25 Oct 2013
Moving to Canada can be an exciting yet a daunting challenge. Canada is situated north of the United States within the North American continent and is one of the largest countries in the world. Approximately 221,000 and 262,000 immigrants have moved to Canada each year since 2001.
A move to Canada is easier if you follow the correct legal procedure for residency and citizenship status. As well as have a great removals company to advise you. So here is how you move to Canada:
Choosing a Destination
Due to it's size, Canada has many places to live - Ontario, Alberta, Quebec, Vancouver, Toronto - that are all diverse in weather, culture and services; and sometimes language. It is worth spending time to research and think about which city is the right one for you and your family to live in or near to.
Learning the Lingo.
Canadians speak English and/or French so you will find that you will settle quicker if you and your family learn either, or both, of these languages. It will also help you to find a job quicker and give your children confidence at school.
Prepare to Work
If you do not have a job already secured in Canada, you should be prepared for a slightly different job hunting experience than you may be used to. The fact that you have been accepted to go to Canada does not guarantee you employment. Canada has various programs that will allow you to immigrate depending on your skills.
Prepare your Finances
Be aware that the cost of living in Canada may be different to your home country. Various everyday items and services may cost more or you may be on a lower salary whilst you process your residency. You should also get financial advice on whether you are restricted on how much money you can take from your home country, whether any duty is required to be paid and also have documented proof of your funds.
Bishop's Move recommends using financial experts, such as FC Exchange, for global currency services.
International Shipping
Get advice on what to take, shipping options and how much it will cost from a reputable removals company that is affiliated to FAIM (FIDI Accredited International Mover). FIDI companies are independently audited to ensure standards in quality of service, training, insurance and facilities.
The other affiliation to look out for is IMMI (International Mutual Insurance Company). This will protect you in the event of a mover ceasing to trade and also cover your move costs by guaranteeing the provision of equivalent removal services by another contractor up to 125% of original price or full refund.
What can you take to Canada?
You may bring your personal and household goods with you without paying duty when moving to Canada from another country. However, you will have to pay duty on leased or rented items, items you bought on your way to Canada, vehicles you plan to use for business and equipment for farming, construction, contracting or manufacturing.
Bishop's Move is the UK's largest family owned removals company with over 155 years of experience. We are affiliated to FIDI and IAM giving us the highest accreditation for shipping your possessions to Canada. Our friendly staff also have plenty of international shipping experience and can help advise you on what you can and cannot take to Canada.
Have the right Legal Documents
To enter Canada you will require the following legal documents:
You may also need documentation birth certificates, marriage certificates, adoption or divorce papers, immunisation details, school records, trade or professional certificates and licences, written references from former employers, driver’s licence and car registration documents (if you are importing a motor vehicle into Canada). Plus a completed Customs Declaration card.
Complete the Interview Process
On your arrival in Canada, you will undergo two interviews. One by the Canada Border Service Agency to check that you and your family have the correct travel documents and to check the items you are bringing with you. The second interview is for you to declare what you are bringing with you into Canada and you will need to present your Customs Declaration Card.
Get to know Canada
Whilst Canada is an established westernised country, it still may be very different from your home country - for example, it has a diverse range of wildlife, including bears. Read and research as much as you can about Canada before you immigrate. Here are some useful sites that should help advise you on your move to Canada:
