Relocating to a foreign country is undoubtedly a challenging endeavour, often presenting a
blend of advantages and disadvantages. Whether you are in the contemplative stages of
moving to Canada or are on the cusp of your arrival, it’s likely that you already find several
aspects of Canada highly appealing. Moreover, there might be certain benefits of living in
Canada that you haven’t yet discovered, which could potentially alleviate some of your
concerns.
From its diverse and captivating landscapes to the warm and hospitable populace, Canada
boasts a myriad of offerings. The country’s immigration programs seamlessly align with the
evolving demands of the job market, ensuring ample employment opportunities for skilled
newcomers following an initial adjustment period. Given these numerous favourable
attributes, it’s hardly surprising that Canada secured the 13th spot on the World Happiness
Index in 2023. In this article, we delve into some compelling reasons why Canada stands as
an excellent choice for newcomers, while also addressing some of the challenges associated
with settling in the country.
Poutine: A Canadian Canada's Affirmation of Multiculturalism and Embrace of ImmigrantsClassic
During the 1970s, guided by Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau’s vision, Canada officially
endorsed a policy that champions multiculturalism, a core element of the nation’s identity
ever since. Among developed countries, Canada boasts one of the highest immigration rates
per capita, having welcomed over 310,000 immigrants into its embrace in 2018 alone.
Impressively, 57% of these newcomers arrived as skilled workers, while the remainder
consisted of refugees and family members joining their loved ones residing in Canada.
Consequently, a striking 22.3% of Canada’s population identifies as a visible minority, with
13.6% being foreign-born.
Canada’s multiculturalism is often characterized as a ‘mosaic,’ a place where people from
diverse cultures coexist harmoniously, preserving their cultural heritage and religious
practices. In stark contrast to ‘melting pot’ cultures that urge immigrants to assimilate into
the prevailing norms, Canada’s urban hubs, including Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver,
thrive as melting pots of diversity. Toronto, often dubbed ‘the most multicultural city in the
world,’ epitomizes this spirit, with over half its population identifying as visible minorities.
Canada's Exceptional Inclusivity
Beyond multiculturalism, Canada stands as a beacon of diversity and inclusivity in various
other dimensions. The nation ardently supports the LGBTQ+ community, making history in
2005 as the fourth nation globally, and the first outside Europe, to legalize same-sex
marriage. A 2017 poll revealed an overwhelming 74% of Canadians expressing support for
same-sex marriage, underlining Canada’s progressive stance. Furthermore, Canada officially
declared June as Pride Month in 2015 and hosts the renowned Toronto Pride Parade, one of
the world’s largest LGBTQ+ celebrations.
In the realm of gender equality, Canada demonstrates an unwavering commitment. When
Justin Trudeau ascended to the role of Prime Minister in 2015, he pledged a gender-
balanced cabinet. Foundational women’s rights, including voting, access to birth control, and
abortion, are firmly established and safeguarded. While opportunities for women in
leadership roles still have room for improvement, Canadian women exhibit a high workforce
participation rate, with 82% of women between 25 and 54 years of age opting for
employment outside their homes.
Canada's Stature as the World's Tenth-Largest Economy
Canada defies expectations in the global economic arena. Despite ranking 38th in population
size worldwide, the nation boasts the world’s tenth-largest economy, with an impressive
output of 1.6 trillion or $48,100 per capita. Canada’s ascent to the top 10, surpassing Russia
in 2015, underscores its economic prowess. Contrary to popular belief, Canada’s economy
predominantly thrives in the service sector, with a substantial 78.9% of Canadians employed
in service-related professions, as per Statistics Canada. While the goods-producing sector
holds a smaller proportion, Canada’s manufacturing, oil, and petroleum industries have
consistently demonstrated modest yet stable annual growth in recent years.
Canada's Exceptional Education System
Canada distinguishes itself by channelling substantial per capita investments into education,
earning recognition as the world’s most educated nation. Its K-12 public education system
enjoys a reputation as one of the globe’s finest. Moreover, Canada is home to several world-
renowned universities, including McGill University, the University of Toronto, McMaster
University, and the University of British Columbia, all ranked among the top 100 institutions
worldwide. Statistics Canada reveals that 54% of Canadians between 25 and 64 hold post-
secondary degrees, with an additional 10.8% completing apprenticeships or trades
certificates. Several provinces provide full or partial tuition coverage for low-income
students, making higher education accessible.
Canada's Booming Tech Industry
Canada’s tech sector emerges as the nation’s fastest-growing industry, heralding a promising
future as the demand for tech professionals continues to surge. Government support and
investment in Canada’s tech sector remain robust, offering grants and resources to nurture
Canadian startups. Canada is swiftly emerging as a preferred destination for employers
seeking skilled tech talent. Toronto takes the lead, attracting giants such as Google’s
Sidewalk Labs, Shopify, Salesforce, and Facebook. Montreal, in its own right, quietly
establishes itself as a hub for innovation in AI and game development. Meanwhile,
Vancouver and Calgary earn accolades for innovation in clean technology, among other
sectors.
Universal Healthcare Access in Canada
Canada’s commitment to universal healthcare dates back to the 1960s. Under this program,
every province and territory within Canada offers residents unfettered access to medical
services without requiring out-of-pocket payments for hospital visits or consultations with
physicians. According to the OECD, Canada invested $6,323 per person in healthcare in 2017,
ranking significantly lower than the United States in per capita spending while delivering
notably higher quality care. Canada boasts one of the world’s highest life expectancy rates,
nearing 82 years, securing the nation’s 18th place in global rankings. This achievement is
attributed to reliable healthcare programs accessible to all residents.
Canada's Exemplary Workplace Benefits, Holidays, and Paid Leave
Canada stands out as a progressive nation with robust policies in place to safeguard
workers. It is the sole country in North America mandating vacation leave, guaranteeing all
employees two paid weeks of vacation, in addition to 6 to 10 statutory holidays depending
on the province. Canadians also enjoy access to various financial protections, including
Employment Insurance (EI), old-age security, the Canadian Pension Plan (CPP), and a federal
childcare benefit.
Canada’s minimum wage ranks among the highest globally, ranging from $11 to $14,
contingent on the province of residence. Canada’s maternity and parental leave policies also
reflect progressiveness, granting workers the freedom to take up to 18 months of parental
leave, with flexibility for both parents to share this leave.
Canada's Exemplary Safety and Stability
Canada’s banks have long held the distinction of being the world’s most stable, as per the
World Economic Forum’s assessments. Canadians can confidently entrust their finances to
major banks, knowing their money is secure. Remarkably, Canada has not experienced a
bank failure since 1983. Furthermore, Canada has adopted advanced PIN and chip
technology, significantly enhancing security compared to the magstripe cards still prevalent.
in the United States. Canadians are also forward-thinking in utilizing banking technology,
with 68% conducting their daily banking activities online or through mobile apps.
Canada's Exceptionally Stable Banking System
Canada’s banks have long held the distinction of being the world’s most stable, as per the
World Economic Forum’s assessments. Canadians can confidently entrust their finances to
major banks, knowing their money is secure. Remarkably, Canada has not experienced a
bank failure since 1983. Furthermore, Canada has adopted advanced PIN and chip
technology, significantly enhancing security compared to the magstripe cards still prevalent.
in the United States. Canadians are also forward-thinking in utilizing banking technology,
with 68% conducting their daily banking activities online or through mobile apps.
Canada's Enchanting Landscape and Quality of LifeCanada's Enchanting Landscape and Quality of Life
Canada boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, from the majestic mountains of British
Columbia to the scenic coastal views of Prince Edward Island, and the historic architecture of
Montreal. The country features hundreds of nationally protected parks, reserves, historical
sites, and hiking trails. Renowned sites like Banff and Jasper in Alberta, Cape Breton in Nova
Scotia, and Georgian Bay in Ontario captivate nature enthusiasts. Moreover, Canada’s
extensive coastline, stretching over 200,000 kilometres, surpasses that of any other nation
globally. Although not renowned for tropical beaches, Canada’s diverse coastal scenery
thrives during warmer seasons. Urban enthusiasts also find solace in the cleanliness and
charm of cities like Calgary and Toronto.
