourself time to get settled.
Community is crucial: We highly recommend looking for local clubs, groups, or even online forums to connect with other expats! For example, British Expats In Canada is a Facebook group that’s easy to get started with.
Many UK expats are surprised by the added sales taxes in Canada, so keep a look out for surprise fees! In the UK, prices displayed generally already include the VAT. In Canada, the price you see is exclusive of federal and provincial sales taxes, so be ready to see a different number when you’re checking out.
Getting to Know Your New Home
Explore our collection of resources for a few of Canada’s top cities!
Ready to embark on your journey to Canada from the UK?
Let us be your trusted guide, starting with a short consultation to help us understand your unique relocation needs.