Due to the strong relationships the UK government has built with multiple countries over the years, citizens of the UK have the opportunity to access numerous countries of their choice.
Canada is the most sought–after destination for UK citizens, largely due to its immigration policy. Entering Canada from the USA is less challenging than from the UK as the USA is located in North America, which makes them a more favorable option for Canada‘s immigration policy.
Following the UK‘s acceptance of Brexit, many people considered how to move to Canada from the UK. Canada offers one of the highest per capita immigration rates in the world, and every year thousands of people, including those from the UK, relocate to Canada for a variety of reasons.
Canadian Immigration Visa Categories for UK Citizens/Canadian Immigration Options for UK citizens
The Canadian Immigration Visa is available in various categories which allow citizens of the United Kingdom to apply for residency in Canada. These categories include, but are not limited to:
- Skilled Workers and Professionals
- Provincial Nominees
- Family Sponsorship
- Business and Investor Migration
- Quebec Skilled Workers
Skilled Workers and Professionals
The Canadian government has implemented the Canadian Immigration Program to facilitate the immigration of experienced workers and professionals to Canada.
Through Express Entry, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) can assess, select, and recruit individuals who possess the necessary qualifications and experience under the federal economic immigration programs.
This program allows people from the UK who wish to relocate to Canada to take advantage of the skilled workers and professionals program..
Family Sponsorship
Your family members can become permanent residents of Canada and be eligible to live, work, and study in the country.
If you are over the age of 18 or a Canadian permanent resident, you can sponsor some of your family members to come to Canada through the family sponsorship program. Citizens of the United Kingdom can also take advantage of this program.
Provincial Nominee Program
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a fast and efficient route to Canadian immigration for citizens of the United Kingdom.
Eligibility for the program requires that a province or territory in Canada nominate a candidate. Most provinces are in partnership with the Canadian government and have the exclusive right to nominate immigrants who are fit to live and work in their respective provinces.
To apply under the PNP, applicants must have the necessary skills, education and work experience, as well as a valid language test result for lower–skilled professions or entrepreneurs.
Quebec Skilled Workers Program
Individuals who wish to move to the province of Quebec, Canada, and stay there on a permanent basis may be able to do so by applying for immigration through the Quebec Skilled Worker Program.
This is a point–based system which works differently from the Canadian government’s programs for experienced workers.
Applicants also do not need to have a job offer in Quebec if they are accompanied by a relative who is already living in the province. British citizens interested in immigrating to Canada should consider looking into the Quebec Skilled Workers Program for families.
Business and Investor Migration
If you are a citizen of the United Kingdom and are looking to relocate to Canada, you should take advantage of the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program.
Canada offers incredible business opportunities to those looking to invest in the country and each year, many purposeful business individuals are welcomed. There should be no reason why UK citizens should be excluded from this opportunity.
Living in Canada for British
In order to successfully relocate to Canada from the United Kingdom, it is essential to be aware of the differences in culture between the two nations. Therefore, we recommend that you take the time to properly educate yourself on the cultural distinctions between the United Kingdom and Canada.
Lifestyle in Canada vs the UK
The British and Canadian cultures have a lot of similarities, from their shared love for sports, barbecues, pubs, families, and animals, to the same type of humour.
However, there are also differences between the two nations, making them unique in their own right. While it‘s true that they have some particular characteristics in common, the lifestyles of each nation still have their own distinctive qualities.
Dress/Fashion in Canada vs UK
In Canada, there are no set rules for how people should dress. Although nudity is not allowed, it is generally accepted to wear clothing that is appropriate for the climate and occasion.
For official meetings, it is usually expected to dress in brighter clothing.
Transportation in Canada vs the UK
The cost of transportation in Canada tends to be more cost–effective than in the United Kingdom. On average, a litre of fuel in Canada is 40% cheaper than in the UK, which sells for £0.67.
However, domestic airfares in Canada are quite expensive, likely due to the lack of competition among airlines in the country. Without competition, there are few incentives for airlines to lower the cost of airfares.
Driving in Canada vs the UK
Right–hand side driving is available in Canada, unlike the United Kingdom which follows left–hand driving. Canada has a well–developed highway system, making it ideal for British travellers.
You can use your UK driving license in Canada for a certain period, however, it is strongly recommended to obtain an International Driver‘s Permit in the UK before your move to Canada.
Cost of Living in Canada vs the UK
The monthly cost of the average accommodation in Canada can vary depending on the Province. For example, if you are looking to live in a major city, you can expect to pay higher rent than if you were living in a rural area or town.
Here is a comparison of the average monthly rent prices for a one–bedroom city centre apartment in some of the top cities in Canada:
Toronto: $2,132.73
Vancouver: $2,299.52
Montreal: $1,382.21
Ottawa: $1,693.18
Calgary: $1,372.53
Schooling in Canada vs the UK
In Canada, there are a variety of school options, such as private and international schools, as well as government–funded schools in various provinces and regions.
If you prefer the British curriculum for your children, you should expect to pay around £12–15,000 for day schooling or boarding school, and up to £30–40,000 for more exclusive private schools.
Also Read: Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Conclusion
If you are looking to build a better life for yourself, Canada is an excellent place to consider. It provides a variety of opportunities for people from different parts of the world to study and work, making it a great place to pursue a number of dreams.