Are you thinking of moving to Canada and have some doubts? You’re not alone. Many Mexicans consider this country as a destination to begin a new chapter—whether for work, study, or simply to pursue a better quality of life.
However, before making the decision, it’s important to understand what life in Canada is really like. Some aspects can’t be overlooked, such as visas and the cost of living. Not to mention the culture and the major change in climate that awaits you.
That’s why we’ve prepared a post with everything you need to know to get ready if you plan to live in Canada as a Mexican.
More and more Mexicans are considering the idea of living in Canada. But like any big change, this decision also comes with certain challenges.
Below, we’ll walk you through the main advantages and disadvantages of living in Canada:
Canada’s healthcare system is universal and provides medical coverage to all citizens and permanent residents.
In some cases, wait times can be long. But this is balanced by the fact that access to consultations, treatments, and hospitalization does not involve direct costs.
Canada boasts a high-quality education system accessible to both locals and foreigners.
In fact, in 2022 it ranked as the country with the highest percentage of adults with tertiary education, reaching 63% of people between 25 and 64 years with completed university or technical degrees.
Canada is an inclusive and multicultural country, full of people from different nationalities, religions, and languages. This is a big plus if you’re Mexican and looking to feel part of a community.
Many Mexicans choose Canada for its clean cities, low levels of violence, and orderly environment. And for good reason—the country offers a stable, safe, and well-organized setting.
Here, daily life unfolds more peacefully, and you don’t face risks on the streets.
In Canada, many academic programs allow you to work while studying, which makes it easier to gain professional experience from day one. This combination is ideal if you want to grow professionally and support your stay in the country.
Although salaries are high, so is the cost of living in Canada. Rent, utilities, transportation, and groceries can represent a significant expense—especially if you’re moving to major cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
While the country does have an open immigration policy, the process to obtain a visa, study permits, work permits, or permanent residency can be long and complex.
If you decide to live in Canada, the first thing you should find out is how much the visa costs based on your goal. Whether you’re moving for work or education, there’s a visa for each reason.
Now, to start a specific immigration process, you have two options:
1. Through the Canadian Consulate or Embassy in Mexico.
2. Online via the official platform of the Canadian government (IRCC).
Regardless of the visa type you choose, these are the basic documents you’ll need to submit:
A passport valid for the duration of your stay.
A completed official application form.
Recent passport-size photos in the official format.
Proof of payment for the corresponding fee.
Specific documentation according to the visa you are applying for (such as acceptance letters, employment contracts, etc.).
As for visa types, these are the main ones:
In addition to the general requirements, you may be asked for:
IMM 1295 form.
Employment contract or offer letter.
Documentation proving your professional qualifications (certificates, diplomas, reference letters).
This visa offers two types of work permits:
1. Employer-specific permit (Closed Work Permit): you may only work for the employer who hired you.
2. Open Work Permit: more flexible, as it allows you to work for any company, although it is granted under specific circumstances.
If you're planning to live in Canada as a Mexican citizen for educational purposes, this is the visa you should apply for.
You can do it online with the general documents and also with:
A letter of acceptance from an accredited Canadian educational institution.
A statement of purpose explaining why you want to study in the country and your personal or professional goals.
Proof that you have sufficient financial resources to live and study in Canada.
In certain cases, a recent medical certificate.
There is also a visa available if you need to apply as a refugee.
If you're facing a risk situation and need international protection, Canada allows you to apply for asylum within its territory.
To do so, you must:
Enter the country legally.
Explain your situation to immigration authorities.
Present evidence to support your application.
Complete the IRCC’s online form.
Approval depends on meeting the criteria established by Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Board.
In most parts of the country, winter is very long and cold, with temperatures reaching -25 °C or even lower.
Adapting to this kind of cold isn’t easy, but over time you’ll get used to it—especially because the infrastructure is designed to handle it. With central heating systems and even underground networks in cities like Montreal, you can get around without suffering the harsh weather.
But it’s not all ice and snow.
In summer, you’ll enjoy hot days that can reach 30 °C or more—perfect for enjoying lakes and outdoor activities.
You should also keep in mind that, due to its size, the climate varies significantly by region. For example, the north has Arctic conditions, while cities like Vancouver have milder and wetter winters due to the Pacific Ocean’s influence.
Of course, adapting doesn't happen overnight—climate is part of the change. You just need to dress appropriately, stay positive, and plan accordingly to deal with the process.
Although Mexicans and Canadians come from very different backgrounds, they share certain values that can help you connect instantly.
Canadians are often known for their hospitality and attentiveness to others. It’s common to be greeted with a smile, have someone hold the door for you, or be addressed with politeness.
Canada is a country filled with people from different nationalities. This cultural mix is visible in everything—from community events to social interactions, and even in the food.
It is common to find restaurants from all over the world and celebrate festivals of different traditions. With Indian, Mexican, Chinese dishes and even typical food from the United States.
Just like Mexicans, Canadians highly value family life and sharing meals together.
The country enjoys an active sports scene, with ice hockey being the most popular during the winter season. However, soccer, basketball, baseball, and skiing are also widely practiced.
Still, certain aspects of Canadian culture may feel surprising, as it’s a very different environment.
Here are a few of them:
Not all Mexicans are late, of course, but time is often approached more flexibly. In Canada, however, punctuality is highly valued. Arriving on time for an appointment or meeting is a sign of respect.
This is something you can also notice in the cultural differences between Mexico and the USA.
When it comes to joining a social circle, Canadians tend to be more reserved at first. Affectionate gestures like hugs or enthusiastic greetings, which you might be used to, usually come later—once trust has been built.
Now that you know what life in Canada is like, here are some tips you might find useful:
One of the biggest concerns about living in Canada as a Mexican is the weather. But you can manage it by investing in thermal coats, waterproof boots, and layered clothing.
This is essential, so don’t skimp on it.
Even though you’ll find a large Spanish-speaking community, it’s important to master one of the official languages: French or English.
English is one of the most widely spoken and will open more job and social opportunities. However, this depends on where you go—for example, in Quebec, French is essential.
Although Canada is a modern and open country, each region has its own personality.
Popular cities like Toronto and Vancouver are multicultural and very dynamic, while smaller cities may be more affordable and quieter.
Adapting takes time.
The first few months can be emotionally challenging, and you may face some obstacles. However, you’ll also receive many rewards if you keep a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
Whether you're moving to Canada temporarily or permanently, set up a monthly budget from the start. Not just for rent, food, or transportation, but also for an emergency fund.
Don’t forget that if you move to Canada and work remotely, DolarApp can be your best ally. With it, you can get paid by international clients in digital dollars without any hassle.
Of course, you should open your USDc account while still in Mexico to better manage your finances from Canada.
Os países têm fronteiras. Suas finanças, não mais.
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