Moving from US to Canada maybe Ottawa...Any suggestions?

Question

I'm planning on moving out of the US (not for political reasons) just to experience something new...I wanted to try London, England but can't really build the courage. Besides, I love the look and feel of what Canada has to offer.

So my questions are: Should I make the move? How is the money transition and how much should I save before shipping out? And finally I have chosen to move to Ottawa (No Clue) is this a good idea?

Thanks to anyone in advance who answers this...=)

Answer 1

Sure you should make the move! I firmly believe that the more experiences we have in our lives, the richer we are as a human being. Whether you decide you like it or not, is besides the point. It's all about doing what you want to do when you are able to. Never put things off for "tomorrow" if you can help it ... "tomorrow" may never come.

In order to move from the U.S. to Canada, unless you already have status in Canada, you will have to apply for and be granted permanent resident status or a work visa. The process will take 1-3+ years and cost around $1,200 for application fees and associated costs.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/

Besides the costs associated with immigration, it is always a good idea when making a move, especially one where you don't have relatives or a job lined up, to have 6-12 months living expenses saved up. Anything you don't use in the move and months prior to finding a job, will be a nice nest egg for contingencies or a down payment on a home or condo.

As far as where to move to, if Ottawa appeals to you, then go for it. You don't have to know WHY it appeals to you, just that it does! Of course, do lots of research on the area, and perhaps visit it a few times prior to moving there, so you are knowledgeable about what to expect.

Answer 2

Ottawa is a great city.

Its not that large (the whole larger Ottawa Cartlon area is only around a million), but because its the capital it has everything you would want. Including an NHL team since Corel helped out.

Its a great place for the outdoor life - 10 minutes from downtown to country parks and lakes. And for outdoor pursuits - hiking, cycling, canoeing in summer, skating, skiing in winter.

But if you are not used to it winter is very cold and long. Though it is very bright.

An advantage to Ottawa is that you are on the border with Quebec, and can go to French speaking Hull just by crossing the river. You are also close to Montreal.

Answer 3

Hi Sean, First, once in Toronto I would suggest booking an appointment with North American Tax Services in Toronto. They specialize in individuals with cross border tax issues. The principal is a Canadian CGA as well as a CPA. Now, to answer some of your questions. Canada taxes on residency not citizenship. The US taxes on citizenship not residency. So, you and your wife will have to file US tax returns. However, for non-residents there is an annual exemption. I can't recall exactly what it is, but $90,000US rings a bell. However, as you will still be working in the US I do not believe that this applies to you, just your wife. As you will both be living in Canada you will be residents of the country and will have to file taxes here. Your wife will essentially just have to file a normal return here. You will need to report your US income as well as income taxes paid for which you receive a Foreign Tax Credit. The goal of the tax treaty is that you will pay no more tax then you would if you were taxed only in the higher taxed jurisdiction. It is a complicated situation, and I cannot recommend NA Tax Services enough to help you through it. Best of luck!

Answer 4

Ottawa is beautiful! Wonderful people!! Montreal is only a two hour drive (hot men live in Montreal, and there's an awesome nightlife) I have one suggestion...learn french. It's not neccessary because most people are fully bilingual but you'll be able to communicate better with others if you learn french, you'll also have more employment opportunities. Quebec is across the river and often you'll meet people whose first language is french, it's just nice to be able to speak to them in their native tongue, they'll appreciate it especially if they're having a tough time with english...they'd do the same for you. Also, a lot of younger people speak both languages interchangably, often having english and french words in the same sentance. Also, hockey is huge! Invest in a toque...you'll need one. I believe that you'll get $1.14 or 1.13 Canadian for every American dollar. Good luck in Ottawa...I have no doubt that you'll love it.

Answer 5

If you want to be close to the US border, live in a totally multi-cultural society and live a laid back lifestyle, you wont beat vancouver on the west coast. Sure, Ottawa is clean and all that, but full of polititions and government offices and the whole government mentality. Vancouverites lifestyle is much closer to the lifestyle of Californians than the rest of Canada....money is no big deal...we have most everything here that yuo have in the US but we dont make distinctions as to race and colour...we never keep stats based on colour like we hear the US does...Vancouver has the mildest weater in Canada and no harsh winters like Ottawa can....sorry Ottawa....we love you too....just telling this person like it is....I wished we had a nice frozen canal to go skating on..that would be great also!!!

Answer 6

If you have that freedom to move, good for you. Ottawa is a really clean city. People are typically friendly, too. Remember to pack your winter gear, because winters get mighty cold. Also pack ice skates for the canal.

Answer 7

Ottawa is probably one of the nicest places to live if you want to live in the city or near one .The only thing i don't like about it are the politicians.Oh well! They're crooked everywhere! :)

Answer 8

no...canada is a dirty crime infested landfill

www.notcanada.com