Living in Canada: A Guide for New Zealanders

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The Remitly editorial team is a global group of writers and editors passionate about helping Kiwis thrive in New Zealand and beyond.

Key Highlights

Canada gives you a good quality of life. There is lots of beautiful scenery and people are friendly, so it’s a great new country for Kiwis.
The cost of living can be high, especially when it comes to housing in major cities like Vancouver and Toronto.
It’s good to learn about Canadian culture. People are polite, but keep in mind that parts of the country can be different from each other.
Newcomers get access to excellent healthcare and top schools. But you might have to wait a bit for some services.
There are many newcomer services that can help you with visas, looking for a job, and joining the community.
Be ready for cold winters, because the weather is very different from New Zealand.

Introduction

Are you thinking about leaving your home in the long white cloud to move to the great white north? Choosing to start a new life in Canada can be a big and exciting step. Canada has a high standard of living, beautiful outdoor spots, and friendly people. That is why so many New Zealanders are looking at this new country for their next move. Whether you like the busy feel of Canadian cities or the peace found in nature, Canada gives you both good work choices and the chance to enjoy life outside. This guide will show you what you can expect if you want to make this change.

Understanding Life in Canada for New Zealanders

Getting used to life in Canada means you will need to learn a new pace and way to do things. Canadian culture is well known for being polite and includes people from many backgrounds, especially in major cities. Here, new immigrants from around the world add to a busy and interesting community.

New Zealand and Canada have some things in common. But you will notice there are differences too. This could be in the way people meet, or even in the large size of the country. Finding these small things is part of your own journey. So, let’s talk about what life feels like day-to-day, the differences by region, and what draws people to Canada.

Everyday Experiences and Lifestyle Differences

In Canada, your daily routine may mean you have to travel more than you did before. You might spend extra time getting to work or doing your shopping. When you live in this new country, you will have more travel days, so it’s good to plan your time well. This change can affect your quality of life. Because of this, it’s important to find a good balance early. Looking after your mental health will help you feel better as you settle in.

The Canadian culture is warm, but also polite and respectful. You should know that it does not always lead to close friendships straight away. Canadians often wait before getting close to new people. You will get used to having short talks but making strong bonds will take more of your time and effort.

People in Canada love spending time in the great outdoors, even when it gets cold. In winter, Canadians still get outside to ski, skate, or snowshoe. If you join in, it is a good way to get to know other people and connect with the local culture. This will help you see winter as a time for fun and new experiences, not just as a challenge of living in the new country.

Major Cities and Regional Variations

Canada is a big country, and life can be very different from one area to the next. Many people start out in the major cities. Vancouver, in British Columbia, has warmer winters and great beaches, while Toronto is busy and full of people from around the world. All Canadian cities have their own style and work market.

If you go further east, you’ll see French-speaking Quebec, where things feel more like Europe. The Prairie provinces such as Alberta and Saskatchewan are flat, windy, and known for cold weather. Coastal cities like Halifax have a slower pace and feel a bit more relaxed. It’s good to learn about these regional differences when looking for the best places to suit how you want to live and the work you want to do.

When you take time to look around the Great White North, you’ll learn there is not just one “Canadian experience.” Where you pick to live will shape what life in Canada is like for you. Things like the cost of living, weather, and what people are like in each area can change what you get out of living here. If you take time to know about these changes before moving, you’ll make better choices for you and your family.

Why Canada Appeals to New Zealanders

Many Kiwis want to move to Canada because the quality of life is good and the country gives people a lot of new chances. People pick Canada because it is safe, calm, and so beautiful with nature. Canadian culture is open and friendly, so it is easy for new people to fit in and feel at home.

There is more to the Canadian lifestyle than just how you live. The major Canadian cities have strong job markets where you can look for better work or grow in your field. Also, the country puts a lot of value on public services and that draws people in. Here are some main reasons why so many think Canada is a good place to go:

Excellent Healthcare: You get access to a universal healthcare system. It is public, and it means you do not have to worry about big bills.
Strong Public Education: The education in Canada is good. This makes it great for families thinking about what is best for their kids.
Vibrant Communities: There are many community events and well-kept public spaces. This helps everyone join in, meet people, and become part of the local area.

Moving to a new country is never easy. But Canada has a lot that helps bring people in. The way things work and the strong, caring society in Canadian cities both help many New Zealanders get used to their new life there.

Pros and Cons of Living in Canada

Every country has good things and bad things, and Canada is the same. If you are one of the new immigrants, there are many positives, like a high standard of living, great scenery, and a safe and friendly place to live. But it is good to know about the problems you might have to deal with too.

The high cost of living can be hard, especially because affordable housing in major cities is tough to find. People from New Zealand are used to warmer weather, so the long and cold winters in Canada can be hard to get used to. Let’s look at the advantages and the challenges you might come across.

Advantages of Moving to Canada

A lot of people choose to move to Canada because the country cares about social welfare and the quality of life. The country is well known for being beautiful, with many outdoor activities you can do any time of the year. You can go skiing in the Rockies or spend time kayaking on the Great Lakes.

Canada has more than just natural beauty. There are also things in daily life that make things better for people. You will see that life is safe, stable, and you meet all sorts of people as it is a multicultural place. Many Canadian cities are always ranked as some of the world’s most liveable places. While the cost of living can be high in some areas, many think what you get in return is good.

Here are some of the main advantages:

Universal Healthcare: With tax-funded universal healthcare, people can see a doctor when they need to.
Excellent Education: The public school system is free if you are a permanent resident and it has a good name.
Work-Life Balance: Canadian businesses care a lot about keeping a good balance between work and home life.
Safety and Stability: There is not much crime, and with steady politics, people feel safe in Canada.

Challenges Faced by Newcomers

While Canada is known a friendly place, new immigrants can still run into their own set of problems. One of the most common challenges is the job search. Many employers in Canada want someone with “Canadian experience.” This can make it hard to get your first job, even if you have strong skills from back home.

Trying to settle in can also affect your mental health. You have to get used to a new culture and find your way through systems you do not know yet. Being far from your support group back in New Zealand can make things even harder. It is important to give yourself time, be patient, and reach out for help if you need it.

The good news is there are resources to help you deal with these issues.

Networking: Meeting people in your field is important. Try to go to work events and talk with people who do the same kind of work as you.
Support Groups: Joining support groups or community groups for expats can help you feel like you belong and give you real advice on what to do.
Newcomer Services: There are many groups that offer free support with your job search, language classes, and other things you may need after you move.
Cultural Adjustment: Getting used to the way people live and act in Canada will take some time, so be ready to adjust and learn as you go.

By making use of support groups, newcomer services, and building your network, new immigrants can work through

Comparing Canada and New Zealand

When you move from your home country, comparisons are inevitable. While both Canada and New Zealand offer a high quality of life and stunning natural beauty, there are key differences that will shape your experience in your new country. Canada is significantly larger, which means distances between cities are vast, and regional diversity is more pronounced.

One of the most noticeable differences is the climate. While New Zealand enjoys a temperate climate, much of Canada experiences extreme seasons, including long, cold winters. Another key distinction is that Canada has two official languages, English and French, with French being predominant in Quebec. You’ve come a long way, and these differences will be part of your new reality.

Here is a simple comparison to highlight some of the distinctions:

Feature	Canada	New Zealand
Size	9.98 million sq km	268,021 sq km
Population	Approx. 40 million	Approx. 5.2 million
Climate	Varies widely; severe winters in many regions	Mostly temperate with mild winters
Official Languages	English and French	English, Māori, NZ Sign Language
Cost of Living	Generally higher, especially in major cities	High, but generally lower than Canada’s major urban centres

What to Know Before Moving

Making the big move to Canada can be a big change. You need to plan well for this. Before you pack your bags, it is good to look up some key things. If you do this now, it will save you a lot of time and worry later. This is true for new immigrants and international students. There are many steps, like getting your visa, finding a place to stay, and sorting out your money.

You should know what life in Canada is really like. Check things like the cost of living, how cold or hot it is, and how people act with each other. When you learn more about these, you can set good plans for your new life. This will help you get ready for your move and settle in well.

Essential Research and Planning

The first thing you need to do is do some research on the immigration process. Find out which visa or permit is right for you. It does not matter if you are a skilled worker or looking at another stream, you need to know what Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) asks for. Start your application early because waiting times can be long.

You should also start your job search before you move. It can be hard to get a job from another country, but many Canadian companies want to hire people from overseas. Make your CV the way Canadian employers like it, and start making connections on LinkedIn. Meeting people before you get there can help you a lot.

Also, look into the little but important things. Check if you can use your New Zealand driver’s licence or if you will need an international driving permit for your first months. Find out what you need to do about your banking, where you will live, and how healthcare works. This will help you get set up quickly when you arrive.

It’s important to know the financial side of things before you move. The cost of living in Canada can be high, especially in the big cities. Housing is likely to take up most of your money. Make sure you plan for bills too, as power can cost a lot during the long, cold winters. Another thing to remember is the sales tax. It’s added at the checkout, not shown on the price tag.

The weather will be a big change for Kiwis. You need to get ready for cold winters with lots of snow in many areas. Good winter gear like a warm coat, boots, gloves, and a hat isn’t just nice to have—it’s needed if you want to be safe and comfortable during the season.

In Canada, people value politeness, being on time, and respect. This is a progressive place where diversity is welcome.

Inclusivity: Canada gives plenty of protections to people from all backgrounds. This includes looking out for people because of who they are, like their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Politeness: It’s normal to say “please,” “thank you,” and “sorry” often when talking to others.
Punctuality: People expect you to show up on time whether it’s for a meeting or a get-together.
Personal Space: Canadians usually like to have a bit of space when they talk to people.

Common Surprises for New Zealanders

Moving to a new country like Canada brings many new things, even if you do lots of research. Many Kiwis find the size of the country to be a big surprise. Cities are far apart from each other. A trip that looks quick on a map can really take a whole day to drive.

You might also be surprised by the universal healthcare in Canada. It pays for most important medical things, but not everything. Dental care, going to see about your eyes, and getting medicine with a prescription often cost extra. You will need private insurance for those. Most people find the quality of life is good, but these extra costs can make a difference.

Here are some other things about life in Canada that may stand out:

The public education system: Schools are great but run by each province. There can be differences depending on where you live.
Building credit from scratch: Your New Zealand credit record doesn’t move over with you. You have to start again.
The role of Indigenous people: When you get to Canada, you will see more is said about the history and rights of Indigenous people.
Tipping culture: Tipping is common for food and hairdressers. Normally, people tip between 15-20%.

Beginner’s Guide to Settling in Canada

Welcome to Canada! In your first weeks and months, you will start to build your new life. For new immigrants, this time can feel busy and a bit full on. There’s the paperwork to fill out, meetings to go to, and lots of new things happening. You want to get the basics done so you can feel at home.

No matter if you are here as a temporary worker or as a permanent resident, taking it one step at a time can make it feel less hard. This guide will show a way to handle things like opening a bank account and finding new friends. It will help you through the first stage of settling in.

What You Need to Get Started (Visas, Documents, Essentials)

When you get to Canada, the first thing you should do is make sure the paperwork you need is sorted. The visa, work permit, or permanent resident card helps you get the services you need here. You have to keep these documents, and your passport, in a safe place where you can get to them when you need them. It is a good idea to have both paper and digital copies of these too.

Once you know your status is sorted out, you can then start to apply for other things you need. One thing you need to get early is your Social Insurance Number (SIN). You will need the SIN to work or use many of the government services in Canada. You are also going to need to apply for a health card from your province, but there could be a wait for it to arrive.

Here are the key items you’ll have to have to get started:

Valid immigration documents: These could be your visa, your work permit, or your permanent resident confirmation.
Passport: This needs at least six months left before it runs out.
Proof of funds: You need to show you can support yourself when you arrive.
International health insurance: You need this to be covered while you wait for your provincial health care to start.

Step-by-Step Guide to Moving and Settling

Moving to a new country can seem like a big job, but you can make it easier by taking small steps. After you get your visa, you need to focus on the things that help you start your new life. Those first weeks in Canada matter a lot as they help set you up for everything that comes next.

It’s best to look for a place to stay and sort your money in the beginning. You may want a short-term rental while you search for somewhere long-term. At the same time, open a bank account in Canada so you can manage your money well. With those sorted, you can start to look at job postings, if you have not done that already.

There are many newcomer services to help new immigrants adjust. A lot of these are free and give great support.

Attend orientation sessions: These sessions can give you help with things like banking, finding a home, and healthcare.
Get language support: If you want to get better at English or French, you can get free classes.
Use online resources: Some websites have a live chat so you can get your questions answered fast.
Connect with settlement workers: These people can give you support and help you one-on-one.

Step-by-step guide/process

Moving to a new country is much easier when you have a clear plan. This simple guide will walk you through the key steps in moving to Canada. You will learn what to do from the time you get your visa until you settle in your new place. By following each step, you can make your move smoother.

If you are one of the skilled workers or someone wanting a better quality of life, this process shows you the way forward. It can also help you if you want to apply for citizenship in Canada later. Let’s begin your journey now.

Step 1: Securing Your Visa and Entry Requirements

The first and most important thing to do is get the right visa or permit. There are a number of ways to move to Canada, so you have to find the one that works best for you. Many people from New Zealand choose the Express Entry system. This lets skilled workers apply by checking things like age, education, work history, and your language skills.

If you already have a job offer, you may get an employer-specific work permit. There are also options like International Experience Canada (IEC) for younger folks. The IEC can give temporary work permits. It is best to read about all the visa options for skilled workers on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. This helps you see if you qualify.

The whole application can take time, and it might feel tough, but you should take care and not rush things. Give all the papers the process asks for, and double-check to be sure your paperwork is right, or you might wait longer. Doing this part well is key for your big move to Canada.

Step 2: Finding Accommodation

After you find out your move is confirmed, the next thing is to look for a place to live. The housing market in Canadian cities can be very different depending on where you want to go. In major Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver, the rental market is tough and finding affordable housing can take time. It’s a good idea to go online and start your search before you get there. This can help you understand the prices and the different neighbourhoods.

For new immigrants, it might be hard to get a rental if you don’t have a Canadian credit history or proof of a job in Canada. Some landlords could ask for a few months’ rent paid in advance or want a Canadian guarantor. Get ready for this, and you might want to choose a short-term lease or a sublet at first while you set yourself up.

To get that real local experience, take some time to check out different neighbourhoods before you agree to a long-term lease. You can talk to people who live there, join local Facebook groups, and look around neighbourhoods at different times of day. This will help you and your family find a place that feels like home in these Canadian cities.

Step 3: Setting Up Banking and Finances

When you get to Canada, it is important to handle your money in a good way. One of the first things you need to do is open a bank account in Canada. The big banks in Canada have special options for new immigrants, so this job should be easier. You will usually need your passport, some documents about your move, and something that shows your address.

When you live in Canada, you have to build your credit history from the start. What you had in New Zealand in your credit will not count in Canada. You need to get a credit card in Canada as soon as you can. Start with a card that does not let you spend too much. Pay what you owe every month on time. This can help you get a stronger credit score.

You will need time to get used to what people spend on things in Canada and how they use their money. The cost of living in some places is high. Here are some things to think about:

Sales Tax: Sales tax (GST/HST) is put on most things and services when you pay, so the cost will go up at the checkout.
Banking Fees: Banks in Canada often have fees each month and limits on how many times you can use the account.
Budgeting: Make a plan for your money and include costs that are higher in many places, like food, getting around, and bills.
Offshore Accounts: You may want to keep an offshore account to help move money

Step 4: Accessing Healthcare and Support Services

Getting to know Canada’s healthcare system is important when you move here. You should get your provincial health insurance card as soon as you arrive. In most places, there is a wait time of up to three months before you can use your coverage. During this time, it is a good idea to get private health insurance, so you are protected if you need to see a doctor or get other medical help.

Canada’s healthcare system covers many important medical needs, but there are limits. Things like dental care, prescription medicine, and some mental health services are not always paid for. Many people here get extra private health insurance through their jobs because of this.

To help you start your new life, there are many newcomer services in Canada. The government pays for many of these as free services for new people.

Settlement Agencies: You can get advice about things like finding a house or getting a job from these agencies.
Health Clinics for Newcomers: Some cities have clinics that help new people before their provincial health insurance starts.
Mental Health Support: There are community groups where you can get mental health services and join support groups for immigrants.
Information Sessions: You can go to free workshops to learn how to use Canada’s healthcare system and find out about other newcomer services.

Step 5: Integrating into Canadian Culture and Community

Once you’ve sorted out the basics, you can put your energy into the good part: getting to know canadian culture and making a new group of friends. Meeting new people and feeling you fit in is so important. Give yourself time. Be open, try new things, and don’t rush yourself as you settle in.

Joining community events is a top way to step right into the local experience. Most places in Canada will have festivals, farmers’ markets, and local sports games. If you choose to help out with volunteering, it’s another great way to meet people and help your new community at the same time.

Here are some tips for building your new social life:

Join local groups: Use apps like Meetup or look for local Facebook groups to find people who like the same stuff as you.
Take a class: Sign up for a course or workshop. This helps you learn new things and meet new people.
Explore your neighbourhood: Check out parks, libraries, and community centres around you.
Learn about Canadian history: Get to know more about how canadian culture grew, and about indigenous people too. Learning about this is a good way to feel closer to canada.

Conclusion

To sum up, moving from New Zealand to Canada will give you many new experiences and a chance to grow as a person. You will notice small changes in the way people live, and you will also see the good and bad sides of living in a new country. If you know what to expect before you leave, it will make your move go much smoother. From getting your visa to joining the local community, every step is important in your journey. Go with the change. Remember, getting used to a new country takes time, but it can give you a lot in return. If you ever feel stressed, there are local support services to help people new to Canada. If you need help planning your move, you can contact our team for a free chat!

Frequently Asked Questions

How expensive is the cost of living in Canada for immigrants?

The cost of living can be high for new immigrants. This is true, especially in big cities like Toronto and Vancouver. It is not easy to find affordable housing in these places. The price of groceries, transport, and utilities also makes things cost more. Also, most things you buy will have sales tax added on. This can be a surprise for people who are new to the country.

What cultural differences should New Zealanders expect in Canada?

Kiwis moving to this new country will see that Canadian culture is a bit more quiet. People in Canada put a big focus on being polite in how they act with each other. There is also a lot of talk and respect for Indigenous people here. The land is huge, and the winters can be tough. These things change the quality of life and daily routines in ways that are not like New Zealand.

How do settlement services support new residents in Canada?

Newcomer services give so much help for people who are new. They do this by offering free services like classes for language, workshops to help you learn, and support to help you find work. With these services, you get the chance to go to community events, and you can also use mental health resources if you need them. Many newcomer services have a live chat too, so you can ask any quick questions. With all this, getting started in Canada is much easier.

What are the main steps to immigrate and live in Canada permanently?

The first step is to find out if you can get a visa. For many, this is done through a system for skilled workers. After that, you need to send your application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). If you are successful, you can get a work permit or become a permanent resident. This is the path that can later let you apply for citizenship canada.