Why Move to Canada from the UK? [Infographic]
Download PDFCanada is a desirable place for people to relocate, not least due to its great standard of living, exceptional scenery, and friendly, welcoming attitude to immigrants. Its shared language and close ties to the UK make it a perfect new destination, without seeming entirely foreign. The stats support this too, with Canada coming in the top five places that Brits emigrate to.
With the result of Brexit last year, there has only been an increase in interest for jetting off for a fresh start in Canada. Similarly to the phenomenon seen from Americans when Trump was elected, once the ‘leave’ referendum result came in, there was a huge spike in internet traffic of disillusioned Brits searching for ‘move to Canada’. The beautiful country has the appeal of a liberal government, led by the charismatic Justin Trudeau who has gained worldwide popularity.
Let’s take a look at some more information about Canada to delve into the reasons behind its popularity with British expats.
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Stats
Canada is one of the largest countries in the world, coming in second only to Russia. Despite its expansive size, it’s not heavily populated, meaning much of the landmass is made up of natural spaces and unspoilt wilderness. To contrast Canada with Great Britain:
Canada
- Surface area: 3.8m square miles
- Population: 35.1 million
- Population density (people per square mile): 10
UK
- Surface area: 93k square miles
- Population: 65.6 million
- Population density (people per square mile): 702
Top 10 reasons to move to Canada
Safety
Canada is a very safe place to live with low crime rates, strong communities and high self-reported feelings of safety combining with political stability. In fact, the OECD Better Life Index last rated Canada as 9/10 for safety.
Education
The Canadian education system is excellent, with top schooling available to kids of all backgrounds. The Canadian government spends a lot on education, with the result being strong schools and many world-class institutions.
Diversity
Canada is a diverse country and is well-known for being welcoming to its large immigrant population. Around 20% of the country’s inhabitants were born elsewhere and this diversity helps make for a tolerant and accepting place to relocate.
Freedom
Canada is a liberal, democratic country which provides its citizens with great levels of freedom and rights. Under various studies, including the Cato Institute’s Human Freedom Index, Canada is rated as a top country in terms of personal, civil and economic freedom.
Spectacular scenery
The sheer size of Canada allows an abundance of spectacular scenery. For those who love the great outdoors, there is masses to see including glaciers, coastline, lakes, the Northern Lights, mountains and forests. In all this natural splendour, there is plenty of wildlife too – from bears to whales – if you’re lucky enough to spot it.
Healthcare
Canada, like the UK, offers free healthcare to its citizens and permanent residents. The Canadian healthcare system is of good quality and is one of the most open and fair in the world.
Standard of living
As a combined result of many other factors on this list and more, the standard of living and quality of life in Canada is world class. A 2016 study from Social Progress Imperative ranked Canada second in the world for quality of life.
Opportunities
There is a good jobs market in Canada, supported by a stable economy and banking system. There are a great many opportunities available, from skilled workers to high-demand labourers.
Culture
Canada has a rich and interesting cultural history, from the aboriginal First Nations, to French and British colonisation and the modern multi-cultural mosaic that influences and exists today. With the international success of many Canadian musicians and comedians, thriving national interest in sports, and several impressive metropolises, Canadian culture has a lot to offer.
Nice people
Canadians are renowned for being polite and friendly which makes for a welcoming and likable nation. Something as simple as affable, good-humoured people can really make Cananda feel like a home-from-home for expats.
Best cities to move to in Canada
Ottawa, Ontario
Ottawa is Canada’s capital city and is a top choice for relocating, often leading rankings of best places to live. The city has a high average income, likely due to plentiful skilled professional job opportunities and a highly educated population. Overall, Ottawa is a clean, laid-back and diverse place to live.
St Albert, Alberta
If big city living isn’t your cup of tea, St Albert is a great alternative. St Albert has been ranked as the best place in Canada to raise children and is a healthy city, likely due to its beautiful setting which can only encourage outdoor pursuits. This is a safe and prosperous city which is still closeby to Edmonton, capital of Alberta.
Gatineau, Quebec
Gatineau is a thriving city just across the river and province border from Ottawa. Many people work in Ottawa but live in Gatineau due to its cheaper living costs and family-friendly feel. Quebec is a beautiful province and the only one with French as its official language, so being bilingual is a big advantage.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is a popular, cosmopolitan city which is consistently ranked as a top city worldwide for quality of life and livability. A cultural hub with a large and diverse population, Vancouver’s higher living costs don’t deter. The scenic coastal city boasts beautiful mountain, ocean and parkland surroundings as well as a milder Canadian climate.
Regina, Saskatchewan
Regina – the capital of Saskatchewan province – is a very affordable place to move, much more so than many other major Canadian cities. The city is a commercial and cultural hub for the province and there are growing job opportunities, particularly in energy, natural gas and agriculture. The seasons can, however, be quite extreme.
Saanich, British Columbia
Saanich is a district in breathtaking British Columbia with a high immigrant population. It has a diverse and highly skilled workforce and a variety of opportunities for work; unemployment is low here. The picturesque beaches and coast with forests and parks inland are a big draw which, for many, offset the relatively high cost of living.
If you are moving to Canada, you will require the services of a professional removals company to help you on your way. Britannia Sandersteads is a reputable and experienced removals firm who can provide a careful and efficient service for transporting your belongings to your new home. With over 30 years of international removals experience and full insurance backing, you can rest assured your belongings in good hands. Get in touch to discuss your requirements with our helpful team.