Moving from Canada to London requires careful planning, documentation, and understanding of UK immigration requirements.
Immigration Requirements
Canadian citizens need a valid visa or residence permit to live in London.
- Skilled Worker Visa (if you have a job offer)
- Student Visa (for studies)
- Family Visa (if joining family members)
- Start-up or Innovator Visa (for entrepreneurs)
Important Documents
- Valid Canadian passport
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Educational credentials
- Work references
- Police clearance certificate
Healthcare
Register with the National Health Service (NHS) once you have your visa and permanent address.
Housing Options
Popular areas for Canadian expats include Richmond, Greenwich, and Islington.
| Area | Average Monthly Rent (1-bed) |
|---|---|
| Central London | £1,800+ |
| Zone 2-3 | £1,200-1,600 |
| Outer London | £900-1,200 |
Banking
- Major banks: HSBC, Barclays, NatWest
- Online options: Monzo, Revolut, Starling
Transportation
Get an Oyster card or contactless bank card for public transport.
Useful Transport Links
Cost Comparison
| Item | London | Toronto |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Transport Pass | £150 | CAD 156 |
| Coffee | £3.50 | CAD 4.50 |
Essential Steps Before Moving
- Apply for visa
- Research housing areas
- Set up tax matters with CRA
- Arrange international health insurance
- Plan pet relocation (if applicable)
Shipping and Storage
Reliable shipping companies include Crown Relocations and Allied Pickfords.
Local Support
- Canadian High Commission in London: +44 (0) 207 004 6000
- Canadian Expat Association
- London Canadian Community groups on Facebook
Emergency Contact: Call 999 for police, fire, or ambulance services in the UK.
Employment
Job hunting should begin before arrival. Major job sites include:
- Indeed UK
- Reed
- LinkedIn UK
- Guardian Jobs
Education System
If moving with children, understand the UK school system:
- Primary: Ages 4-11
- Secondary: Ages 11-16
- Sixth Form: Ages 16-18
Cultural Adjustment
Key Differences
- British workplace etiquette
- Different holiday celebrations
- Pub culture and social norms
- British humor and communication style
Tax Considerations
Register with HMRC upon arrival. Key points:
- Apply for National Insurance number
- Understand UK tax year (April 6 – April 5)
- Consider double taxation agreement
Weather Preparation
London’s climate differs from Canadian weather:
- Milder winters
- Regular light rain
- Less extreme temperatures
- Fewer sunny days
Conclusion
Moving to London offers exciting opportunities but requires thorough preparation. Success depends on:
- Securing proper documentation
- Financial planning
- Understanding cultural differences
- Building a support network
Contact local Canadian expat groups and utilize online resources for additional support during your transition.
FAQs
- What are the visa requirements for Canadians moving to London?
Canadians need a valid visa to live in London. Common options include the Skilled Worker visa, Student visa, or Global Talent visa. You’ll need to apply through the UK government website and meet specific eligibility criteria. - How much money should I save before moving to London from Canada?
It’s recommended to have at least £3,000-£4,000 per person for initial expenses, plus three months’ rent (typically £2,000-£3,000 per month), deposit, and emergency funds. London’s cost of living is significantly higher than most Canadian cities. - Do I need to register with the NHS when moving to London?
Yes, once you have your visa and permanent address, you should register with a local GP practice to access NHS services. You’ll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa application. - How do I transfer my Canadian driving license to a UK one?
Canadians can drive on their Canadian license for 12 months after arrival. After this period, you must exchange it for a UK license through the DVLA. No additional driving test is required for Canadian license holders. - What are the best areas in London for Canadian expats?
Popular areas include Richmond, Canary Wharf, Islington, and Hampstead. These areas offer good transport links, amenities, and often have established expat communities. - How do I set up a UK bank account as a Canadian?
You’ll need proof of address and identification. Major banks like HSBC, Barclays, and Lloyds offer international accounts. Digital banks like Monzo or Revolut can be easier to set up initially. - What tax implications should I consider when moving from Canada to London?
You’ll need to notify the CRA of your non-resident status, file a final Canadian tax return, and register for UK taxes. You may be subject to both Canadian and UK taxes in your first year of residency. - How do I ship my belongings from Canada to London?
You can use international moving companies or shipping containers. Sea freight takes 6-8 weeks but is more economical, while air freight is faster but more expensive. Customs documentation is required. - Can I maintain my Canadian pension and investments when moving to London?
You can keep your Canadian pension, but should consult a financial advisor about RRSP and TFSA implications. The UK and Canada have a social security agreement to protect pension rights. - What’s the process for finding rental accommodation in London?
Work with estate agents, use property websites like Rightmove or Zoopla, and prepare documentation including employment contract, bank statements, and references. You’ll typically need 6-12 months’ rent upfront as an international tenant.