🇨🇦Ready to start a new adventure across the Channel? If you’re planning a move to Canada, this guide will give you all the practical steps, updated costs, and streamlined advice you need for a smooth transition.
What should I know about living in Canada at a glance?
- Flag: 🇨🇦
- Population: 41.5 million
- Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
- Average salary: between CAD 62,000 and CAD 68,000 per year
- Live EUR ←→ Dollar: Use dynamic currency converters for the latest exchange rates (Statistics Canada, 2025 ; Bank of Canada, 2025 ; XE, 2025 )
Reviewed by Statistics Canada, June 2025; Bank of Canada Monetary Policy Department, last updated in July 2025; XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025.
How much does it cost to move door-to-door to Canada?
The cost of moving to Canada depends on shipment size and transport method. Typical market rates as of mid‑2025 are:
Reviewed by the Freight Market Analysis Team (freightos.com & industry data), last updated in July 2025.
Use a real‑time moving cost calculator for tailored quotes with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“I moved to Toronto in May 2025 with around 34 cubic meters of personal belongings using a 20ft container from Amsterdam. The total cost—including inland trucking, sea freight, and customs clearance—was approximately CAD 4,900, and the container arrived in just under three weeks. I worked with a local relocation company based in Toronto, and they handled all the paperwork and customs liaison, which made the process much smoother.”
— Lucas M., moved in May 2025
Importantly, many people moving to Canada choose to relocate to one of the five biggest cities in the country, including Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, and Ottawa. These cities offer diverse job opportunities, high living standards, and vibrant international communities, making them popular destinations for expats from the Netherlands and beyond.Create hyperlinks for each city name here.
What are the customs and duty rules when moving belongings?
If you’re relocating to Canada, you may be eligible for duty-free import of used household goods under the Settler or Former Resident exemption. To qualify, items must have been owned and used for at least 6 months before arrival. At your port of entry, submit Form BSF186 (or BSF186A for goods-to-follow) along with your visa and a detailed inventory list.
⚠️ New or commercial items may be taxed (5% GST + provincial duties). Declare these separately to avoid delays.
Reviewed by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), last updated in February 2025.
What is the cost of living in Canada?
The average monthly cost of living in Canada for a single occupant—including rent, groceries, transport, and utilities—is approximately CAD 3,327 per month. These figures reflect national-level city averages and are updated quarterly using data from industry sources.
| Expense | Canada (CAD/mo) |
| Rent (1‑bedroom flat in city centre) | ~1,877 / outside centre ~1,682 |
| Groceries (single person) | ~350–400 |
| Transport (monthly public transit pass) | ~100–156 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, etc.) | ~150–200 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, last updated in July 2025
What do I need to know about Canada visas and residency?
A Canadian visa or permit is required for most non-citizens and non-permanent residents. Options include the Express Entry program for skilled workers, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), family sponsorship, study permits, and work permits.
- Visa categories and eligibility check: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/come-canada-tool.html
- Visa application portal: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application.html
Reviewed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Government of Canada’s official portals, last updated in June 2025
How can I bring pets with me to Canada?
Pets entering Canada must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and accompanied by either a valid rabies vaccination certificate or an official veterinary certificate, depending on species and country of origin.
Import requirements differ for dogs, cats, and exotic animals, and some breeds may face additional restrictions.
If arriving from outside Canada, notify the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) upon entry. Using a licensed pet relocation service and preparing veterinary documents in advance ensures compliance and reduces travel stress for both the owner and the pet.
Reviewed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), last updated in March 2025
What’s required to import a car or swap a driving licence?
If you’re moving to Canada, you must declare your vehicle at customs. GST (5%), provincial taxes, and duties may apply unless you qualify for settler or returning resident exemptions. Vehicles must meet Canadian safety and emissions standards, and most imports require inspection via the RIV program before registration.
Driver’s licences from countries like the U.S., EU, Australia, Japan, or South Korea may be exchanged without testing. Others may require a written or road test within 60–90 days of residency.
Reviewed by Transport Canada and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), last updated in July 2025
How do I open a bank account and get a Canada’s social security number?
To open a Canadian bank account, you’ll need valid photo ID (e.g. passport or Canadian immigration document) and may also need proof of address and your Social Insurance Number (SIN). Most major banks offer newcomer packages, with no-fee accounts, credit card options, and multilingual services.
After you arrive in Canada, you can apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) through Service Canada. You’ll need to provide immigration documents (e.g. work/study permit or PR card) and your passport. The SIN is essential for employment, taxes, and accessing government services.
Reviewed by Service Canada and the Bank of Canada, last updated in November 2024
How to Access Healthcare and Insurance Options in Canada?
Canada offers publicly funded healthcare, with each province or territory managing its own system. Most permanent and some temporary residents can access free basic care, including doctor visits and hospital services, by applying for a provincial health card after arrival.
Private insurance is optional and helps cover services not included in public plans, such as dental, prescriptions, and physiotherapy. Many employers provide extra health benefits.
💡 Don’t forget to apply for your health card early to avoid coverage gaps.
Reviewed by Health Canada and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
How to Navigate the Housing Market as a Newcomer to Canada?
Renters in Canada typically pay a security deposit equal to one month’s rent, though this can vary by province. Utilities (electricity, heating, water, internet) are often not included in the advertised rent. To secure a rental, you’ll usually need to provide key documents such as proof of income, ID or immigration status, references, and sometimes a credit report or employment letter.
If you’re looking to buy property in Canada, budget for additional costs such as land transfer tax, notary/legal fees, home inspection, and mortgage insurance (if your down payment is under 20%). These expenses typically add 3–10% on top of the purchase price.
Popular residential areas for newcomers in major Canadian cities include:
- Toronto – North York: Diverse, family-friendly, with schools and easy subway access
- Vancouver – Kitsilano: Trendy, beachside, with lots of cafés and a relaxed atmosphere
- Montreal – Plateau Mont-Royal: Artistic, bilingual, and walkable with European charm
- Calgary – Beltline: Urban and youthful, with parks and a growing food scene
- Ottawa – Centretown: Central and quiet, popular with students and civil servants
Reviewed by Rentals.ca and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), last updated in March 2025
How to Understand Your Tax and Pension Obligations in Canada?
If you’re a resident in Canada for more than 183 days or establish significant residential ties (e.g., housing, family, or employment), you’re taxed on your worldwide income. Contributions to social programs such as the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Employment Insurance (EI) are mandatory.Canada also has tax treaties with over 90 countries to prevent double taxation on foreign income.
| Tax Component | Description | Notes |
| Income Tax | On global income | Progressive rates: ~15%–33% federal + provincial rates |
| Social Contributions | Covers CPP, EI | Shared by employer and employee |
| Double Tax Treaties | Avoid double taxation | Agreements with 90+ countries |
Reviewed by Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), last updated in April 2025
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for United States and Mexico with ReloAdvisor.
