What to Research Before Moving to Canada

Moving to Canada is an exciting adventure. One filled with promise, opportunity, and the chance to build a new life in one of the world’s most welcoming countries. But here’s the truth that many newcomers discover too late: Canada isn’t always what the brochures promise.

Every year, thousands of people arrive with sky-high expectations, only to face unexpected challenges that could have been anticipated with proper research. The difference between those who thrive and those who struggle often comes down to one thing: knowing what to expect before you arrive.

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Canada offers incredible opportunities; world-class healthcare, excellent education, diverse communities, and stunning natural beauty. But it also comes with harsh winters, competitive job markets, high housing costs in major cities, and a cost of living that can shock newcomers.

The key to a smooth transition isn’t avoiding Canada’s challenges, it’s preparing for them. When you understand both the opportunities and the obstacles, you can make informed decisions that set you up for success rather than disappointment.

Essential Areas to Research Before You Move

1. Neighbourhoods and Communities

Not all Canadian cities—or even neighbourhoods within the same city—are created equal. Research:

·       Cost of living variations between and within cities

·       Community demographics and cultural diversity

·       Safety ratings and crime statistics

·       Proximity to essential services (grocery stores, hospitals, schools)

·       Public amenities like parks, libraries, and community centers

·       Newcomer support services available in the area

Pro tip: Join local Facebook groups or online forums to hear from residents about what living in specific neighbourhoods is really like.

2. Job Opportunities and Credential Recognition

This is where many newcomers face their biggest disappointment. Before you move:

·       Research your industry’s job market in your target city

·       Understand credential recognition requirements for your profession (many regulated professions require Canadian certification)

·       Investigate typical salary ranges for your field (they may be lower than you expect)

·       Identify any bridging programs that can help you get Canadian work experience

·       Learn about survival jobs you might need to take initially

·       Network online with professionals in your field already working in Canada

Reality check: Even highly qualified professionals often need to start over or take lower-level positions initially. Plan for this financially and emotionally.

3. Housing Market Reality

Canada’s housing market can be shocking, especially in cities like Toronto and Vancouver. Research:

·       Average rent and purchase prices in your target area

·       Rental requirements (first and last month’s rent, credit checks, references)

·       Vacancy rates and competition for rentals

·       Tenant rights and responsibilities

·       Temporary housing options for when you first arrive

·       Commute times from affordable areas to employment hubs

Important: Many newcomers are surprised by how difficult it is to secure rental housing without Canadian credit history or employment. Have a backup plan.

4. Schools and Education

If you have children, education research is critical:

·       School district ratings and performance

·       Public vs. private school options and costs

·       ESL support programs for children

·       Extracurricular activities and sports programs

·       School registration requirements and timelines

·       Childcare availability and costs (if you have young children)

Note: Public education in Canada is generally excellent, but quality varies significantly by district and neighbourhood.

5. Transportation Options

How you’ll get around matters more than you think:

·       Public transit systems and their reliability

·       Monthly transit costs

·       Driver’s license requirements (you may need to retake tests)

·       Car insurance costs (often shockingly high for newcomers)

·       Winter driving conditions and vehicle requirements

·       Walkability and bike-friendliness of your neighbourhood

Reality check: Public transit in Canadian cities outside Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal is often limited. You may need a car sooner than you think.

6. Weather and Climate

Don’t underestimate the Canadian winter:

·       Average temperatures throughout the year in your target city

·       Snowfall amounts and winter duration

·       Appropriate clothing and gear you’ll need

·       Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and coping strategies

·       Home heating costs in winter

·       How weather affects daily life (commutes, activities, mood)

Pro tip: If you’re from a warm climate, visit Canada in January or February before making your final decision. Winter is no joke.

7. Healthcare System

Canada’s healthcare is excellent but different from what you might expect:

·       Provincial health insurance waiting periods (often 3 months)

·       What’s covered and what’s not (dental, vision, prescriptions often aren’t)

·       Wait times for specialists and procedures

·       How to find a family doctor (there are shortages in many areas)

·       Private insurance options for gaps in coverage

Important: Budget for private health insurance for your first few months and for ongoing dental and vision care.

8. Cost of Living

Beyond housing, research:

·       Grocery costs (food is expensive in Canada)

·       Utilities (heating, electricity, internet, phone)

·       Childcare costs (among the highest in the world)

·       Entertainment and dining out

·       Taxes (federal, provincial, and sales taxes)

·       Banking fees and financial services

Reality check: Your money won’t stretch as far as you think. Build a detailed budget based on Canadian prices, not your home country’s costs.

9. Cultural Adjustment

Research the less tangible aspects:

·       Canadian workplace culture and expectations

·       Social norms and etiquette

·       How to make friends and build community

·       Cultural communities from your home country

·       Newcomer settlement services and support programs

·       Common culture shock experiences and how to cope

Pro tip: Connect with other newcomers from your country who’ve already made the transition. Their insights are invaluable.

10. Legal and Administrative Requirements

Don’t overlook the paperwork:

·       SIN (Social Insurance Number) application process

·       Provincial health card registration

·       Driver’s license exchange or testing requirements

·       Banking requirements for newcomers

·       Tax obligations and filing requirements

·       Bringing pets (if applicable)

Your Settlement Success Depends on Realistic Expectations

The newcomers who settle most successfully in Canada aren’t necessarily the most qualified or the wealthiest, they’re the ones who did their homework. They knew what to expect, prepared accordingly, and weren’t blindsided by challenges that could have been anticipated.

Canada is an incredible country with genuine opportunities for those who come prepared. But it’s not a magic solution to all of life’s problems, and it’s not easy, especially in the first year or two.

Take Action: Start Your Research Today

Don’t let excitement override practicality. Before you make the big move:

1.      Spend at least 3-6 months researching your target city and province

2.      Connect with people already living where you plan to move

3.      Build a realistic budget based on Canadian costs

4.      Create a backup plan for housing and employment

5.      Save more money than you think you’ll need (aim for 6-12 months of expenses)

6.      Prepare emotionally for challenges and culture shock

The more you know before you arrive, the smoother your transition will be. Research isn’t just about gathering information, it’s about setting yourself up for success and protecting your mental health and financial stability during one of life’s biggest transitions.

Ready to Make Your Move the Right Way?

At Crossing Oceans Immigration Services, we don’t just help you with paperwork, we help you prepare for the reality of life in Canada. Our experience working with hundreds of newcomers means we know exactly what you need to research and how to prepare.

Book a consultation today and let’s make sure you’re truly ready for your Canadian journey—the good, the bad, and the ugly.

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