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 Moving to Calgary -
Immigrating to Canada
Moving from Ireland to Canada we learned the hard way, most of the pitfalls
associated with relocating. That was ten years ago, today I work
as a realtor and relocation specialist in Calgary. If I can be of assistance making
sure you don't make the same mistakes, please
give me a
call. or fill out the form below and I will get back
to you.
Immigrating to Canada
Without doubt the biggest move
anyone can make is moving from one country to another. I know
because I have done it myself and no matter how prepared you are the
move can be traumatic. That said, it is also going to be one of the
biggest adventures in your life.
CANADA
As anyone already in the process of applying for Canadian
citizenship will tell you the process is a long one. But when the
day finally arrives, when you get you accepted it's a little like
getting to the top of a roller coaster ride, suddenly things are
going to start moving very quickly. In fact, you will only have a
relatively short time to make the move or lose your chance at
starting your new life altogether. With this in mind, I would
like to go over some of the things you need to consider before you
arrive.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!
Canada is a big place, but for most new residents the major areas
for relocation come down to just three provinces, (well four if you
can speak French), these being:
Alberta
British Columbia
Ontario
And Québec (The French speaking one)
 OUR
CHOICE
We looked at all three of the main provinces before we made our
choice finally settling in Calgary, Alberta. Calgary is the power
center of Alberta and home to some of he richest oil and gas
reserves in the world. Two main cities account for the majority of
Alberta's population, them being Calgary and Edmonton to the north of
Calgary. Although Edmonton is the provincial Capital, many people feel
Calgary has the edge when it comes to quality of living. Also,
because of it's geographical location Calgary has considerably less
harsh winters.
If you would like to talk about
your move to Canada and go over some of the choices you have and
things you should be considering such as credit reports, insurance
records, school systems and work opportunities etc., in the Calgary
area please feel free to drop me a line or even call me on (403)
383-8025.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
Anyway regardless as to where you finally decide to call home here
are just a few things to consider before you make the big move.
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Money
Talk to your bank and arrange how you are going to transfer your
funds. Also, you should consider the cost of transferring cash
including exchange rates etc. For example, you may find it makes
more sense to open a trading account than take a tourist
exchange rate.
-
Health
Care
Although Canada has a good health care system it is nowhere near
as good as most European countries. Dental charges and
prescription drugs are expensive and not covered by the Canadian
Health systems. something to consider before you move. You
should also get copies of all your health records. When you
arrive ask people for recommendations for good dentists, doctors
etc.
-
School
Records
You should get hard copies of school and college records. Again
ask people for recommendations when it comes to choosing a good
school for your children.
-
Insurance
This is a big one. unless you want to get hit big time when it
comes to insuring your car you must bring proof of your driving
record. Even then unless you find a good broker you could end up
paying thousands a year for basic motor vehicle insurance until
you have build up credibility with you new Canadian insurance
company. Canadians are not the best drivers in the world also in
some provinces children as young as 15 are allowed to get behind
the wheel of a car, as such insurance can be expensive. You have
been warned!
-
TAX
Last but not least, talk to your local tax office. It is quite
possible that you are eligible to reclaim some of the government
benefit plans you have been paying into over the years
Like I said, when it comes to the
moving thing I have been there and have the scars to prove it!
Diane Kelly
Calgary Relocation Specialist
View my realtor testimonials.
Calgary Real Estate
Copyright © TALKCalgary
2000 - 2010
Photography, &
copy
writing by Steve Kelly or as credited.
Calgary Real Estate consultant Diane Kelly, Discover Real Estate Ltd,
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