For a few consecutive years, Canada has been ranking first in the world for quality of life. Political stability, universal healthcare, high-quality education, impeccable infrastructure, and world-class cities are only a few of the most attractive things about Canada. Yet, many Canadian citizens choose to live abroad for various personal or professional reasons. If you’re a Canadian living or planning to live overseas, you may be surprised by how things work in the new country.
Are you a Canadian starting a new life abroad? Read on to discover four essential things that you need to know.
1. You May Need Healthcare Insurance
As a Canadian, you may be disappointed to discover that some countries do not offer publicly-funded healthcare services to citizens, residents, and short-term visitors. In the developed world, the United States is the only country that does not have a universal healthcare system. The other countries where healthcare is paid for out-of-pocket are South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Nigeria, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria, and China.
Another aspect to consider is that even in developing countries that have a universal healthcare system, the quality of the services can vary drastically from one place to another, and long waiting times are considered normal. Getting health insurance for Canadian citizens living abroad is the only way to ensure you will receive prompt, high-quality medical assistance during your stay abroad. Private health insurance will help you gain access to a high standard of healthcare as an expat.
2. Research Housing Options in Advance
Figuring out accommodation is the most important thing when starting a new life abroad. When you’re unfamiliar with the local real estate market, finding something suitable can be challenging. What constitutes a fair price? Which locations are the most convenient? What neighborhoods are the safest? Can you rely on public transport to move around the city or town? All these questions may cross your mind when searching for housing.
To avoid making an unfortunate decision that will sour your experience abroad, research housing options in advance. Ideally, you should start your research before moving and book short-term accommodation for your first weeks overseas. Thus, you will be able to check the atmosphere in various neighborhoods and decide where you want to live. Canada is known for its low crime rate and is considered one of the safest and most secure countries in the world. However, safety is a significant concern for citizens of other countries, so consider this aspect when choosing where to live.
3. A Language Barrier Can Make You Feel Isolated
Starting a new life abroad opens up many possibilities for professional and personal development. Unfortunately, a language barrier can be a real obstacle in accessing various opportunities. If you’re an English speaker, you can expect fewer difficulties as English is widely spoken globally. Nonetheless, unless you’re moving to a country where English is the official spoken language, you will still encounter a language barrier.
Knowing the official language of your new country of residence can help you integrate faster, form closer relationships, and take advantage of the same opportunities as any other native citizen. A language barrier can make you feel isolated, especially in groups. It can also make it more difficult for you to feel a sense of belonging. To avoid this scenario, try to develop language skills before moving. Signing up for private lessons or online courses can be very helpful in this regard.
4. You May Not Be Able to Leave the Canadian Tax System
Another significant aspect to remember when starting a new life abroad is that you may not be able to cut your ties with Canada completely. Even while working abroad, you may still be considered a Canadian resident for tax purposes. Your tax obligations will depend on your remaining ties to Canada, the number of days spent in the country versus the number of days spent abroad in a year. Clarity your tax situation with the Canadian authorities to ensure you will not be at risk of double taxation or penalties.
When leaving Canada, you will need to file a tax return indicating the exact date of your departure. If you have properties in Canada or savings in Canadian bank accounts, you need legal advice from a tax expert. Moreover, if you have contributed to the Canada Pension Plan, you need to take additional steps before leaving the country. To learn more about the various challenges you may encounter, determine if your new country of residence has a tax treaty with Canada. This factor will simplify your situation.
Moving abroad can be equally exciting and terrifying due to various cultural, social, linguistic, and political differences. To make sure you have an enriching experience abroad, learn as much as you can about your destination country so you can overcome any challenges with ease.
