Moved to Canada from Europe? Let me know how you feel
Posted by Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit | expats | View on Reddit | 46 comments
Hi, its my first time posting here and I am sorry if this post is not in the correct group. It's all new to me. But cutting to the chase;
I hold an EU passport, live in Europe (originally from Easter Europe, lived and work in few Wester EU countries) and consider moving to Canada. I struggle to find recent posts about it with feedback from people who did such move - most of the post are US -Canada and I don't think its the same thing.
So, I have two options - I work for one of the big tech companies and they can relocate me or I can apply for express entry. Moving to Canada was my childhood dream but now that I aint getting younger I wonder if I should go for it.
So fellow Europeans - how do you feel about Canada? Are you happy there? What was your biggest challenge when settling? Did you manage to build your "inner circle"? Do you feel like your quality of life worse? Hit me up with your thoughts. Thank you
Sounders1@reddit
Vancouver is a stunning city and much warmer than Toronto. It's probably the most beautiful city in North America imo. It's very diverse, has great food, tons of museums, and fantastic skiing very close. The negatives are it's expensive and can have dreary weather in the winter. I'd choose Vancouver over Toronto.
FinestTreesInDa7Seas@reddit
Vancouver is only warmer than Toronto during the winter. During the summer Toronto is significantly warmer than Vancouver.
Infact Vancouver is one of the milder cities in Canada during the summer. Much of the interior of Canada is wamer than Vancouver in the summer.
And it wouldn't be fair to talk about Vancouver's climate without mentioning how absolutely miserable the weather can be there. It rains for a significant part of the winter, and even in the summer Vancouver has far fewer sunlight hours than most of Canada.
Vancouver is indeed a beautiful city, but the weather is not ideal.
I would add a number of negatives to that list:
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
Thank you. I see very mixed opinions on the both cities. sometimes its challenging to find the right answers. Thnak you for your feedback. I find it very helpful, especially about the transport - I dont drive, I mean I can but I hate it so its a valid point for me.
FinestTreesInDa7Seas@reddit
Personally, I much prefer Western Canada, and the BC coast is my ideal part of Canada.
But objectively speaking, Toronto is the better city to live in. They're both expensive cities, but Toronto is more affordable. Toronto also has better public transit, better local culture, better food, and you can thrive without a car in Toronto.
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
The food part speaks to me :D although I am not sure if Toronto is as outdoorsy as Vancouver? I was thinking about your previous comment and the weather is something that makes me miserable now so I really reconsider (especially the outsoorsy?). I don't mind winter, but rain is my biggest enemy. I will look a bit more into BC coast - it seems very interesting and also beautiful.
FinestTreesInDa7Seas@reddit
Both cities have a good selection of outdoorsy amenities both inside the city and in the surrounding area:
Vancouver is definitely more scenic, and has much more visually impressive outdoors amenities. With more elevation changes, Vancouver has better hiking, and there's a good amount of skiing/snowboarding options nearby.
Also, Vancouver's local culture is very much centred around outdoors activities. Most people you meet there will be into some kind of outdoors activity.
Toronto isn't lacking in outdoor activities, but the landscape is just less interesting. Toronto has lots of great parks, and there's also a number of really nice locations nearby the city to visit.
If you have any hope of visiting any lakes and cottage areas, the areas around Toronto have a reputation of being very private and exclusive to wealthy people. Vancouver has more options available to everyone, and FAR more selection.
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
Fair. It makes sense now. I love hiking and as long as I can make it to see something beautiful- that’s just an addition! Is Toronto bike friendly?
FinestTreesInDa7Seas@reddit
Toronto is a very bike friendly city. But I would say that Vancouver is better for a few reasons. The main reason being that you can bike all year in Vancouver. Unless you're into winter cycling, you probably won't want to bike in the winter in Toronto.
Both cities have a good amount of bike paths, but Vancouver has more of the city connected with bike infrastructure, and some areas of Toronto are noticeably not connected well.
But the shortcomings of Toronto's cycling infrastructure would probably not be noticed by someone who lives and works in the city core. Most of the issues are related to Toronto's large size, and having suburbs with poor cycling infrastructure.
Both cities have good bike sharing services too. I haven't lived in either of these cities in the past few years, so I don't know how these services have grown. As a recent visitor of both cities, I think Toronto's bike sharing service is much better.
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
Upon making my research I stumbled upon many information about Toronto having an awful traffic so Iwas thinking of biking instead. I am not very much in favour of driving in the city anyways so I leave it for more adventurous places outside of the city. Thnak you FinestTreesInDa7Seas for answering all my questions thoroughly, I really appreciate it.
CuriousLands@reddit
I have heard these days though that Toronto isn't exactly a good representation of Canadian culture, though. If OP wants to experience Canada, like "classic" Canada, it seems Toronto is the worst place for that.
FinestTreesInDa7Seas@reddit
As much as I personally dislike Toronto, I can't agree with that statement myself. Canada contains a number of regional cultures, and Toronto is just one of them.
Someone in western Canada would probably say that Toronto isn't an example of their culture, but it's definitely some kind of Canadian culture.
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
Hello CuriousLands - my plan is to go there, I might get relocated so where I end up is a big surprise, however the plan would be later on to actually move and choose the place where I want to settle. I guess with Toronto being a business city and mixed with plenty of foreigners it might really not have the essence of Canada, I did not think of that. It's not a bad start I think tho - its like a pre entry exams :D. Thnak you for your input!
CuriousLands@reddit
Yeah, I often point that out because a) I think it's worth knowing, and b) I see a fair few expats on here feel disappointed with their time in Canada, but they're almost always in either Vancouver or Toronto.
I think if you're alright to just get your foot in the door, built some cash and experience, and then see where else you might like to go, Toronto could be fine :) There's a bit of cultural variation across the country.... I guess seeing as how you're in Eastern Europe somewhere, my first thought was that you might like the Prairies, or perhaps the east coast. But yeah start out wherever makes sense for you, you can always try somewhere else if you don't love it :P
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
Yeah I am Eastern European but I live in Wester Europe after living in different places in EU and Asia so moving is not a scary thing for me :D I would actually like, as you said, get inside the country, be able to visit places around for a longer while and then decide what to do next. It's not the same when you just visit for a 5 days trip from abroad and suddnly move yourlife there afterwards (believe me, speaking out of experience :D) so not sure where will I end up. I will look into East cost tho :D you made me curious now! :D Thanks
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
Thank you! I am moving from a really expensive city with massive housing crisis, so the costs don't scare me really. I would actually prefer Vancouver, I am just not sure if I will be able to relocate there, therefore I might have to start with Toronto, but I would prefer Vancouver as well.
hyterus@reddit
When I came from Eastern Europe to Canada over 30 years ago, it was a dream land. One could comfortably live here on a one person's salary. A young professional's startup annual salary was around $40,000. You could rent a nice 150 m² apartment for $500 a month. You could buy a house, a new built house, for $150,00 - $300,00. There were fancy stores (Sears, Eatons, Bay and all kinds of shopping malls) all over the country. Cars were affordable and gas was cheap. You could find your new family doctor in a day. Food was quite affordable and a family could easily live on $1000 a month. You could live a decent live when only one person in the family worked.
Fast forward to 2026...
It's a different country.
A young professional can now get perhaps $60,000-$80,000. But the cost of living went up tremendously. The $500 apartment costs now $2,500 a month. You will not find nice house in central Ontario for less than a million. The fancy stores all disappeared and were replaced by "dollar stores" and Walmarts. Cars cost a fortune. Finding a family doctor is like winning a lottery. The cost of living went up so much that a family of 4 can hardly make ends meet on $200,000 annual income. Two people in a family have to work now.
The key to surviving here now is a very good paying job. Or slot of savings. If you find a job that is going to pay you $150,000+ annually, you will live and after 3-4 years you will call Canada your new home. Less than that, you will be for a very hard startup. You need to live away from central cities and work a lot. The first few years will be difficult. No one will recognize your educational credentials and they will ask if you have "Canadian experience". Even your driving license will not be recognized. No Canadian experience: no job, no driving.
The best approach in my opinion would be to come here for few months to get a taste of life here. Put aside $10,000, come here, rent a place, buy a car. See how you like it. Have an exit strategy !
You can drive here for 6 months on your international driving license. After that you must get a Canadian one.
Good luck to you !
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
Thnak you for your input Hyterus. I get the golden glow of the past, especially that I am Eastern European too and I truly relate to what you might have seen 30 years ago in there and how different from EE Canada was back then.
But truth be told - it's not the same as 30 years ago anywhere - some countries developed and some went down the hill. I think it became expensive and hard everywhere nowadays. I feel like grass is always greener on the other side of the fence. From your description I feel like where I am now has almost the same struggle, therefore the Canadian one does not scare me, but I must say I am better situated than a regular mortal :D I was very young when I started investing in my future and as per my Easter European blood I can survive everywhere :D I might go for it and actually try booking a ticket one way to stay for a while in there to see for myself, rather than just for couple of days like you suggested, I think it might be a real decisive factor. Thnak you for your wishes too.
Initial_Bit_4258@reddit
Keep in mind the flights from Canada back to into Europe. Much longer and more expensive from the west coast of Canada, usually the hop is from Vancouver -> (4-5hour flight) to Montreal or Toronto -> (9-10 hour flight) to Frankfurt or Paris -> elsewhere in Europe. Also, bigger cities are good landing points as far as transit goes, outside of big cities it will be cheaper but you’ll 100% need a car.
I recently did the reversal immigration — Canada to Europe and am pretty aware of the cultural differences and adjustments to living. Happy to answer any further questions you may have.
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
The flights are something I keep in mind, at the same time I have experienced with long distances cause my husband is from Latin America and the distances we have in Europe where you drive 5 hours and you’re in a different country are abstract there😆
Regarding views - I can only imagine the difference in scale and everything but don’t give up on looking for gems around Europe - I find it that the most beautiful places are very often hidden, closed off to majority of tourists
Do you feel like you are not well understood in the country you’re in now? Like is your way of expressing yourself much different and taken like more laid off or maybe the other way around, more aggressive? How do people react when you say you’re Canadian? I’m a bit scared people might see me in a negative way as an Eastern European in Canada or simply as „yet another immigrant”.
Initial_Bit_4258@reddit
This is such a thoughtful question. I think when you live somewhere that isn’t your home country, there are moments where you’re not fully understood in the same way, and that’s pretty normal. But it also really depends on the people and the environment you’re in. Some places and communities are much more open and curious, especially in diverse cities.
I’ve found that making an effort with the language and culture goes a long way, not in a you have to be perfect way, but just showing that you care. You probably won’t have the exact same sense of ease as you would at home right away, but over time you can build something that feels just as meaningful, just different.
As for how people react, honestly, in my experience, it’s usually neutral to positive. Most people don’t think too deeply about it day to day. Canada especially is very used to people coming from different backgrounds, so being “another immigrant” isn’t really seen as a negative thing in most contexts. It’s more about how you connect with people individually.
And for what it’s worth, Europeans often stand out in a good way. People tend to be genuinely interested in your background, languages, and experiences. I wouldn’t stress too much about being judged for it.
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
Thank you, it calms me down a bit. And what would you say was your biggest shock when moving? Like you said to yourself "hey, we don't do it back in Canada" or sth like that? Did you have this moment of like "oh yeah, thats he cultural difference"
KostyaFedot@reddit
Canada is in terrible shape. Including jobs. Check Toronto Jobs, for example.
I left it back to Europe in 2023.
You could check on YouTube why people leave by entering "Why I left Canada ".
Couver and Torono are overpriced and full of hopeless people. I don't see it Europe in such numbers.
Book a flight and check it by ourself.
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
I think my reply did not save :D Where I move from, the situation is as you describe - people are being miserable. The cost of housing is over the roof, the groceries are getting expensive and the job stability is non existent. Is seems like a paradise - but only from outside. Once you're in the charm is gone. So I will move, just the question is what's the next stop. Thank you for your input.
sally_says@reddit
I've lived in Vancouver and Toronto for years before returning to the UK in the last two. And I'm surprised at how negative some people are being about them. The cost of living in both is definitely high, the rents are high too, but both are incredible cities (Vancouver especially, for me). However I would recommend Toronto for jobs over Vancouver, unless your industry is concentrated in the latter.
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
Thank you Sally. I guess moving places simply sometimes leave a scar on people. I try to filter all the information I get. I work in IT, so I would say its more flexible than other industries? So not sure now, Vancouver seems to be breathtaking but Toronto, allegedly, has a better food scene I am one of a foodie :D so funny enough, the food convinces me hehe. But Im very poutdoorsy and I feel like Vancoucer had more to offer in this matter
sally_says@reddit
Vancouver is breathtaking and very outdoorsy compared to Toronto. But Toronto is larger and more dense. Vancouver's downtown is very small in comparison and is mostly suburbs. But I'm sure you'll make the right choice.
I think experiencing living in Canada is worth it. I'm still very fond of it and hope I have an excuse to go back eventually.
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
When I move I will let you know and you will visit me :D but bring some Cadbury!
CoffeeInTheTropics@reddit
Job security, worker's rights and social welfare system is unmatched in most Western EU countries. And (universal) healthcare is so much better there as well compared to Canada nowadays. The country is indeed in a bad shape. :-(
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
I do not see the job security you're talking about in EU anymore, honest. With layoffs everywhere, lot of young people entering the market and not being able to find a job, anfd then a very high competition and way too many people for one job position along with companies ghosting applicants - its crazy but maybe it's a specific thing for IT. Surprisingly Ive found it better in Eastern Europe - the money is not the same but the purchase value was higher.
The social healthcare is not something I would consider anywhere - Ive tried it in several countries and no thanks, I prefer to pay honestly.
I need to look into workers rights - its important for me and I did not focus on this too much, so thank you for pointing that out!
KostyaFedot@reddit
I moved to Europe. It is way better than Canuckistan. Not all Europe is same. But Canada is.
Ok-Masterpiece-7671@reddit
Canuckistan?
KostyaFedot@reddit
Google?
nathingz@reddit
Where in Canada would you move to? Which country are you moving from?
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
I have just updated the post. I should have specified, truth. Upon making a research, I think best for me would be Toronto or Vancouver. I am aware these are expensive cities but this is my "entry" option to enter the country and I can later on settle elsewhere.
Why moving? Because I am still young and even if sth falls apart I still can come back to my home country. I do not chase money at this point. I want the experience but also I would love to explore the country from within
CuriousLands@reddit
Well I think if those are the reasons you wanna go, and you figure your chances are no worse in Toronto or Vancouver than in your home country, I don't see why you shouldn't. Like you said, it's a bit of a dream of yours, and you probably won't wanna do this later in life.
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
You see, I've mover around a bit and despite everything you can see or hear about Europe - absolutely nowhere is a paradise. Every place has its pros and cons. At the moment I am in one of the most expensive cities in EU and high cost of living dont scare me. I was wondering more if Canada makes a very huge 'culture clash' once you move. I am a very social person, never struggled to find my inner circle and Ive moved quite a lot so I just wonder if it also would be the same. But you're definitely right :) I am like 90% sure I will give it a go.
CuriousLands@reddit
Yep you're right, it's just pros and cons everywhere and trying to find a place that fits your needs and preferences. And while I haven't been to the EU, from what I've seen, it does seem that broadly speaking, a lot of the issues Canada has, much of the EU also has in some way or another. So if it's just about experience and adventure, then maybe it's a decent idea haha.
I think there will always be some culture clash - I moved to Australia from Canada and experienced it, even though they're relatively similar countries. What country are you in right now?
I guess with socializing, I have heard that in the bigger cities (Vancouver especially) people can be a little hard to connect with. On the other hand, I've heard that Toronto these days is barely even Canadian anymore, like literally half the people there weren't born in Canada - so if you're hoping to get a really good taste of classic Canadian culture, you should take any experiences in Toronto with a grain of salt. In general, I think people are friendly, but because so many people are busy with work, maybe kids, etc, on top of the friends and family they already have, it may be a little challenging to break into a friend group or form your own. But I think that's often true in many countries, once you start working. Personally, when I still lived there, I had the most success with hobby groups and churches (if that's your speed).
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
Yeah, it might seems great from a far but there are major issues in EU now - different countries struggle with different categories, but housing crisis exists everywhere. After covid and war in Ukraine it went way worse than before. Recently, the job market shrinks and this leaves a lot of unemployed people in sometimes very small markets so the competition is massive. Some countries struggle with unregulated migration and that causes unsafety as not everybody wants to socialize and become the part of society they come join. In some countries drug problem is increasing. Birth-rate is very low. Unemployment is getting higher. Homelessness, cost of living - its all there, its just hard for some people to see above the tip of their nose. I think once you are aware of this issues you become more flexible and try to see more brighter sides of things.
At the moment I'm in Ireland - seems like a paradise on the paper, reality is way different. Also similar to what you say about Canada - people here rather have their own circles and it was quite challenging to squeeze in, but there is plenty of expats that are easy to befriend. Also, I am at the age I appreciate my peace of mind so having two friends is more than enough for me :) :D I need my speel time at 9 PM :D and one cocktail makes me drunk so socializing but old people style hehe.
Which city in Canada would you recommend ?
me_using_reddit@reddit
I’ve moved between EU (Paris / Berlin) to Canada (Montreal / Toronto) a few times. Theres pros/cons to both - ultimately it really depends on your goals.
Overall I will say quality of life is higher in EU (but depends on the city) however the career opportunities in CA (but it highly depends on the industry, e.g. in tech, ib, etc).
The grass is always greener - there’s no el-dorado in either country.
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
I absolutely agree with you - it very much depends on a goal. Thank you for your input.
Level-Brain-4786@reddit
Moved to Canada 30 years ago at age 27. Moved from Moscow to Vancouver. The biggest driver was to experience change, something new, hopefully great etc. Initially, for the first 5-7 years it felt OK. Not much different, but OK. Then gradually things started to deteriorate: social fabric, medical services, standards of living, comfort, sense of belonging etc. Today I regret making that choice back then, but I can’t roll back time and effort invested into the country. I retired at 55 though and am on my search for the next great adventure elsewhere.
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
Thank you for your input. I hope you will find a place that will make your retirement more enjoyable :)
Suntouo@reddit
I feel like shit and went broke. I work remotely so
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
I'm very sorry you went though that. May I ask where did you move to in Canada?
Throwawayboxx@reddit
It’s a big place. Where do you want to go exactly?
Illustrious-Bowl6844@reddit (OP)
I should have specified, truth. Upon making a research, I think best for me would be Toronto or Vancouver. I am aware these are expensive cities but this is my "entry" option to enter the country and I can later on settle elsewhere.