26 Benefits of Moving to Canada: Why Immigrants Love It Here

What are the benefits of moving to Canada? When you visit or move to a new country, it’s natural to compare it to the place you came from. You notice what’s different, what’s better, and what challenges come with the change.

For me, moving from Chile to Canada brought many surprises—some expected and others completely unexpected. Canada is a country full of opportunities, diversity, and a great quality of life.

In this post, I’ll share 26 good things or benefits of moving to Canada that stand out in my personal experience and might even inspire you to explore the possibility of moving here.

1. A Multicultural Country

One of the most beautiful benefits of moving to Canada is its diversity. This country is home to people from all over the world, each bringing their own culture, traditions, and languages. I had a coworker from India, and our conversations about her culture always fascinate me.

Canada’s openness to immigration creates a society where different backgrounds blend together while still allowing individuals to preserve their cultural identity. You’ll never feel alone here because there’s always someone who has gone through a similar experience as a newcomer.

2. Immigration Programs That Welcome You

Canada actively encourages immigration. Every year, the government sets ambitious targets for how many newcomers they plan to welcome. For example, in 2022, Canada aimed to receive 431,645 immigrants.

The good news? There are so many immigration pathways to explore.

I personally arrived in Canada through the Working Holiday Visa, and then I applied for permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class. Many people also come as international students, which in the past allowed their partners to work full-time while they study.

To explore your options, visit the official immigration website: Canada.ca. It’s the only reliable source for immigration programs and updates.

3. English and French: Two Official Languages

A unique benefit of moving to Canada is the opportunity to become bilingual. Canada has two official languages: English and French.

If you plan to apply for permanent residence, knowing French can give you additional points—especially if you move to a province where it’s commonly spoken, like Quebec, New Brunswick, or parts of Ontario.

For families, this is an incredible advantage. If your children grow up in Canada, they will naturally learn both languages, increasing their job opportunities in the future.

4. A Higher Minimum Wage

One of the biggest benefits of moving to Canada is the way wages are structured. Here, you can either earn an annual salary or receive your payment per hour, which provides flexibility depending on the type of job you have.

Coming from Chile, where the minimum wage is set as a fixed monthly amount, this was an interesting adjustment. 

Each province and territory in Canada has its own minimum wage, and these rates are updated regularly. If you’re curious about the current rates in each region, you can check the latest updates on the Retail Council of Canada’s website.

The ability to earn a fair wage, combined with worker protections and employment standards, makes Canada an attractive place for newcomers looking for better economic opportunities.

5. Skilled Trades Are Respected and Well-Paid

In some countries, people see university degrees as the only way to success, but in Canada, trades are just as valuable.

Professions like plumbing, electrical work, construction, and mechanics are highly respected and well-paid. In fact, experienced tradespeople often earn the same (or even more) than office workers with degrees.

If you have a trade skill or are considering learning one, Canada offers amazing job opportunities in this sector.

6. Universal Healthcare: Free Medical Services

One of the most important benefits of moving to Canada is its public healthcare system. While it’s not completely free (since it’s funded through taxes), it provides essential medical care at no direct cost when you need it.

Simply present your health card, and your doctor’s visits, hospital stays, and most medical services will be covered. However, dental and vision care are not included, so many people get private insurance through their employer.

One challenge that many newcomers face is finding a family doctor, as there can be long wait times to get one. If you’re moving to Ontario and need help navigating this process, check out Tips on How to Find a Family Doctor in Ontario as a Newcomer for practical advice on securing a primary healthcare provider.

If you’re coming to Ontario, you can also check out this guide to getting your health card with a work permit to ensure you’re covered as soon as possible.

7. Canada Has Four Beautiful Seasons

Unlike some places where the climate stays relatively the same all year, Canada has four distinct seasons, and each one is breathtaking.

• Winter: Long and snowy, but if you dress properly, it’s magical.
• Spring: Flowers bloom, and the weather starts warming up.
• Summer: Hot and perfect for enjoying lakes, road trips, and BBQs.
• Fall: The trees turn incredible shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Yes, winter is long, but the changing seasons make Canada a visually stunning country year-round.

8. Sports for Every Season

In Chile, I never really saw people playing ice hockey, baseball, or skiing, but in Canada, each season comes with its own set of sports.

• Winter: Ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing.
• Summer: Baseball, soccer, hiking, cycling.

If you love sports, Canada is an amazing place to try new activities you might have never experienced before.

9. Efficient Heating Systems for Cold Weather

Winter might sound intimidating, but Canada is built for it. Even though temperatures can drop well below freezing, everything is designed to keep you warm and safe. Homes, offices, buses, and public spaces all have efficient heating systems, so you rarely feel the extreme cold indoors.

Coming from Chile, I was surprised to find that I’ve felt colder there than in Canada. In Santiago, many homes aren’t equipped with central heating, so the cold creeps in during winter. But here, as soon as you step inside a building, you’re met with cozy warmth. Even public buses and subway stations are heated, making commuting in winter much more bearable.

Another great thing about winters in Canada is how well cities manage the snow. After heavy snowfall, city crews work quickly with special equipment to clear roads and sidewalks, allowing people to get back to their daily routines within a few hours. This was something completely new for me because, in Chile, even heavy rain could cause serious flooding, making it difficult to move around.

So if you’re worried about facing your first Canadian winter, don’t be! With proper clothing and a well-prepared environment, winter is not as bad as it seems.

10. Stunning Green Spaces and Parks

One of my favorite benefits of moving to Canada is how many parks and green spaces there are.

In Mississauga, where I used to live, I loved discovering new parks every week. If you love nature, Canada is a paradise. Check out my list of 14 parks to visit in Mississauga.

11. Clean Air

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is the noticeably cleaner air quality, especially if you’re coming from a city with heavy pollution. In Mississauga, I was surprised to see how clear the sky was compared to Santiago, where smog was a daily reality.

In Santiago, I remember standing at a high point in the city and seeing a thick, dark cloud of pollution covering the skyline. It was something I had grown used to, but after moving to Canada, I realized how different it feels to breathe fresh, clean air every day.

Canada has an abundance of green spaces, forests, and natural reserves, which help maintain better air quality.

12. Beautiful Landscapes

One of the most breathtaking benefits of moving to Canada is the opportunity to experience its stunning landscapes. This country is huge, and no matter where you go, there’s always something beautiful to see.

So far, we’ve only visited a few cities, but each one has left us amazed. Even within urban areas, there are plenty of parks, trails, and waterfront views that make everyday life feel more connected to nature.

Whether you love mountains, forests, beaches, or prairies, Canada has it all. Every province has something unique to offer, and we still have so many places left to explore!

13. Oceans and Lakes

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is the incredible access to both oceans and lakes, offering endless opportunities for outdoor activities. Unlike Chile, which is bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Canada has access to three oceans—the Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic—plus thousands of lakes spread across the country.

You can enjoy activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, or simply relaxing by the water, depending on the region and the season.

No matter your preference—offers a diverse range of waterfront destinations, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

14. Good Infrastructure

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is the well-planned infrastructure that makes cities more accessible, organized, and enjoyable for residents.

We’ve enjoyed many community activities organized by the city, and it’s amazing to see how much effort is put into maintaining public spaces. The parks are well-equipped for children, with modern playgrounds, picnic areas, and even splash pads in the summer.

Another great aspect is the extensive network of bike paths and walking trails, which are not only well-maintained but also connect different neighborhoods, making it easy to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.

15. Public Transportation

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is having access to reliable and well-connected public transportation, especially if you’re a newcomer without a car. In many cities, buses and trains run on schedule, making it easier to plan your commute. Nothing is better than waiting for the bus in the middle of winter and having it arrive exactly when it says it will—a small but significant convenience when dealing with the cold.

For more than a year in Canada, we relied entirely on public transportation, using buses and trains to get around. While it took some time to understand the system, it was an efficient and affordable way to navigate the city.

If you’re new to Canada and wondering how to use public transit, check out Understanding the Public Transportation System as a Newcomer to Canada for tips on getting started.

Eventually, we decided to buy a car, which gave us more flexibility, especially for road trips and exploring places that aren’t easily accessible by transit.

If you’re thinking about purchasing a vehicle, I shared our experience in How to Buy a Car as a Newcomer in Ontario, Canada to help guide you through the process.

16. Importance of Family Time and Vacation

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is how much importance is placed on work-life balance. Canadians truly value their time off, and taking vacations is not just encouraged—it’s expected.

Unlike in some countries where taking time off might feel like a burden on the company, here it is seen as a necessary part of maintaining well-being and productivity.

In Chile, I rarely took vacations because I didn’t want to impact the company or because there were always problems that made it feel impossible to step away. Looking back, I realize how unhealthy that mindset was. Since moving to Canada, I have learned that prioritizing family time and mental health is essential.

This shift in mindset has been one of the most valuable lessons from my experience in Canada. Knowing that your personal time is respected allows you to enjoy life more, whether that means traveling, spending time with family, or simply unwinding without guilt.

17. 40-Hour Workweek

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is the standard 40-hour workweek, which allows for a much better work-life balance compared to other countries. In Chile, the standard workweek is 45 hours, which often means longer days and less personal time.

Having those extra hours in the week makes a noticeable difference—it gives you more time to spend with family, pursue hobbies, or simply relax.

This shift in work culture was a big adjustment for me, but one that I truly appreciate.

18. Crime Rates

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is the overall sense of safety and security. Canada is considered one of the safest countries in the world, and the difference is noticeable when compared to other places.

According to the Global Peace Index Map, which ranks countries based on safety, Canada consistently ranks among the top 10 most peaceful nations. In a list of 163 countries, Canada is ranked 15th, while Chile is ranked 64th. This ranking reflects not only lower crime rates but also political stability, low levels of violence, and strong law enforcement.

While crime exists everywhere, Canada has a strong reputation for being a safe and peaceful country, making it an ideal place for families, students, and professionals looking for a secure environment to live and work.

19. Use of Piercings and Tattoos

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is the freedom to express yourself without judgment, especially when it comes to appearance. In my home country, having a face piercing, visible tattoos, or brightly colored hair can still be frowned upon in certain workplaces or formal settings. In some cases, people might be expected to remove piercings, cover tattoos, or conform to a specific appearance standard to be considered “professional.”

Here in Canada, that is not even a topic of discussion. People are free to express themselves however they choose, and individuality is widely accepted in workplaces, schools, and public spaces. Employers focus more on skills and qualifications rather than appearance, and it’s common to see professionals, including doctors, teachers, and office workers, with tattoos or piercings.

Personally, I got my nose pierced, and Aldo has long hair and an ear piercing, and we’ve never had any issues. It’s refreshing to live in a place where people don’t judge you based on these things.

20. People Don’t Give Their Opinion About Your Body

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is the respect for personal boundaries, especially when it comes to body image. In Chile, it is common for people—sometimes even strangers or distant relatives—to comment on your appearance. You might hear things like, “You’ve gained weight,” “You look too thin,” or even, “You look tired, are you sick?” These unsolicited remarks can be frustrating and, at times, hurtful.

In Canada, people generally understand that someone’s body is their own business. There is a culture of respect and personal space, and people are more focused on how you feel rather than how you look.

This shift was a relief for me. I no longer have to deal with unnecessary remarks about my weight or appearance. It’s one of the things I truly appreciate about Canadian culture—it allows you to feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin without the pressure of constant judgment.

21. It is Safe to Walk Outside of a Construction Site

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is the overall sense of safety and respect in public spaces, especially for women.

In Chile, walking past a construction site often meant hearing unwanted comments, known as piropos, from workers. Even though some people consider them harmless or part of the culture, they can be uncomfortable and even intimidating.

In Canada, this kind of behavior is not common. You can walk past a construction site or any workplace without anyone shouting comments at you.

This level of respect for personal boundaries makes daily life much more comfortable. It’s one of those small but meaningful cultural differences that truly improves the quality of life.

22. People Apologize

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is experiencing just how polite people are—especially when it comes to apologizing. You may have heard the stereotype that Canadians say “sorry” all the time, and let me tell you, it’s absolutely true.

What’s even funnier is that they apologize even when they are not at fault.

It creates a friendlier atmosphere and makes everyday life just a little bit nicer. And yes, now I’ve caught myself saying “sorry” more than I ever did before.

23. Nobody Touches You in the Subway

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is how much people respect personal space, especially in public transportation. This was a huge difference for me coming from Chile, where crowded buses and subways often mean people standing too close, pushing to get in, or even unwanted physical contact.

Here, people are much more mindful of giving others space. If a subway or bus is too full, many people will simply wait for the next one rather than squeezing in uncomfortably. There’s no shoving or aggressively pushing past others to grab a seat—it’s a much more calm and orderly experience.

Another thing I found surprising was how aware people are of physical contact. If someone accidentally brushes your arm or bumps into you, they will immediately apologize. This level of consideration makes a big difference in everyday commuting, making public transportation feel far more respectful and comfortable.

24. Close to the United States and the Caribbean

One of the benefits of moving to Canada is how easy it is to travel to the United States and the Caribbean.

For those who dream of visiting Disneyland, New York, Miami, or even Las Vegas, flights from Canada are often shorter and more affordable compared to traveling from South America. And let’s not forget about the Caribbean—destinations like Mexico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica are just a few hours away by plane, making it possible to escape the winter and enjoy some sun and warm beaches whenever you need a break.

Many Canadians take advantage of this proximity and plan vacations around long weekends or winter breaks. Some even make quick weekend trips to the U.S. for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting family and friends.

25. Big Country

Canada is huge, and no matter how much you explore, there’s always somewhere new to visit. The landscapes, cities, and cultures change drastically from one province to another, making every trip feel like a completely different experience.

In these 4 years, we’ve traveled a lot within Canada, but most of our time has been spent in just one province—Ontario. We took a week to visit Montreal in Quebec and another to explore Vancouver and Victoria in British Columbia, and even those short trips showed us how diverse this country is.

The best part? We still have so much left to see.

26. Food

One of the things I love most about living in Canada is the incredible variety of food. Since this country is home to people from all over the world, you can find authentic dishes from almost every culture.

Back in Chile, international food options were more limited, and trying certain cuisines often meant expensive restaurants or specialty stores. But here, you can find small, family-owned restaurants serving homemade dishes just like you would eat in their country of origin.

What makes it even better is that many of these restaurants are run by immigrants who bring their food traditions with them, creating a truly diverse culinary scene. Having access to such a wide variety of global cuisine is definitely one of the best benefits of moving to Canada.

 Conclusion

Moving to a new country is a big decision, but the benefits of moving to Canada make it an exciting and rewarding experience.

While settling in a new place takes time, the opportunities and quality of life here make the journey worthwhile. If you’re in the early stages of planning your move, you may find this A Basic Guide on How to Move to Canada helpful.

Of course, no place is perfect, and adjusting to a new country always comes with challenges. But with so many opportunities, a strong sense of safety, and a high standard of living, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to call Canada home.

If you want to learn more about the realities of starting fresh in a new country, check out 25 Challenges of Moving to Canada to help prepare for your journey.