Living and working in Canada
Canada has very diverse communities and great food from all over the world, reasonably priced housing, and stunning nature. You’re guaranteed a slower pace and high quality of life.
Canada equals an amazing experience, regardless of your interests – foodies on a mission, city explorers, or nature lovers. Are you ready to jump right in?
Latest available jobs in Canada
Vietnamese Online Game Presenter – Toronto
We are hiring Online Game Hosts to work in Toronto, Canada. Fluent in Vietnamese and with good communication skills, you will lead games, interact with players, and entertain in front of the camera. No specific experience required, but a passion for customer service is a plus.
Indonesian Online Game Presenter – Toronto
We are hiring Online Game Hosts to work in Toronto, Canada. Fluent in Indonesian and with good communication skills, you will lead games, interact with players, and entertain in front of the camera. No specific experience required, but a passion for customer service is a plus.
Currency
Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD) as the official currency
Famous people
Some famous Canadian people are Celine Dion, Shawn Mendes & Ryan Reynolds
Population
Canada has ~38,5 million residents, and the most populated city is Toronto
Typical food
Maple syrup, timbits, butter tarts, and poutine (French fries smothered with gravy and cheese curds)
Avg. working week
Canada has a 37,5 hours work week (compared to the OECD of 40.6 hours)
Location
Canada is located in North America, bordering the United States to the south
Languages
The official languages in Canada are English and French, they use Latin script
Healthcare
Canada has a universal healthcare system funded by the government. Read more below
What you need to know about living and working in Canada
Canada’s stunning landscapes, welcoming communities, and exciting cities make it a dream destination for adventurers. There are four distinct seasons throughout the year, and they have a strong job market and a delicious multicultural cuisine. However, the cost of living varies depending on your chosen city. The smaller towns has cheaper options compared to the big cities, just like everywhere else in the world. While Canada’s universal healthcare system provides coverage, private insurance might be beneficial for faster access to non-emergency treatments. Canada has a progressive tax system, where those with higher incomes contribute a larger share. French is commonly spoken in Quebec, but English is spoken in most of the country, making Canada a bilingual nation.
Canada is the perfect destination for you if you love:
- Hiking up beautiful mountains, kayaking through turquoise lakes, or walking through huge forests.
- Delicious and affordable food.
- Ancient ruins, charming towns, and big cities with plenty of history and cultural experiences.
What is it like to work in Canada?
Canada provides a nice work environment with a good work-life balance, strong worker rights, and opportunities for professional development. The average workweek is 37.5 hours, and employees are legally entitled to a minimum of two weeks of paid vacation after one year of employment. The work culture is respectful and collaborative, with a fairly flat hierarchy. Canada has strong worker rights, including minimum wage standards, fair pay practices, and the right to join a union for collective bargaining.
Competitive compensation packages, including health insurance, dental insurance, vision care, and employer-matched contributions to retirement savings plans, are available. Companies also focus on professional development through training programs, tuition assistance, and conferences. Check our current jobs in Canada and see if we have a match for you.
Taxes in Canada
Canada has a progressive tax system, meaning those who earn more pay a larger share of their income in taxes. Here are the key things to know about taxes in Canada as a newcomer:
Types of taxes:
- Federal income tax: The federal government collects income tax from all residents on their worldwide income. Tax rates are progressive, with higher earners paying a higher percentage.
- Provincial income tax: Most provinces also have their own income tax rates, which are added on top of the federal tax. Provincial tax rates vary by province.
- Sales tax: Canada has a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 5% at the federal level. Some provinces also add a Provincial Sales Tax (PST) on top of the GST. The combined rate (GST + PST) is referred to as the Harmonised Sales Tax (HST) in some provinces.
Filing your tax return:
- As a resident of Canada, you are generally required to file an income tax return each year, even if you don’t owe any taxes.
- The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is the government agency responsible for collecting taxes. They offer resources and information to help you file your return. Consider consulting a tax professional for personalised advice, especially in your first year as a resident.
Things to know:
- Tax deductions and credits: The Canadian tax system offers various deductions and credits that can help reduce your tax bill. These can include things like medical expenses, charitable donations, and employment-related costs.
- Social Insurance Number (SIN): You will need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work legally in Canada and file your tax return. You can apply for a SIN after you arrive in Canada.
- Tax treaties: Canada has tax treaties with many countries. These treaties can help avoid double taxation on your income.
Resources:
- Canada Revenue Agency: The CRA website is a valuable resource for information on taxes in Canada, including tax rates, filing requirements, and deductions/credit.
- Set up your CRA My Account: This online portal allows you to view your tax information, file your return electronically, and make payments.
Remember, tax laws can be complex. Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you have any questions about your specific tax situation.
How can I find housing in Canada?
- Online listings: Websites like Kijiji, Craigslist, and Realtor.ca offer a wealth of rental and purchase listings across Canada. You can filter by location, price range, and property type.
- Property management companies: Many companies manage rental properties. Check their websites or contact them directly for available listings.
- Newspapers and local classifieds: While less common, traditional avenues like local newspapers can still hold useful listings.
Speak to one of our recruiters
Life in Canada
Canada is considered a very safe place to live, and actually one of the world’s safest countries. So you can relax no matter if you’re travelling alone, planning to raise a family, pursuing your passions, or unwinding. Canada has cheap costs of living, especially in smaller towns, compared to other developed countries.
Canada is the perfect place for you if you’re eager for adventure, opportunity, and welcoming people. You can easily get a good job, explore stunning nature, and live a life full of possibilities here.
Typical Canadian food
While Canada might be known for its maple syrup and poutine (we’ll get back to that!), you’re in for a very flavourful adventure when you move here. Canadian cuisine is a delicious combination from different cultures. You will find anything from French-Canadian classics like tourtière (a meat pie) to Indian curries and Vietnamese pho. Of course, we can’t forget about the iconic dishes! Poutine, a combination of fries, cheese curds, and gravy, is a Canadian comfort food that you simply have to try. And for a sweet treat, maple syrup! It’s also very common to go to farmers’ markets to buy fresh produce, and when you’re off work you have endless options to find hidden gem restaurants, and enjoy the unique flavours that make Canadian cuisine so unforgettable.
Still not convinced about Canada?
Maybe you’ve heard rumors about rough winters or sky-high prices. While Canada does have its seasons and some pricier cities, you shouldn’t let that hold you back from an incredible adventure. Let’s talk about some common misconceptions and show you why Canada might be the perfect fit:
Myth #1: Canada is freezing cold all year round. Sure, Canada has winters, but they’re magical. You’ll get cosy nights by the fireplace, amazing winter sports, and stunning snowy nature. Plus, summers are just amazing with warm weather perfect for exploring or relaxing outdoors.
Myth #2: Canada is only for outdoor enthusiasts. While nature lovers will find paradise here, Canada offers so much more. You will also find big city life with world-class museums and fun nightlife.
Myth #3: Canada is super expensive. The cost of living varies across the country. While bigger cities can be pricier, Canada offers plenty of affordable options, especially in smaller towns.
Myth #4: It’s hard to make friends in Canada. Canadians are known for their friendliness and welcoming nature. From social community events to joining local clubs, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to connect with people who share your interests.
So, ditch the misconceptions and see Canada for what it truly is: a country of opportunity, natural beauty, and a warm, welcoming spirit.
FAQ
Yes, typically an EU citizen will still need a work permit to work legally in Canada. However, there may be exceptions depending on the type of work and any agreements between Canada and your specific EU country. It’s best to check with Canadian immigration resources for the most up-to-date information.
English is one of Canada’s two official languages and is spoken widely across most of the country. However, French is the dominant language in Quebec. While English fluency will get you by in most situations, learning some basic French can be helpful, especially in Quebec or bilingual positions.
Canada has four distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm and sunny, with some regions experiencing hotter temperatures. Winters can be cold and snowy, particularly in central and northern areas. Spring and fall offer beautiful seasons with mild temperatures.
The best mode of transportation depends on where you live and your needs. Major cities have extensive public transportation networks with subways, buses, and light rail. Smaller towns may rely on buses or offer dedicated commuter routes. Cars are common, especially in rural areas, but gas prices and parking costs can be a consideration. Cycling is a popular option in many cities during warmer months.
There are different ways to learn the English and French, based on your budget and preferred learning style. Language schools, university and apps like Duolingo, Memrise, and Babbel for casual learning, websites and YouTube channels, and language exchange programmes like HelloTalk and Tandem are all formal ways to learn a language. Immersion is also important because it lets you really get into the language by watching Canadian films, listening to Canadian music, and reading Canadian books or newspapers.
To get better at the Canadian language, pay attention to how English and French are different, learn basic greetings and everyday words, and see mistakes as chances to get better. To improve your Canadian language skills, you need to practise regularly and find a method that works for you.