Moving to Canada is a dream for many Americans. With its high standard of living, excellent healthcare system, and abundant opportunities for skilled workers and families, Canada offers a welcoming environment that’s just a border away.
At Remitly, we understand there’s a lot more to moving to another country than just packing your bags and booking a one-way flight. That’s why we created this detailed guide. We’ll walk you through everything from picking the right province or city to settle in, to understanding Canada’s immigration options and finding your rhythm in a new place.
Where should you live in Canada?
Canada isn’t just big—it’s huge. The second-largest country in the world offers plenty of options for settling down. But your ideal Canadian home will depend on what matters most to you: career opportunities, cost of living, climate, language, or even the kind of community you want to be part of.
Favorite cities among newcomers
From oceanfront hamlets to mountain towns, bustling metros and laid-back suburbs, here are some of the most popular cities in Canada for immigrants:
- Toronto, Ontario: Canada’s largest city is a busy, multicultural hub where you’ll hear dozens of languages just walking down the street. It’s a great place if you’re looking for opportunities in finance, tech, education, or healthcare. Rent can be high, but a strong job market balances this out.
- Vancouver, British Columbia: If you’re drawn to mountains, beaches, and mild winters, Vancouver might win you over. The tech scene is growing fast, and creative industries thrive here too. It’s also one of the priciest cities in Canada, so run the numbers if you’re thinking about calling it home.
- Montreal, Quebec: This one’s perfect if you’re bilingual or willing to learn some French. Montreal is artsy and more affordable compared to Toronto and Vancouver. It’s a city that blends European charm with North American energy.
- Calgary, Alberta: With lower living costs and no provincial sales tax, Calgary can be a great choice financially. It’s known for its energy sector, but you’ll also find growing opportunities in tech, trades, and engineering. Plus, if you love wide open spaces and proximity to the Rockies, this city might be calling your name.
English, French, or both?
Canada has two official languages: English and French. Depending on the city you choose, one may be more common than the other, meaning it could affect your job search, community interactions, and even government paperwork.
- English-speaking regions: Most of the country speaks English, particularly provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia.
- French-speaking regions: Quebec is predominantly French-speaking. You’ll need at least conversational French for many jobs there.
- Bilingual benefits: If you already speak both languages or are open to learning, living in Quebec or working in bilingual territories can open more doors.
How much will it cost to live there?
The cost of living varies a lot between Canadian cities, so it’s worth doing your homework. Big urban areas like Toronto and Vancouver tend to come with higher prices, but they usually offer more job options.
- Rent: Tools like Numbeo can help you compare average costs across cities.
- Transportation: Cities like Montreal and Toronto have great public transit, while others may require a car.
- Daily expenses: Include groceries, childcare, and entertainment in your budget, too.
What about the job market?
Where you live should line up with where you can work.
- Tech and finance: Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal
- Healthcare and education: Most major cities
- Trades and engineering: Calgary, Edmonton, and other cities in Alberta and Saskatchewan
- Arts and media: Montreal and Vancouver
Pro tip: Before you pick a city, check out local job boards to see what’s available in your field and where your skills are in high demand.
Immigration paperwork isn’t anyone’s idea of fun. But understanding your options upfront can save you time, stress, and confusion. Canada offers several immigration pathways depending on your unique profile and goals.
How to start with a temporary stay
If you’re not quite ready to pursue permanent residency, many people start with a temporary visa and transition later.
- Work permits: If you already have a job offer from a Canadian employer, you may be eligible for a work permit. Some are tied to a specific employer, while others, called open work permits, give you more flexibility to switch jobs once you’re in Canada. These can be a great way to get your foot in the door and gain Canadian work experience.
- Study permits: Canada is home to globally recognized universities and colleges. A study permit allows you to work part-time while in school, and you may qualify for a post-graduation work permit that can lead to permanent residency.
Permanent residency options
If you plan to build a life in Canada, looking into permanent residency is a good idea. It gives you access to more rights and services, and it’s a major step toward Canadian citizenship.
- Express Entry: This is Canada’s most widely used immigration program for skilled workers, and it relies on a points-based system. Your score, called a CRS score, is based on factors like age, work experience, education, and language skills. There are three streams, namely the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Each province in Canada has its own immigration needs, and they can nominate individuals who have the skills they’re looking for. If you already know which province you want to live in, this can be a faster and more targeted way to get permanent residency.
- Family sponsorship: Do you have a close relative who’s already a Canadian citizen or permanent resident? They might be able to sponsor your move. This option is available for spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, parents, and even grandparents.
What do you need to apply?
While the exact documents vary depending on the program, there are a few things almost everyone will need. First, you must prove your language skills, usually by taking a test like the IELTS or CELPIP for English, or the TEF if you’re more comfortable speaking French.
You’ll also need an Education Credential Assessment (ECA), which simply confirms that your foreign degrees or diplomas meet Canadian standards.
Third, like most countries, Canada asks for a basic health check and a police certificate to ensure you’re in good health and have a clean record.
What does it cost, and how long will it take?
Application fees for permanent residency generally fall around 1,500 CAD per adult. On top of that, you’ll need to budget for language tests, the ECA, medical exams, biometrics, and other processing fees.
The timeline will depend on the immigration program and your personal situation. Complete and high-scoring Express Entry applications can be processed in as little as six months. However, expect the process to take anywhere from six months to over a year from start to finish.
Many newcomers choose to work with licensed immigration consultants or lawyers to improve their chances. But Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) also offers free resources that walk you through the process step by step.
Settling into life in Canada
From finding a place to live to figuring out public transit or your new job routine, life for immigrants in Canada might feel a little unfamiliar at first. But don’t worry—there are ways to make the process much smoother than you might think.
Find a place to live
Your first Canadian address is the launchpad for everything else, including banking, healthcare, school enrollment, and more.
Start by searching rental sites like Rentals.ca, 4Rent, and Rental Seeker. Local Facebook groups can be helpful, too.
Many cities offer newcomer housing services to help you understand leases and your rights as a tenant. And be ready to provide documents like proof of income or references. If you’re new and don’t have these yet, honest communication with landlords goes a long way.
Pro tip: Rent usually doesn’t include utilities, so ask what’s covered before signing a lease.
Apply for your health card
Canada’s healthcare system is publicly funded through Medicare, but it’s managed by each province or territory. That means you’ll need to register for coverage after you arrive.
Visit your regional health website to apply for a health card as soon as you have a local address. Some provinces, like Ontario, have a waiting period before public coverage starts. During that waiting period, you can get private health insurance for new immigrants from brokers or insurers. This will ensure you’re covered right away.
Open a bank account in Canada
Setting up a bank account early helps you get paid, take care of rent, and start building financial stability. Canada’s “Big Six” online banks offer newcomer accounts with low fees and perks like credit cards for first-timers.
To open an account, you’ll need your passport, immigration documents, and proof of Canadian address. Once you’re set up, consider building credit to make it easier to access things like rent, future mortgages, or loans.
Figure out transportation
Your commute and mobility will depend heavily on where you live. Big cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have excellent public transportation systems featuring subways, buses, and commuter trains. In smaller towns or rural areas, owning a car may be more practical or even necessary.
If you plan to drive, you may be able to exchange your US driver’s license for a Canadian one, depending on the province. If not, you might need to pass a written test, vision test, or road test.
Enroll kids in school
Canada has a strong public education system. Luckily, enrolling your child is straightforward once you’ve settled. School is free and mandatory from around age 5 to 18, and most children attend neighborhood schools based on their address.
Provinces also offer support for English or French language learners, as well as programs to help kids transition smoothly into a new school system.
Learn the work culture
If you’re looking to join the workforce, there are a few things to keep in mind about workplace norms:
- Punctuality is expected. Being on time shows reliability and respect.
- Politeness and professionalism matter. Clear, respectful communication is key.
- Dress codes vary. Business casual is common in many sectors, but always check your industry norms.
- Networking really helps to access the hidden job market. LinkedIn is widely used, and many newcomer support agencies offer job fairs, résumé workshops, and interview prep.
What if you’re in a regulated profession like medicine, teaching, or engineering? You might need to have your credentials assessed or complete local licensing requirements before being legally allowed to work in Canada.
Get to know your new community
It can take time to feel at home, but building connections makes a big difference. There are some things to help you settle in and socialize:
- Visit local libraries and community centers for free classes, events, and newcomer services.
- Volunteering is a great way to meet people and give back.
- Join cultural or hobby groups, like language exchange meetups or sports clubs; there’s something for everyone.
Even a few friendly conversations at your local café or neighborhood park can go a long way toward making Canada feel like home.
Tips to integrate like a local
Settling into your new home isn’t just about paperwork or job hunting. It’s also about getting to know the rhythm of everyday life, from celebrating local holidays to understanding the weather (spoiler: yes, it gets cold).
Holidays and local traditions
Canada’s public holidays and cultural traditions give you a glimpse into local life.
- Canada Day (July 1): A big celebration of the country’s birthday, with fireworks, parades, and community events.
- Thanksgiving (second Monday in October): Similar to the US version but celebrated earlier, often with a cozy turkey dinner and time with family.
- Victoria Day (May): Kicks off the summer season with a mandatory long weekend and symbolic celebrations.
- National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21): A time to recognize and honor the unique contributions of Indigenous peoples and communities across Canada.
What’s the weather like?
Canada’s weather definitely keeps things interesting. In places like Toronto and Montreal, winters are snowy and cold, while Vancouver tends to get more rain than snow. Calgary might even throw in a few surprising warm days thanks to something locals call “Chinooks.”
It might sound intense, but with a good coat, warm boots, and some cozy gloves, you’ll be just fine. Canadians take it all in stride.
When summer rolls around, everything shifts. The days get longer, patios fill up, and festivals and farmers’ markets get in full swing. It’s a great time to explore your new home and enjoy the outdoors.
A place where everyone belongs
One of the first things newcomers notice about Canada is how diverse it is. In cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, it’s completely normal to hear several languages on the same street.
Canada embraces multiculturalism in a real, everyday way—not just in policies, but in people’s attitudes. Whether you’re looking to connect with others who share your background or want to meet people from all over the world, you’ll find a community that feels familiar and welcoming.
Common challenges and how to handle them
Every newcomer runs into a few bumps along the way. Whether it’s adjusting to the weather or finding your footing in a new language, here are some helpful solutions.
- Language barriers: Even if you speak English or French, understanding local slang or fast conversations can take time. Free or low-cost language classes are a great way to improve and meet new people, too.
- Feeling homesick: Missing home is totally normal, especially in the first few months. Regular calls, messages, or joining community events can help you feel more connected.
- Harsh winters: If you’re not used to snow and freezing temperatures, winter can feel intense at first. Invest in warm gear and don’t be shy about asking your neighbors for tips.
- Navigating unfamiliar systems: Processes like signing up for healthcare or understanding your lease can feel overwhelming. Take it step by step, and use newcomer guides or community resources whenever you need support.
- Making friends as an adult: It’s not always easy to build a social circle from scratch, particularly in a new place. Joining clubs, classes, or even chatting with your neighbor can open doors.
Make the transition easier
Moving to Canada in 2025 is a significant life decision filled with exciting opportunities and new beginnings. To make the transition easier:
- Expect the first few months to feel a bit off; that’s normal.
- Give yourself permission to rest, not just get things done.
- Say yes to coffee chats, community events, or local meetups.
- Ask questions, even the ones that feel obvious. People are usually happy to help.
- Check out available newcomer resources to help you settle in more confidently.
- Take pride in the small wins, like your first successful grocery trip or navigating the transit system without Google Maps.
With the right support, your move to this new country will be a breeze. Canada is waiting to welcome you—start your new chapter today!
FAQs
What’s the easiest way to immigrate to Canada in 2025?
Express Entry is often the fastest route for skilled workers, but Provincial Nominee Programs are great options if you have ties to a specific province.
How much does it cost to move to Canada?
Each immigration program comes with its own fees and requirements. However, application fees for permanent residency are generally around 1,500 CAD per adult.
Can I work in Canada while waiting for permanent residency?
You can work if you already have a valid work or study permit with work privileges, but not while waiting for authorization.
How long does the Express Entry process usually take?
Once you submit a complete application, processing typically takes between 6 and 12 months.
Do I need a job offer to move to Canada?
A job offer isn’t required for Express Entry, but it can boost your score and open other immigration pathways.