Trek the Pyrenees with Fellow Expats 

Australians wishing to move to Canada must consider a number of crucial relocation steps before moving to the Great White North. Australian expats will find that they will quickly feel at home as many major cities between the two countries are comparable.

Australians moving to Canada might be pleased to learn that the two commonwealth countries are similar in several aspects, making culture shock less likely. Expats will have to think about setting up a bank account in the country and finding great schooling for their kids. An advantage for Australian expats and their children is that English is one of Canada’s two official languages (French being the other).

Visas and Work Permits

If you are an Australian wishing to come to Canada for work purposes, you will require a work permit. However, do not be surprised if jobs in Canada are a little bit harder to come by than in Australia. It is estimated that by the year 2030, some 14.7 million Canadian workers under the age of 34 will face job displacement.

The good news for Australians moving to the Great White North is that renting a home in Canada is cheaper than Down Under. Renting is the most sensible choice for many expats, particularly in pricier cities like Toronto and Vancouver, as it is much more economical. For Australians looking for a more affordable city, Windsor (Ontario) has one of the lowest rental rates in all of Canada. Housing will likely be your biggest expense in the country. 

While there are various cultural similarities between Australia and Canada, in some circumstances, Australian expats will be unapologetically treated as foreigners. This is most evident within Canada’s healthcare system, which is only open to the country’s citizens and permanent residents. Therefore, Australian expats will want to ensure they have health insurance before relocating to Canada, and avoid paying expensive healthcare fees in the event of a medical emergency. 

Are you planning to relocate internationally? If you’ve never moved abroad, the process will be overwhelming. If you have, you know the challenges that lie ahead. Whatever stage you’re at, InterNations can help you with comprehensive guides and a community of experienced expats who are happy to help and share their knowledge.

Housing and Healthcare

When thinking about what to pack when moving to Canada from Australia, consider that Canadian weather is noticeably cooler than Down Under, so pick your wardrobe wisely. You will be obligated to fill out a Personal Effects Accounting Document (B4) form for the items you bring with you. It would be wise to create a detailed inventory for the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), with prices included, of all the goods you are moving into the country with.

Relocating

Learn More about Canada

The largest international community for people who live abroad with 4 million members, offering a range of online and in-person events.

The largest international community for people who live abroad, offering a range of online and in-person events and networking opportunities.