Canada is a popular immigration destination for people from the UK. Obviously, being able to share a common language is a big plus. In addition, the two countries share a queen and other aspects of British heritage are alive and well, including the ability to watch Coronation Street on basic cable.
You don’t necessarily need to fear the cold and snow either. You might find the weather in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia and on Vancouver Island more similar to the weather in the UK. Winter temperatures in this area are around zero degrees Celsius with lots of rain, but very little snow near sea level. However, there are four seasons in Canada, and winter is only one of them, so regardless of where you plan to live, don’t let cold deter you.
The UK adds about 5,500 immigrants per year to the Canadian population. That said, moving to Canada from the UK is not as easy as you might think.
Programs for moving from the UK to Canada
There are a few programs you might qualify for if you want to move to Canada.
Canadian Working Holiday Visa – This program is intended for young people (18-34) to experience working abroad. This is a reciprocal agreement that also allows Canadians to work in the UK. Although this is only a temporary work permit, the experience might benefit an application for immigration in the future. The permit is 24 months.
Study Permit – A study permit is relatively easy to obtain as long as you can gain acceptance to a recognized program and afford to support yourself. Down the road, your experience in Canada can contribute to an immigration application.
Family Class and Spouse Visa – A family member can sponsor you to come to Canada. However, restrictions apply. Generally, this is for spouses, children and parents unless a person is completely alone in Canada, in which case they may sponsor another family member, such as a brother or sister. Common-law qualifies as a spouse as long as the relationship is legitimate.
Temporary Work Permit – If you have a job offer, you may be able to come to Canada to work for that employer, but be aware that many employers don’t want the hassle of hiring someone from abroad if there are qualified locals willing to take the job. As well, the employer may have to prove to the government that there wasn’t a Canadian willing and able to take the job. Getting hired from outside the country is difficult.
Entrepreneur, Investor and Self-Employed Visa – On the other hand if you have money to invest and a business idea that could support you, contribute to the economy and potentially provide jobs for Canadians, your application could be seriously considered.
Express Entry – Express Entry is a points-based immigration system. Coming from the UK, you already meet at least one of the criteria – fluency in one of Canada’s two official languages (which are English and French). Other points are given for work experience, education, Canadian experience, age or job offer. Your experience as a student, working holiday participant or work permit holder could support an application for residency in Canada as it shows you have some understanding of the local culture and way of life.
Provincial Nominee – Provinces have their own priorities for immigrants related to the needs of a province. For example, a province may have a shortage of certain professionals – doctors, high tech workers, etc. – and may look for immigrants who can provide those skills.
Your biggest concerns in moving to Canada will be whether or not you have skills that Canada needs, and whether or not you or your family sponsor can afford to support you. If so, moving to Canada from the UK is a popular way to expand your horizons culturally and professionally in the world’s second-largest country.