Focus on expatriation to Canada

Today, and for around ten years, Canada is one of the five countries in the world most popular with French employees tempted by the expatriation experience [source]. At the start of 2024, nearly 110,000 French people had taken the plunge, thus occupying first place in the ranking of French-speaking immigrants in Canada. The country with the maple leaf has also attracted more than expected, displaying an admission rate of 4.7% in terms of French-speaking immigration compared to 4.4% expected, for the year 2023[sources].

The reasons for this trend are multiple, and the first relates to the economy: Canada's GDP showed growth of 2.1% in the 2nd quarter of 2024. The labor market is dynamic, and the unemployment rate remains at a relatively low level (6.5% in October 2024), after reaching peaks during the Covid19 pandemic era (nearly 10% in 2020). Canada, and the province of Quebec in particular, indeed presents various advantages but also some challenges for French people wishing to emigrate there:

Advantages of expatriation to Canada

High quality of life: Canada is recognized for its efficient public services, accessible health system and numerous professional opportunities in varied sectors such as technology, engineering and health.

Economic stability and security: with a stable economy and a secure environment, Canada offers a favorable framework to personal and professional success.

Potential challenges

Cultural integration: although Canada is multicultural, adapting to a new culture can take some getting used to.

Administrative procedures: immigration to Canada involves complex procedures, often perceived as an obstacle by candidates. However, specific provincial programs, such as the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), make it easier to obtain permanent resident status. The Montreal real estate market, very dynamic and competitive, requires specific planning and assistance.

Therefore, an expatriation to this country must be prepared and anticipated as best as possible (6 months to a year in advance).

Home Conseil Relocation, and its partners based in Canada, are able to offer both personalized support, linked to settling in Canada (immigration, orientation, finding accommodation, school registration, etc.), and management of departure from France (leaving accommodation, termination of utility contracts, moving, taxation, etc.).