Moving from the UK to Canada

Thinking about moving to Canada?

Start here with our complete guide to relocating to Canada.

Expert-led guides and services for British people looking to make the move across the Atlantic, including tax, visas, citizenship, finances and more.

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Don't leave anything to chance

Moving to Canada requires proper planning

Moving from the UK to Canada is one of the most popular routes for Britons seeking more space, natural beauty and a new chapter in a familiar, English-speaking environment.

While the shared language can make Canada feel comfortably familiar, the move itself still demands careful planning. From navigating visa options and healthcare registration to understanding provincial rules and tax differences, it’s easy to underestimate how varied life can be across such a vast country.

canada flag with wilderness and mountains in the background
395,000

The Canadian government is planning to admit 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025.

*Government of Canada

 

 

460,000

Over 460,000 Canadians were born in the UK, making up nearly 6% of all immigrants in Canada

*2021 Official Canadian Census
8.3m

8.3m people living in Canada, roughly 23.0% of the population, were born outside of Canada

*2021 Official Canadian Census
76.1%

76.1% of Canadians reported English as their first official language spoken

*Canadian Government Statistics

 

 

Plan your move

Important challenges for Americans to overcome when moving to Italy

Relocating from the UK to Canada isn’t simply a change of scenery, it's potentially a complete lifestyle reset. It also comes with extreme climate changes throughout the seasons. Being prepared is essential.

Canada offers wide open spaces, strong job markets and a high standard of living, but it also comes with regional bureaucracy, varying visa options, and a healthcare system that differs from the NHS.

Regional distinctions Canada is vast, and life varies dramatically between provinces. From the temperate coasts of British Columbia to the big-city energy of Ontario and the quieter pace of the Prairies or Atlantic Canada, where you choose will shape everything from job prospects to your day-to-day lifestyle.
Cost of living

While salaries are often higher than in the UK, so are many living costs, especially housing, groceries, and utilities in major cities. Regional research is essential: life in Calgary or Halifax may feel affordable compared with Vancouver or Toronto.
Healthcare

Canada’s universal healthcare system is publicly funded but managed at the provincial level, meaning you’ll need to register after arrival. Coverage is comprehensive but not immediate, so private insurance is often recommended during your first few months.
Work/life balance

Canadians generally enjoy a healthier balance between work and leisure than many British people are used to. Paid holiday allowances may be smaller, but flexible hours, outdoor lifestyles and shorter commutes in many regions help offset the difference.
Canada-UK tax planning

Canada’s tax system can be complex for newcomers, especially if you retain UK income, property, or pensions. Both countries tax global income, but the UK–Canada tax treaty helps prevent double taxation, professional advice is highly recommended before you move.
Wealth management

Managing finances across two currencies takes planning. Opening a Canadian bank account early, understanding exchange rates, and reviewing investment or pension transfers can help protect your savings from unnecessary fees or tax complications.
Essential reading to get your research underway

What you’ll discover inside our UK-to-Canada relocation section

We help Britons moving to Canada, whether you’re relocating for work, family, adventure or a fresh start in a familiar, primarily English-speaking country.

Every move is unique. That’s why our Canada relocation hub combines practical guides, timelines and financial checklists with expert insights, webinars, and personalised introductions to trusted professionals.

Whatever your reason for moving, we’re here to give you clarity, confidence, and a smoother path to life in Canada, from your first visa application to feeling fully at home.

Canadian Visa Options


Explore the main visa routes for Britons moving to Canada, from skilled worker programmes to family sponsorship, and learn which option best suits your relocation plans. Read about Canadian Visas

Financial planning as an expat


Discover how to manage savings, pensions, and investments across two countries, protect your wealth from currency shifts, and plan financially for a confident start in Canada. Financial planning in Canada

Canada-UK tax planning

 

Understand how the UK–Canada tax treaty works, when double taxation applies, and how to organise your finances before you become Canadian tax resident.

 Guide to Canada-UK Taxes

Choosing where to live in Canada


Compare provinces, cities, and lifestyles across Canada, from major hubs to quieter regions, to find the location that matches your goals, budget, and career plans. Learn more about living in Italy
Timeline

Relocation timeline and when to speak to specialists

Moving abroad can feel a lot like training for a marathon. Most people make it to the finish line, but without preparation and expert guidance, the journey can be stressful, expensive, and full of surprises.

When relocating to Canada, timing is everything. Visa applications can take months, tax deadlines differ from the UK’s, housing searches require research and flexibility and healthcare registration depends on the province you choose.

Seasonal factors also play a part. Harsh winters can affect travel and housing availability, while regional offices and processing centres often work to their own schedules. Building in extra time for paperwork, proof of funds, background checks and official appointments will make the process far smoother.

That’s why we’ve created a relocation timeline specifically for Canada, helping you plan each stage, avoid unnecessary delays, and feel confident about your move.

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