Moving to Canada with your family: key steps for 2026

Understanding language in Canada

Canada is an attractive destination for those looking to relocate, thanks to its strong job market and openness to newcomers.

The country is officially bilingual, with English and French as its two official languages. In most provinces, English is the primary language, making it easy for English speakers to integrate both professionally and in everyday life.

However, it is important to note that certain regions  particularly Quebec  are predominantly French-speaking. In these areas, proficiency in French is often essential for working, communicating on a daily basis and fully integrating.

That said, this can also be a real advantage. Being bilingual opens up additional opportunities, especially in major cities and in certain industries.

Finally, Canada actively supports the development of French-speaking communities outside Quebec, contributing to a multicultural environment where international professionals can more easily find their place.

Why move to Canada in 2025?

Canada has become one of the most attractive destinations for those looking to start a new chapter abroad. With strong career opportunities, long-term stability and a high standard of living, it offers a balance that is increasingly sought after.

Here’s why more and more international professionals are choosing Canada:

• A strong economy: low unemployment (4.9%) and high demand for skilled workers across many sectors.
• An attractive lifestyle: modern cities combined with exceptional natural surroundings.
• A welcoming environment: an open culture and a smooth integration process for newcomers.
• An added advantage: the opportunity to live in a bilingual environment and develop French language skills, particularly in Quebec.

Whether you choose Montreal, Vancouver or Toronto, each region offers a unique lifestyle suited to a wide range of personal, family and professional plans.

Entry requirements for Canada

Canada is a welcoming country for newcomers and recognises the important role immigration plays in driving economic growth. Skilled and qualified professionals are particularly in demand. Entry requirements vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your stay.

For short stays (tourism or visits):

• UK and EU citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before departure.
• US citizens can enter with a valid passport, without prior authorization.

However, this does not permit settlement in Canada.

Individuals seeking to live, work or study in Canada are required to apply for the relevant visa or permit.

Depending on your plans, there are several immigration pathways to choose from, whether you are considering a temporary or permanent stay.The Express Entry system, for example, allows candidates to apply for permanent residency through a points-based system that considers experience, qualifications and language skills.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) also offer opportunities based on regional labour market needs.

Securing a job offer may allow you to obtain a work permit, although it does not automatically lead to permanent residency.

At Grospiron Mobility Solutions, we support you at every stage of your project, ensuring a smooth and well-managed relocation.

Understanding the different types of visas and permits

Immigration to Canada is based on several types of visas and permits, depending on your plans:

• Temporary work permit: for individuals with a confirmed job offer (often linked to a Labour Market Impact Assessment – LMIA). ~CAD 155 per person
• Open work permit: typically available for spouses of workers or international students. ~CAD 255
• Permanent residency: accessible through programmes such as Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). ~CAD 1,325
• Working Holiday Visa (WHV): designed for young adults aged 18 to 35 who wish to work while travelling in Canada. ~CAD 150
• Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): required for short-term stays (tourism or visits) for certain nationalities. ~CAD 7 (valid for 5 years)

Additional costs to consider:

• Biometrics: CAD 85 per person
• Medical examinations: typically between CAD 200 and 300
• Document translation and certification: approximately CAD 30 to 50 per page
• Legal assistance: between CAD 1,500 and 5,000, depending on the complexity of the case

Obtaining the appropriate visa and residency status is a key step in your relocation project. Grospiron Mobility Solutions, in partnership with its global network Harmony Relocation, supports you throughout the process to ensure a smooth and secure transition.

Proof of funds for immigration

For certain immigration pathways, particularly Express Entry it is necessary to demonstrate that sufficient financial resources are available to support oneself upon arrival in Canada.

Indicative minimum amounts:

• Single applicant: CAD 13,757
• Couple: CAD 17,127
• Family of four: CAD 25,564

These funds must be available as liquid assets and cannot include property or other investments.

Finding accommodation in Canada

Securing accommodation is an essential aspect of planning a move to Canada. The housing market can be competitive, particularly in major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal. Therefore, it is advisable to prepare in advance.

The following guide will assist you in identifying a property that meets your requirements and financial constraints.

Which option is more appropriate for you: renting or buying?

Renting in Canada :

Renting is often the preferred option for newcomers, as it offers greater flexibility and requires less upfront financial commitment.

• Lease terms: Most rental agreements are of a fixed term, typically 12 months, although month-to-month options may be available.
• Average rental costs :
  • One-bedroom apartment in a major city: CAD 1,500 to 2,500 per month
  • Two-bedroom apartment or house: CAD 2,000 to 4,000 per month
  • Outside major cities: rents can be up to 30% lower

Useful platforms to search for rental properties:

• RentBoard
• PadMapper
• Kijiji
• Realtor.ca

You can also choose to outsource your housing search to Grospiron Mobility Solutions. With our network of local real estate experts, we support you throughout the process to ensure a smooth and tailored experience.

• Personalised advice: We assist you in identifying the neighbourhood that best aligns with your lifestyle and priorities.
• Property selection and viewings: We organise bespoke viewings of carefully curated properties, ensuring full transparency throughout the process.
• We are pleased to offer comprehensive negotiation support: We leverage our expertise to secure the best lease terms while protecting your interests.

Collaborating with seasoned professionals can be a valuable strategy for reducing time spent on tasks, minimising stress, and facilitating well-informed decision-making !

Landlords may request:

• Proof of employment or income (pay slips or employment contract)
• A reference letter from a previous landlord (if applicable)
• A copy of your work permit or residency status

Security deposit: In most cases, landlords can only request one month’s rent as a deposit (rules may vary slightly by province).

Buying property in Canada :

If you are planning to stay long-term, purchasing a property may be a suitable option.

• Average property prices:
  • Toronto: around CAD 1,100,000
  • Vancouver: around CAD 1,400,000
  • Montreal: around CAD 550,000
• A down payment of 5% to 20% is typically required, along with proof of financial stability.
• Additional costs should also be considered, including property taxes, home insurance and, where applicable, condominium fees.

Good to know: Non-residents and newcomers may still be eligible for a mortgage, even without a Canadian credit history, provided they can demonstrate stable income and a higher deposit.

Where to live in Canada’s major cities

Choosing the right city and neighbourhood is a key part of a successful relocation. Each Canadian city offers a different lifestyle, cost of living and professional environment. Here’s an overview to help you decide where to settle.

Living in Montreal :

• Popular neighbourhoods: Plateau Mont-Royal, Rosemont, Outremont.
• Why choose Montreal: more affordable housing compared to other major cities, vibrant cultural scene and a strong French-speaking environment.

Living in Toronto :

• Popular neighbourhoods: Downtown, North York, Scarborough.
• Why choose Toronto: Canada’s economic hub, offering strong career opportunities across finance, tech and business services.

Living in Vancouver :

• Popular neighbourhoods: Kitsilano, Downtown, Richmond.
• Why choose Vancouver: exceptional natural surroundings (ocean and mountains) combined with a high quality of life.

Living in Ottawa :

• Popular neighbourhoods: Centretown, ByWard Market, Glebe.
• Why choose Ottawa: stable job market, high quality of life and more moderate housing costs.

Working in Canada: key steps

Finding a job is a crucial step in successfully settling in Canada. While English-speaking candidates benefit from easier integration, working in Canada still requires the right immigration status and an understanding of local hiring practices.

• Use the right platforms: Job Bank,LinkedIn and Indeed Canada are widely used by employers.
• Adapt your CV to Canadian standards: focus on achievements, measurable results and clearly defined skills., not include a photo, age or personal details is standard practice in Canada.
• Build your network: networking plays a key role in Canada connecting with local professionals and attending industry events can significantly improve your job prospects.

Understanding work permits and LMIA requirements

All individuals seeking to work in Canada are required to obtain a valid work permit, irrespective of their nationality.

In many cases, employers are required to secure a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). It is evident from this document that no Canadian candidate is currently available to fill the position.

Following the approval of the LMIA, a work permit may be applied for.

However, certain roles and immigration pathways allow candidates to work without an LMIA, depending on the situation.

The education system in Canada

When preparing to move to Canada, it is important to consider the educational planning for your children. The Canadian education system is renowned for its high standards, though these can vary depending on the province and city.

It is imperative to plan ahead, especially in major cities where places can be limited, particularly for younger children.

Understanding the Canadian education system

Canada has a decentralised education system, meaning each province manages its own schools. However, some general features apply across the country:

• Early childhood (0–5 years): daycare centres, nurseries or early childhood programmes depending on the province. Options include well-known providers such as BrightPath Child Care and Kids & Company.Places can be limited, so early registration is recommended. It’s costs approximately CAD 800 to 1,500 per month.
• Compulsory education: generally from ages 6 to 16 (up to 18 in some provinces).
• Language of instruction:
  • English in most parts of the country
  • French in Quebec
  • Bilingual or immersion programmes available in many regions
• School year: typically runs from September to June

The selection of the language of instruction is a pivotal factor in facilitating your child’s integration.

Education options for your children

Public schools 

Public schools are the most common option for families relocating to Canada.

• Access: free for permanent residents and most work permit holders
• Benefits: recognised quality, local proximity and fast integration
• Language: English or French depending on the region

These schools are managed by local school boards. For example:

• Toronto District School Board (TDSB)
• Vancouver School Board (VSB)
• English Montreal School Board (EMSB)

Many public schools also offer French immersion programmes, allowing children to become bilingual over time.

Private schools 

Private and international schools offer a more personalised approach, with smaller class sizes and specialised programmes (bilingual, international, etc.).

• Benefits: tailored education, specialised academic pathways and continuity for internationally mobile families
• Fees: typically range from CAD 6,000 to 20,000 per year, depending on the institution

Well-regarded institutions include:

• Upper Canada College (Toronto)
• Branksome Hall (Toronto)
• St. George’s School (Vancouver)
• Collège International Marie de France (Montreal)

These schools are particularly well-suited for those seeking an international environment or a specific academic pathway.

It is imperative to select an accredited institution to guarantee academic standards are met.

Healthcare and social coverage 

Access to Canada’s public healthcare system is dependent on your status and the province in which you settle. In Quebec, for instance, the RAMQ (Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec) is responsible for the provision of coverage, while other provinces have their own equivalent systems.

Permanent residents and certain permit holders (such as workers or students) may be eligible for public healthcare coverage, subject to registration and, in some cases, a waiting period. During this time, it is strongly recommended to take out private health insurance to avoid potentially high medical costs.

For those who are not eligible for public coverage, international health insurance is essential for comprehensive protection upon arrival.

It is also important to note that public healthcare does not cover all expenses. Please note that dental care, vision care and certain medications are often not included. In order to provide more comprehensive coverage, it may be advisable to consider taking out additional private insurance.

In the context of international assignments, specific situations may apply. Employees on assignment from a foreign company may remain covered by their home country’s health insurance system. However, accompanying family members or individuals not covered under such arrangements will generally need to register within the Canadian system and supplement their coverage with private insurance.

It is essential to plan these steps in advance to ensure access to healthcare from the moment you arrive.

Pets

Pets are allowed in Canada, provided that all relevant regulations are met (vaccination certificates, proof of ownership, etc.). Requirements may vary depending on the type of animal. For example, rabbits require an import permit and may be subject to quarantine upon arrival.

At Grospiron Mobility Solutions, we provide comprehensive relocation support to assist you at every stage of your move. Our services include help with housing and school searches, as well as guidance through administrative and customs procedures. We can also organise an orientation day to help you settle into your new environment and ensure a smooth transition to life in Canada.

Nos conseils pour une expatriation réussie

1. Planifiez tôt : commencez vos démarches administratives plusieurs mois à l’avance.
2. Faites appel à des experts : des entreprises comme Grospiron Mobility Solutions peuvent simplifier votre installation.
3. Renseignez-vous : chaque province a des règles spécifiques. Consultez les sites officiels (CIC, RAMQ) pour éviter les imprévus.

Comment organiser un déménagement dans le cadre d’une expatriation au Canada ?

Le déménagement est une étape souvent redoutée dans le processus d’expatriation, et qui doit être anticipée. Il faut trouver le déménageur international adéquat, capable de maîtriser toute l’opération de porte à porte. Grospiron Mobility Solutions peut vous accompagner, depuis l’enlèvement de vos biens personnels en France à votre installation dans votre nouveau domicile au Canada.

Nos propositions de pilotage de déménagement s’adressent :

• aux salariés des entreprises ;
• aux personnes désireuses de changer de vie, de commencer une nouvelle carrière ;
• aux personnes qui ont répondu à une offre d’emploi au Canada.

Nous apportons des solutions adaptées à vos besoins spécifiques, que vous bénéficiez d’une enveloppe budgétaire de votre entreprise pour gérer votre déménagement ou que vous le payez vous-même.

La solution de groupage : un service optimisé vers le Canada

Pour rendre votre déménagement vers le Canada (notamment Montréal) plus économique et pratique, Grospiron Mobility Solutions a mis en place sa propre solution de groupage, entièrement gérée en interne par nos équipes.

Qu’est-ce que le groupage ? C’est une méthode d’expédition qui consiste à regrouper les effets personnels de plusieurs clients dans un même conteneur maritime. Nous organisons, planifions et optimisons nous-mêmes le remplissage de ces conteneurs et nos tournées internationales.

Grâce à cette maîtrise complète de la logistique, cette solution est le moyen le plus économique et le plus pratique pour vous installer :

– L’aspect économique : le coût du transport international est partagé entre les différents clients, au prorata du volume transporté. Cela vous permet de réaliser des économies sur votre budget d’expatriation.– L’aspect pratique : Grospiron Mobility Solutions reste votre interlocuteur unique tout au long du processus. En internalisant cette étape clé, nous sommes le véritable maître d’œuvre vous garantissant un service maîtrisé. Cette optimisation des volumes contribue également à réduire l’impact environnemental de votre déménagement.

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