Country Guides November 25, 2020

All You Need to Know Before Moving to Ontario

Hannah Michaelson

Hannah is a freelance relocation writer from NYC that has become an expert on packing and unpacking.

There are some essential things you should know if you are moving internationally. Moving to Ontario requires proper planning and organization. Getting a visa might be challenging if you want to immigrate. You will need to spend some time preparing appropriate documents to apply for some immigration programs. Continue reading if you’re interested in finding out more details on how to plan your move. We also strongly recommend hiring a professional international moving company.

Things to Know if You Are Moving to Ontario

Ontario is the east-central province of Canada that borders the US and the Great Lakes and home to more than 13,650,000 people. Its capital city and the financial center is Toronto. Other important cities include London, Thunder Bay, and Hamilton. If you’re planning on moving to Canada, this province is definitely one of the best choices.

Is Ontario a Good Place to Live?

Still looking for reasons why you should move and asking yourself – is this one of the best places to live abroad? Or why should I move to Ontario? If you are wondering what the friendliest countries in the world are, you’ll be happy to hear that Canadians are known as welcoming to newcomers.

If you haven’t moved internationally before and want to find out how to move abroad, check out our blog. And if you are looking for the best places to live abroad with family, you should know that Toronto is considered one of Canada’s safest cities. As an American citizen, you might need a visa to relocate to Canada in 2021. You should also get health insurance and a driver’s license change. Plan everything in advance and follow these simple steps that will make your move a successful and satisfying experience.

kayaking at a lake
Enjoy exploring 250,000 lakes around the country

How Can I Immigrate to Ontario? Express Entry and Other Applications Options

First of all, you will need to make a list of documents needed to travel abroad. This usually requires an immigration visa. Mainly, there are three options to apply for – study permit, work visa, or citizenship. Student and work visas are temporary, while citizenship is a more permanent solution. Marriage to a Canadian citizen won’t solve this problem automatically.

Are You Eligible for Express Entry?

Express Entry is a system frequently used to select candidates for immigration by using economic immigration programs. The first step should be finding out if you are eligible for one of these programs. If you want to enter the Express Entry pool, complete the free CanadaVisa assessment form, and find out. If not, you can always opt for regular visas instead.

visa aplication
Visa application is required for American citizens

Work Information and Important Paperwork

You should consider looking for a job in advance, especially if you are moving abroad alone. This may prevent relocation depression and save you a lot of time and money. Think about relocation questions to ask the employer about visa privileges you might have. Although numbers vary throughout the province, the average monthly net salary in Toronto is approximately $3,135. The average salary is the highest for people working in management, and yearly incomes for them are usually about $70,000. Check out canadajobs.com if you are looking for jobs in Canada. If you want to build your own business, some Canadian life insurance groups offer a package of business insurance products.

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Get The Best Health Insurance After Moving

If you successfully moved to your new home and got a permanent residency, you should apply for the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This process requires preparing appropriate Health Card documents and usually takes up to three months before the realization. You won’t be able to enjoy living overseas to the fullest if you don’t have appropriate healthcare so do this as soon as possible.

Learn How to Get a Driving License in Canada

Get an insurance experience letter from your previous insurance provider and make sure you have an original driver abstract from the appropriate state department. When you move to Canada, apply for an Ontario driver’s license. Keep in mind that you can drive with an out-of-province license for 60 days maximum.

completing a business
Ask your employer about available privileges

What is The Cheapest City in Ontario to Live In?

Big cities in the province, such as Toronto, are a bit pricey, according to Numbeo. For example, the monthly rent here is about $1,700 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. On the other hand, Thunder Bay is considered the cheapest city in the province, with the monthly rent for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center of $1,350. Our advice is to do a reasonable calculation depending on your income and approximate living expenses in this province.

Other Great Places to Pick From

Of course, Toronto and Thunder Bay are not your only options. The list of the best places to live in Ontario also includes the following cities and towns:

  • Vaughan – home to around 300,000 people and the largest theme park in the country,
  • Newmarket – the go-to option for families and people who enjoy outdoor activities,
  • Aurora – one of the richest towns in the country with lots of shopping and dining options,
  • Hamilton – Toronto’s more affordable younger brother.
making a financial plan
Think about your financial plan

Learn More About Things to Do Here

If you are looking for a new adventure, don’t miss Thousand Islands National Park located on the St. Lawrence River – rent a kayak or camp under the moonlight. Experience Canadian well-known Muskoka’s Legendary Lakes and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones. In one of the top wine-producing province, you might also take a wine-tasting route through Niagara, Prince Edward County. If you are moving with dogs, you’ll be happy to hear that most of these places are dog-friendly.

There Are Options for Everyone

The list of activities in this province is almost endless. Check out the video below to find out how you can spend your free time once you’ve settled down in your new home.

YouTube video

Make Your Move to Canada Easier With International Moving Services

Choose the best international moving company, and professional movers will help you transport your items to the desired destination. You will definitely need boxes and moving supplies, and probably some additional packing services, moving services that include storage facilities, or international moving services in general. Even if you need overseas vehicle shipping, let an overseas shipping company do all the hard work for you.

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