Situated on Lake Ontario’s shore, Toronto is one of the most vibrant and exciting places to live in. You are embarking on an adventure if you are moving to Toronto, but the Big Smoke, as some people call it, certainly won’t let you down. Read on to find out what you can expect if you move internationally to Toronto.
Breaking Down International Moving – How to Immigrate to Toronto?
Before reveling in Toronto’s magic, you need to sort out your migration documents. Moving abroad almost always entails red tape, but in Canada, the process is relatively simple. Depending on the nature of your international relocation, you are eligible for a visa or permanent residency. To call Toronto your new home, in the long run, you can apply for Express Entry – a program suitable for people who can work to contribute to the Canadian economy. Another option is to research Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) if you believe you can make a difference in the province of Ontario where Toronto is located. On a different note, if you are not moving abroad alone and have a family member in Canada, or you are planning to fall head over heels in love with a Canadian, you have a better chance of obtaining your documents. Moving to another country for love usually has an administrative upside, so make sure to check out the website of the Government of Canada for more info about your specific situation.
Cost of Living – How Much Money Do I Need?
Toronto is an expensive city if you look at housing or renting costs, whereas other costs such as transportation, leisure, and shopping are quite similar to other major world cities. According to Numbeo’s Cost of Living Index guide, Toronto is less expensive than New York and London if you consider all the prices that make up one’s life. As mentioned above, the largest portion of your expenses will be taken up by rent (almost 40%,) but you can reduce it if you find someone to share your house with. To buy an apartment in the city center, you will need approximately 12,000 Canadian dollars per square meter, whereas house prices are considerably larger depending on the neighborhood. If you are moving to Toronto from the US, you won’t need to strike it rich since property prices in New York are two times higher than in Toronto.
How Much Does It Cost to Move to Toronto – Working Out Moving Costs
It might seem daunting to think about expenses involved in international moving such as this, especially if your old home is miles away from Canada. Nevertheless, costs vary from one international moving company to the other. To start with, when it comes to price, international moving by air is a whole different story than say international moving by sea. Thus, you need to analyze what is best for you. Secondly, you have to think about which moving services you want. You need to research what to pack when moving abroad and decide whether you want packing services or you are fine on your own. Also, if you are fond of your car and would like to drive in Toronto, start considering your options for shipping a car overseas and exploring numerous overseas vehicle shipping options available.
Is Moving to Toronto a Good Idea?
If you are asking yourself the same question – Is moving to Canada a good idea? – over and over again, check out what moving to Toronto means in terms of your living place and health.
Pros and Cons of Best Neighborhoods in Toronto
Toronto flaunts many desirable neighborhoods and inspiring places to live. The Ultimate Neighbourhood Ranking guide can give you a clear picture of perks different parts of the city have. If you are moving across the world for work, The Harbour Front might be the perfect place for you. Alongside many work opportunities, it also offers beautiful scenery and nature as well as a good connection to other parts of the city. On the other hand, if you are craving things to do and like meeting people, Kensington might be your cup of tea. With its hipster scene, bars, cafes, and cool little shops, it’s just what you need for a fun time. Browse reviews of Toronto’s hot spots on Facebook to see for yourself. Lastly, if you are a proud parent looking for the best places to live abroad with family, you will like The Beaches. Slightly secluded from the city center, it’s just right for people who want some peace and time for adjusting to a new country. The housing costs are lower than in the center, and the kids can have plenty of outdoor adventures.
An Apple a Day – Things to Know About Health Care in Canada
The question of health care must have hit you while moving to Toronto Canada. The good news is that most cities in Canada, including Toronto, are part of the tax-funded health care system, which enables you to be insured and have access to free healthcare. Living overseas is a challenge, but if you put in the effort to apply for public health insurance, you can enjoy the comfort of this welfare state that not many places in the world can boast.
Things to Do – the World Is Your Oyster
There are a lot of things to do in the city, and you can find spots you’ll like for all your hobbies. Toronto prides itself on its lively cultural scene, and there are many state-of-the-art museums and galleries as well as concerts and festivals. And if you are outgoing and want to paint the town red, the nightlife won’t fall short of your expectations. Besides, Canada ranks high on the list of friendliest countries in the world, and it’s open to newcomers. This being said, meeting new people will be a piece of cake, and you can always use Facebook to guide you to join various groups of enthusiasts and share your interests. But remind yourself that knowing how to keep in touch with friends from your old place is also vital.
Is Moving to Canada for Me?
If you are still wondering why you shouldn’t move to Toronto, make a list of things you want to know about your new home and just give yourself time. It’s often overwhelming to go through an international move, but Toronto will surely put your heart at ease.
