Moving from Calgary to London represents a significant life change that requires careful planning and preparation.
Quick Pre-Move Checklist
- Valid passport and appropriate UK visa
- International health insurance coverage
- Job offer or proof of funds
- Housing arrangements in London
- Bank accounts and credit cards that work internationally
Immigration Requirements
Contact the UK Embassy in Canada at +1 613-237-1530 or visit UK Embassy Ottawa for current visa requirements.
Healthcare Considerations
- Register for NHS upon arrival
- Keep Canadian health coverage active during transition
- Bring medical records and prescription history
Housing in London
Popular areas for Canadian expats include Richmond, Greenwich, and Canary Wharf.
| Area | Average Monthly Rent (1 bed) | Commute to Central London |
|---|---|---|
| Richmond | £1,500-1,800 | 30 minutes |
| Greenwich | £1,300-1,600 | 20 minutes |
| Canary Wharf | £1,700-2,000 | 15 minutes |
Moving Your Belongings
Recommended international moving companies serving Calgary-London route:
- AMJ Campbell International: 1-800-465-5112
- Crown Relocations: 1-877-862-7696
- Allied International: 1-800-268-6683
Banking and Finance
Set up accounts with banks that have presence in both countries, such as HSBC or RBC.
Cost Comparison
| Expense | Calgary (CAD) | London (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Transport Pass | $109 | £158 |
| Coffee | $4.50 | £3.50 |
| Basic Utilities | $225 | £175 |
Important Timeline Tasks
- 3-6 months before: Apply for visa, research housing
- 2-3 months before: Book international movers, arrange temporary accommodation
- 1 month before: Set up UK bank account, arrange utilities
- 1 week before: Forward mail, cancel Canadian services
Contact the Canadian High Commission in London (+44 20 7004 6000) for support after arrival.
Local Resources
- Canadians in London Facebook Group
- Transport for London: tfl.gov.uk
- NHS Registration: nhs.uk
Additional Considerations
Weather Adjustment
London has milder winters but more rain than Calgary. Pack accordingly with:
- Waterproof jackets and boots
- Layered clothing for variable temperatures
- Umbrella for year-round use
Cultural Integration
Prepare for British cultural differences:
- Different terminology for common items
- Right-side driving vs left-side
- British workplace etiquette
- Different electrical outlets (bring adapters)
Education Transfers
If moving with children, consider:
- School term differences
- Educational equivalency assessments
- Registration deadlines for local schools
Conclusion
Moving from Calgary to London requires thorough planning across multiple areas including immigration, housing, healthcare, and practical arrangements. Success depends on:
- Starting preparations 6 months in advance
- Maintaining organized documentation
- Building a support network in London
- Understanding and preparing for cost of living differences
Remember to regularly check government websites for updated requirements and maintain copies of all important documents both digitally and physically.
FAQs
- What documents do I need to move from Calgary to London, UK?
You need a valid passport, appropriate visa or work permit, proof of funds, job offer letter (if applicable), and proof of accommodation. For permanent moves, you’ll also need biometric residence permit documentation. - How much does it typically cost to move from Calgary to London?
The average cost ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 CAD, including shipping containers ($3,000-8,000), flights ($800-1,500), visa fees ($400-1,500), and initial accommodation costs. Costs vary based on volume of belongings and shipping method. - What is the process for transferring my Canadian driving license to a UK one?
You can drive with your Canadian license for 12 months. After this, you must exchange it for a UK license through DVLA. Canadians can exchange their license without retaking driving tests. - How do I set up healthcare coverage when moving to London?
Register with the National Health Service (NHS) by visiting a local GP surgery once you have proof of address. You’ll pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa application for access to NHS services. - What’s the best time of year to move from Calgary to London?
Spring (March to May) or Autumn (September to October) are ideal, avoiding peak summer rental season and winter weather disruptions. Housing availability is typically better during these periods. - How do I ship my belongings from Calgary to London?
Options include sea freight (6-8 weeks), air freight (1-2 weeks), or international moving companies. Sea freight is most economical for large shipments, while air freight suits essential items needed quickly. - What are the banking requirements for moving to London?
You’ll need proof of UK address, passport, visa, and employment details to open a UK bank account. Consider banks with international presence like HSBC or Barclays for easier transition. Online banks like Monzo or Revolut offer quicker setup options. - How do I handle tax obligations between Canada and the UK?
Notify CRA of your departure from Canada by filing a departure tax return. Register for UK tax through HMRC upon arrival. Canada and UK have a tax treaty to prevent double taxation. - What neighborhoods in London are comparable to Calgary communities?
Richmond and Greenwich offer suburban feel similar to Calgary’s suburbs. For urban lifestyle similar to downtown Calgary, consider Canary Wharf or areas like Islington. East London offers more affordable options similar to Calgary’s northeast. - How do I transfer or close Canadian utility accounts and set up UK ones?
Notify Calgary utility providers at least 30 days before departure. For UK utilities, contact providers like British Gas, Thames Water, and local council for council tax once you have a UK address.