25 Challenges of Moving to Canada

Have you ever wondered what the biggest challenges of moving to Canada are?

Moving to a new country is an exciting adventure, but it’s not always easy. While we often focus on the positive aspects, the reality is that settling in a new place comes with its share of obstacles.

In this post, I’ll walk you through 25 challenges of moving to Canada, sharing my personal experiences and tips on how to navigate them. Some of these I’ve already overcome, while others are still a work in progress.

I wish I could say you won’t face any of these challenges, but chances are, you’ll experience at least a few. So, let’s dive in!

1. Opening a Bank Account

One of the first things I had to do after arriving in Canada was open a bank account. I walked into a traditional bank with my work permit and passport, and they set up my checking account without any issues. However, I quickly hit a roadblock—I wasn’t approved for a credit card because I had no Canadian credit history.

I had to start with a secured credit card, where I deposited money upfront to set my credit limit. It wasn’t ideal, but it was a necessary step to build my Canadian credit score.

My advice? Don’t overthink it. Accept that you’re starting from scratch, get a secured card, and make small purchases while paying it off frequently. Over time, your credit score will improve, and better financial options will open up.

If you want to keep track of your credit score, I highly recommend using Borrowell, a free platform that allows you to monitor your progress without affecting your score.

After a year of banking with a traditional institution, I switched to a fully digital bank with better cashback options and a much smoother application process.

If I could go back, I’d explore these options from the beginning! If you’re looking for a newcomer-friendly banking alternative, check out Neo Financial —they offer great cashback rewards and even secured credit card options to help build your credit faster.

2. Understanding the Canadian Credit Score System

If you’re used to a system where paying your bills on time is enough to boost your credit, Canada’s system might surprise you.

Here, your credit score depends on factors like how long you’ve had a credit card, how much of your limit you use (ideally under 30%), and timely payments.

It takes time to build a good credit score, and at first, it can be frustrating. I recommend using Borrowell to track your progress—it’s free and won’t impact your score. Be patient, and don’t let the system discourage you!

3. The Never-Ending Paperwork

One of the biggest challenges of moving to Canada is dealing with the overwhelming amount of paperwork. From health cards and driver’s licenses to local IDs and permits, it feels like there’s always another form to fill out. Each step takes time, and at first, it can feel like an endless process.

The best approach? Take it one step at a time. Instead of trying to do everything at once, prioritize what you need first.

Make a checklist, gather the required documents, and tackle each task gradually. I know it’s frustrating, but once you get through the initial wave of bureaucracy, things start to feel more manageable.

In fact, this was one of the reasons I started my blog—to help others navigate these processes without feeling lost!

4. Unexpected Delays with Permits

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that immigration timelines don’t always go as planned. We were waiting for my partner Aldo’s work permit extension, which was originally supposed to take four months but in the end it took 6 months.

These delays can be incredibly frustrating, especially when they impact your ability to work or plan for the future. For a long time, we were covering all expenses with just one salary, which adds financial stress.

My biggest piece of advice? Always expect delays and make sure you have some financial cushion to cover unexpected waiting periods.

5. Finding Housing

Finding a home in Canada isn’t as straightforward as you might think. If you don’t have a rental history in Canada or a local job reference, many landlords may hesitate to rent to you. The process can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating different rental requirements and paperwork.

One of the best ways to simplify things is to work with a realtor. I learned that as a tenant, you don’t pay the realtor’s commission—the landlord does! This makes hiring a realtor an easy and smart decision. They’ll guide you through the process, show you multiple listings in one go, and even help you prepare the paperwork. It saved us so much time and stress.

If you’re in the process of looking for a place to live, I highly recommend checking out How to Rent Your First Home as a Newcomer in Canada, where I share a step-by-step guide based on my experience. This post covers everything from understanding lease agreements to preparing the right documents, making your rental search much easier!

6. Making Friends Can Be Hard

Back home, making friends came naturally—people were warm and welcoming. When I moved to Canada, I quickly realized that most people already had their established social circles, making it harder to connect.

For weeks, I ate lunch alone at work. One day, I decided to bring some vegan candies as an icebreaker, and little by little, people started chatting with me. After that, I started having lunch with at least one coworker. Sometimes, small gestures go a long way!

7. Dealing with Language Barriers

Even if you already speak English, one of the biggest challenges of moving to Canada is adapting to the different accents, slang, and fast-paced conversations. At first, I struggled to keep up, especially when people spoke quickly. I would nod along, hoping I was understanding correctly, but deep down, I felt nervous about making mistakes or not responding properly.

Over time, I learned that it’s completely normal to ask people to repeat themselves or slow down. Most Canadians are incredibly patient and won’t mind clarifying if you didn’t catch something. Instead of feeling embarrassed, I started seeing it as a learning opportunity. The more conversations I had, the easier it became to understand different accents and express myself more confidently.

If you’re facing this challenge, give yourself grace. Learning a language is about real-world practice, and that takes time. The more you engage in conversations, the more natural it will feel.

8. Your Name Is Not Pronounced Correctly

One of the challenges of moving to Canada that I hadn’t really considered before arriving was how often my name would be mispronounced. At first, I didn’t think much of it. If someone called me by a name that sounded close enough, I just went along with it. But over time, I started to feel a little disconnected—almost as if I was responding to a name that wasn’t truly mine.

One day, a co-worker pointed out something that really stuck with me: “Your name is part of your identity. You should teach people how to say it correctly.” That simple comment shifted my perspective. My name is a reflection of my culture, my background, and who I am. Why should I let it be mispronounced just to avoid an awkward moment?

From that day on, I made a conscious effort to politely correct people and help them pronounce my name properly. And you know what? Most people were happy to learn! After that, most of my co-workers said my name correctly, and I felt more like myself in conversations.

If you’re facing this challenge, I encourage you to take ownership of your name. You don’t have to accept an incorrect version just because you’re in a new country. A simple, friendly correction can go a long way in helping people get it right—and it reinforces that your identity and culture matter, no matter where you are.

9. Different Accents

One of the challenges of moving to Canada is adapting to the wide variety of accents you’ll encounter. Since Canada is such a multicultural country, you’ll meet people from all over the world, each with their own way of speaking English. At first, this can feel overwhelming—there were moments when I struggled to understand what someone was saying, even though we were both speaking the same language.

The good news? It gets easier with time. The more conversations you have, the more familiar different accents will become. Just as you are adjusting to the way others speak, they are also adjusting to your accent.

A helpful tip is to focus on context and body language when you’re struggling to understand someone. If needed, don’t hesitate to ask them to repeat what they said—most people are patient and happy to clarify.

Rather than seeing it as a challenge, think of it as an opportunity to improve your listening skills and expand your understanding of global English. With time, you’ll realize that communication is about connection, not just perfect pronunciation.

10. Inappropriate Comments

One of the challenges of moving to Canada is occasionally encountering inappropriate or ignorant comments about being a newcomer. While Canada is generally a welcoming and diverse country, there may be moments when someone makes an offhand remark that can feel uncomfortable or even offensive.

The only comment I’ve personally faced was someone implying that newcomers take advantage of the system. It caught me off guard, and in that moment, I didn’t know how to respond. But instead of dwelling on it, I reminded myself that this perspective comes from a place of misunderstanding, not reality.

Rather than seeing these moments as discouraging, I’ve used them as opportunities to learn about diversity, inclusion, and different perspectives. Living in Canada has exposed me to a wide range of cultures, religions, and traditions, helping me understand concepts I wasn’t as familiar with before—like microaggressions, unconscious bias, and the importance of cultural awareness.

If you ever find yourself in a situation where someone makes an inappropriate comment, remember that you don’t have to engage in negativity. You can choose to educate, ignore, or simply move forward, knowing that the vast majority of people in Canada are open-minded and supportive of newcomers.

11. Missing Loved Ones

One of the most emotional challenges of moving to Canada is being far from family and close friends. If you have a strong attachment to your loved ones, the distance can feel overwhelming at times. No matter how exciting your new life is, there will be moments when you miss the familiar comfort of home—the casual gatherings, shared meals, and special celebrations.

I have a little niece in Chile, and she is growing up so fast. Every time I see photos or videos of her, I wish I could be there to experience those moments in person. But I remind myself that this is the path I chose, and every opportunity comes with sacrifices.

Thankfully, technology makes staying connected easier than ever. Video calls, messages, and social media help bridge the gap, allowing you to be present in your loved ones’ lives even from thousands of kilometers away. While it’s not the same as being there physically, finding ways to stay involved can make the distance feel a little smaller.

12. Missing Local Holidays

One of the unexpected challenges of moving to Canada is realizing that the holidays you grew up celebrating are just regular workdays here. Birthdays, national celebrations, and important ceremonies that once brought family and friends together might now pass by unnoticed, making you feel even further from home.

I remember the first time I had to work on September 18th, Chile’s Independence Day. Back home, it’s a huge celebration filled with food, music, and time with loved ones. But in Canada, it was just another day, and no one around me even knew its significance. It felt strange, almost like something was missing.

Over time, though, you start embracing new traditions. Before moving to Canada, I had never experienced Family Day, which is celebrated in February.

At first, missing your local holidays can be difficult, but remind yourself why you made the decision to move. With time, you’ll adjust, create new traditions, and even find ways to celebrate your home country’s holidays in your own way.

13. Missing Food from Your Country

One of the most common challenges of moving to Canada is adjusting to the different food options. No matter how much you love exploring new cuisines, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of the flavours you grew up with.

We used to live in Mississauga, and after a year, we’ve only found two vegan food places. Back in Santiago, I had plenty of choices, and it was easy to find plant-based versions of my favorite dishes. Here, it was more of a challenge.

If you’re moving to Canada, you might face something similar. Some foods and ingredients from your home country may be harder to find, and you might have to visit specialty stores or cook from scratch more often. However, Canada is incredibly diverse, and with time, you’re likely to find at least one place that serves food from your culture. And if you can’t? You might even learn to cook your favourite dishes yourself, which can be a fun way to stay connected to home.

14. Mental Health Struggles

One of the biggest challenges of moving to Canada—and one that isn’t talked about enough—is the emotional toll it can take. Some days will be incredibly hard. You might wake up feeling unmotivated, struggle to get out of bed, or find yourself questioning whether you made the right decision. There will be moments of loneliness, frustration, and even self-doubt.

It’s completely normal to feel this way. Moving to a new country means adjusting to a different culture, climate, and way of life, all while being away from familiar faces and places. These emotions don’t mean you’ve made a mistake—they’re simply part of the transition.

The best advice I can give is to seek support when you need it. Whether that means talking to friends, joining a community group, or even getting professional help through therapy, don’t hesitate to reach out. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as adapting to everything else. With time, the dark days will become fewer, and you’ll start feeling more at home in your new life.

15. Health Issues and Insurance Coverage

One of the most important challenges of moving to Canada is understanding how the healthcare system works and ensuring you have the right insurance coverage when you arrive. While Canada has universal healthcare, newcomers often have a waiting period before they become eligible for provincial health coverage, depending on the province. This is why having travel insurance or private health insurance is essential when you first move.

We learned this lesson the hard way. In September 2021, Aldo was playing soccer when he fell. At first, it didn’t seem serious, but a couple of weeks later, he woke up with intense wrist pain, and we had to go to the hospital. Luckily, we had insurance that covered the visit, so we didn’t have to pay upfront.

However, eight months later, we were still dealing with the insurance company, which hadn’t yet paid the hospital. Aldo was receiving letters saying he owes $1,700 CAD in medical bills. The stress of chasing down the insurance provider while navigating life in a new country was something we hadn’t anticipated.

The best advice I can give? Do your research before choosing an insurance provider. Make sure the company has good reviews from people who have actually had to use their coverage. Reading the fine print and knowing exactly what is covered can save you from unexpected financial stress down the road.

16. Feeling That You Don’t Belong

One of the most complex challenges of moving to Canada is the feeling of not truly belonging anywhere. When I first arrived, I felt like I had lost part of my identity. Back home, I was simply Chilean—my culture, my traditions, and my experiences were all deeply connected to my country. But here, I found that I was often categorized differently.

If someone asked where I was from, I was no longer just Chilean—I was part of the broader Latino community. While I understand the grouping, it felt strange at first because every Latin American country has its own unique culture, traditions, and way of life. Being placed under one umbrella term made me feel like a piece of my personal identity had been blurred.

Even in official forms and surveys, when asked to identify my background, the closest option was simply Latino. It’s a reminder that, in Canada, I’m part of a diverse immigrant community, yet at times, I feel like I’m floating between two worlds—not entirely Chilean anymore, but not fully Canadian yet either.

This in-between feeling, this sense of being in limbo, is something many newcomers experience. It takes time to redefine your identity in a new country, and eventually, you start embracing the fusion of who you were and who you’re becoming. You don’t have to choose one or the other—you can be both.

17. Getting Used to Traffic Rules

One of the more practical challenges of moving to Canada is adapting to new traffic rules, which can be very different from what you’re used to back home. Some things might seem small, but they can be confusing when you’re behind the wheel in a new country.

For example, in Canada, many intersections have four-way stop signs, meaning that every driver must stop and take turns proceeding. This was completely new to us because we don’t have this system in Chile. At first, it felt chaotic—who goes first? How do you know when it’s your turn? But after driving for a while, we realized there’s a natural flow, and drivers here are generally patient.

Aldo had 17 years of driving experience, but he still had to take classes to fully understand Canadian road rules and feel confident behind the wheel. Things like right turns on red lights, pedestrian priority, and winter driving conditions required some adjustments.

If you don’t feel confident driving in Canada, I highly recommend taking a few driving lessons before getting your license. The more comfortable you are with the rules, the safer and more confident you’ll feel on the road.

You can learn more about this process by reading this blog post.

18. Getting Used to New Weather

One of the biggest challenges of moving to Canada is adjusting to the weather, especially if you’re not used to extreme cold. When people think of Canada, they picture snow—and they’re right! Winters can be long and intense, but learning how to embrace the season makes a huge difference.

Before moving here, we had never lived with snow, so we didn’t know what to expect. But instead of avoiding it, we decided to get outside every day, even at -20°C. It wasn’t easy at first, but once we learned how to dress properly, winter became much more enjoyable. If you’re new to Canadian winters, don’t just stay indoors—go for walks, try ice skating, or enjoy the snowy scenery.

The key is wearing the right clothing to stay warm. If you’re unsure what to get, check out this Winter Clothing in Canada Guide for tips on staying comfortable in the cold!

19. Getting Used to Short Days in Winter

One of the biggest challenges of moving to Canada isn’t just the cold—it’s how short the days become in winter. In late December, the sun sets as early as 4:30 PM, which can feel strange if you’re used to longer daylight hours.

I remember leaving home in the dark, working all day, and then coming back in the dark. It felt like the entire day had disappeared before I even had time to enjoy it. Some days, my body tricked me into thinking it was bedtime at 6 PM, and I actually went to sleep that early a few times!

The good news is that this phase doesn’t last forever. After the shortest day of the year, the daylight gradually increases, and by late winter, the longer days make a noticeable difference. If you’re struggling with the darkness, try getting outside during daylight hours, even if it’s just for a short walk—exposure to natural light helps more than you think!

20. Public Transportation

One of the challenges of moving to Canada is adjusting to public transportation, especially if you’re used to having a car or motorcycle in your home country. At first, relying on buses, subways, or trains can feel frustrating, as trips that would take 15 minutes by car can easily turn into 30 minutes to an hour by public transit.

It takes time to learn the system—understanding routes, schedules, and transfer points—but once you do, it becomes much easier. Depending on where you live, public transit can be reliable, but in some areas, wait times and delays can be frustrating, especially in winter. If you’re new to Canada and trying to figure out how public transportation works, check out Understanding the Public Transportation System as a Newcomer to Canada for tips on navigating buses, trains, and transit passes.

To make the most of your commute, I recommend using the time productively. I normally listen to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, which helps make the trip feel shorter and more enjoyable.

Of course, at some point, you might decide to buy a car to make getting around easier. If that’s your goal, check out How to Buy a Car as a Newcomer in Ontario to learn about what to expect when purchasing a vehicle in Canada.

21. Canadian Experience

One of the biggest challenges of moving to Canada is the requirement for Canadian experience when applying for jobs. It often feels like an unwritten rule—many employers prefer candidates who have already worked in Canada, even if you have years of experience in your field. This can be frustrating, especially when you know you’re qualified but still struggle to get hired at the same level as you had in your home country.

At first, you may need to start in a lower-level position just to gain local experience, which can feel discouraging. But don’t worry—the key is to get your foot in the door. Over time, as you build connections, improve your English (if needed), and gain familiarity with the local job market, you’ll have better opportunities to move up.

If you’re navigating the job search process, check out How to Get a Job in Canada as a Newcomer for essential tips on resumes, networking, and interview preparation. You can also explore 11 Strategies to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Job in Canada to learn how to stand out and increase your chances of landing a job that matches your skills and experience.

22. Preparing for Meetings

One of the challenges of moving to Canada and working in a new environment is adapting to professional meetings—especially if English is not your first language. I had been working in the same company for over four years, but always in Spanish. When I started attending meetings in English last year, I quickly realized that I needed to prepare and rehearse what I was going to say in advance.

As an introvert, speaking up in meetings was already difficult, but doing it in a second language made it even harder. I had to take notes while listening, process what others were saying, and then articulate my thoughts clearly—all in real time. It was overwhelming at first, and honestly, I still don’t feel like I’ve fully mastered it. But day by day, I see progress, and that’s what matters.

One thing that has helped me is using power poses for confidence. I once came across a video that said, Fake it till you become it, and that phrase stuck with me. I wrote it on a note near my computer as a reminder to push through my fears and keep improving.

One thing that helped me feel more confident was taking English classes focused on business communication, presentations, and meetings. I used iTalki, a platform where I could take private lessons tailored to my specific needs, and it made a huge difference in how I express myself at work. If you’re looking for a structured way to improve your English for professional settings, check out my iTalki review to see how it works.

23. Unemployment

One of the toughest challenges of moving to Canada is dealing with unemployment, especially if you had a stable job and years of experience in your home country. The transition from being financially independent to struggling to find work can be overwhelming and frustrating.

Suddenly, your savings start shrinking, and you have to think twice before spending on things you once took for granted.

What makes it even more distressing is the effort you put into job hunting—sending out applications, tailoring resumes, attending interviews—only to face rejection or silence. It’s discouraging, but it’s part of the process. Many newcomers go through this stage, and while it may take time, persistence is key. Networking, improving your skills, and gaining Canadian experience will eventually open up opportunities.

Unemployment can be mentally and financially challenging, but it’s temporary. The key is to stay proactive, seek support, and keep applying—the right opportunity will come!

24. Currency

One of the challenges of moving to Canada is adjusting to the currency and cost of living. The first few months can be the hardest because your mind naturally converts every price back to your home currency, and almost everything feels more expensive. A simple grocery run or a meal out can leave you wondering how people afford to live here.

My biggest advice? Try to stop converting prices as soon as possible. It only makes the transition more stressful, and the reality is that the cost of living varies from country to country. Instead of comparing, focus on adjusting to the new financial system and understanding what is considered affordable or expensive in Canada.

Once you start earning in Canadian dollars, your perspective changes. You begin to budget based on local prices rather than conversions, and expenses feel more manageable. It takes time, but eventually, you’ll stop thinking in two currencies and fully adapt to your new financial reality.

25. Savings Are Never Enough

One of the biggest challenges of moving to Canada is realizing how quickly your savings disappear, especially in the first few months. No matter how much you think you’ve prepared, unexpected expenses always seem to come up.

As I mentioned in 40 Things to Do Before Moving to Canada, it’s crucial to save more than you think you’ll need. The costs of settling in can add up fast—first and last month’s rent, furniture, winter clothing (if needed), transportation, health insurance, and even small things like setting up a phone plan or buying kitchen essentials.

It’s easy to underestimate just how much money you’ll go through before you receive your first paycheck in Canada. That’s why I always recommend having a financial cushion to help you navigate those first few months with less stress. Planning ahead and saving beyond your initial budget can make a huge difference in your transition.

You can get more tips to prepare your finances by reading How to Prepare Your Finances for Moving to Canada: What You Need to Know

Conclusion

I hope these challenges give you a realistic idea of what life is like for a newcomer. The challenges of moving to Canada are real, and while they may seem overwhelming at first, they are all part of the adjustment process. Every newcomer goes through struggles—whether it’s navigating paperwork, finding a job, adapting to the weather, or missing home. But with time, patience, and resilience, you will overcome them.

Will it be easy? No.
Will you struggle at times? Yes.
But will it be worth it? Absolutely.

Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to build a new life that reflects the dreams that brought you here in the first place. Embrace the journey, trust the process, and remember that you are not alone—so many have walked this path before and found success and happiness in their new home.