Canada is a country with an array of opportunities for a better future, characterized by a multicultural society product of migrations. It is a country that has reached its maximum development and prosperity thanks to its economic and social policies, some of them being security and respect for human rights. Importantly, the general well-being and quality of life for all its citizens are among its highest priorities.
When it comes to reasons to emigrate, Canada should top your list if your goals involve personal and professional growth and development.
For many years, Canada has been considered one of the best destinations to live, among others, for the following reasons:
1. Canada is a country of immigrants
Multiculturalism is in the DNA of Canadian society. Canadians are generally receptive to immigrants from all over the globe. Most of the world’s ethnic groups are represented in Canada, creating one of the most diverse and multicultural societies in the world.
The government of Canada has reiterated on numerous occasions that immigration is the secret of the success and prosperity of this country, and said efforts to incorporate new immigrants have not ceased despite the global impacts of the COVID virus -19. In fact, the government is planning to welcome more than 1.3 million new permanent residents to the country over the next three years under their Immigration Plan Level 2022-2024, in its efforts to support post-pandemic recovery and drive future growth.
2. Education
Canada recognizes that high education levels play a determinant factor in the development and active participation of its citizens in the economy, without discrimination of any kind.
This has prompted Canada to develop one of the best education systems in the world. From preschool to high school, education is public and free. The Canadian government invests more money in education than any other country and this is reflected in a highly educated and qualified population.
Moreover, Canada is the most educated country in the world, followed by Japan and Israel, with at least 60% of adults with post-secondary education according to a 2022 study by the World Population Review. In the latest 2020 report from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) of the United Nations, it is listed as the second most educated country in the world, just after Korea.
Many of its universities are ranked among the best in the world, including the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia and McGill University, according to the QS World University Rankings 2022.
3. Quality of life
Canada is the second-best country in the world to live according to the 2021 Best Countries Report by US News & World Report.
Likewise, Canada has been considered for many years by the United Nations as one of the countries with the highest human development index (HDI in its acronym in English), assessing not only economic growth alone but also the emphasis on people development, a long and healthy life, being knowledgeable and having a good standard of living.
The protection of individual freedom, gender equality, human rights and multiculturalism are some of the factors that make this country a safe place for peaceful and harmonious coexistence of its citizens, enjoying a long-life expectancy.
4. Equal rights and freedoms
Canada is a free society with equal rights for all who choose to make this country their new home.
Equality, tolerance, diversity and respect are fundamental pillars of the nation. Canada is a leader in the empowerment of vulnerable sectors of the population, such as indigenous groups and the LGBTQ2S+ community, in addition to implementing and executing consistent policies to achieve gender equality and close the existing gender wage gap.
5. Economy
Canada has one of the most prosperous, stable and open economies in the world. Over the past few years, the structure of the Canadian economy has undergone major changes. From an economy based on its abundant raw materials and primary products such as oil, gas, minerals, timber, or agricultural products, Canada has moved to an economy based on knowledge, innovation, sustainability and technology.
As of today, it is one of the most competitive countries in the world and it makes a very attractive place for foreign investment by offering great stability for business creation, low business costs, highly skilled labour, advanced infrastructure and technological sophistication.
Canada is within the top countries with the greatest economic freedom index according to the 2022 report of the Heritage Foundation.
6. Public health
The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) gives Canada a high rating in reference to international standards on health care. The guiding principle on which the health system is built is that citizens will have all the necessary hospital and medical services.
For this reason, Canada is renowned for its universal health care system and social security that ensures equal opportunities for citizens and permanent residents who participate and contribute to the progress and well-being of the country. The system is funded by the government. Canada is also recognized worldwide as a leader in technology and scientific research. The health and well-being of its residents has always been priority number one.
7. Safety and low criminality rates
Canada is the only country in the American continent within the Top 10 of the safest, most peaceful countries in the world, with the highest security and low crime rates, according to the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2021, the world’s leading measure of global peacefulness produced by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP).
Year after year, Canada has lower crime rates and established itself as one of the most peaceful and safest places to live with one of the most effective judicial systems.
This is the result of consistent investment and spending in education, social programs and security, which continue to be a priority for the well-being and quality of life of the entire population.
8. Professional development
“Are there job opportunities if I decide to work in Canada?” This is one of the most common concerns that arise when making an important decision such as immigrating.
The answer is yes! In statistics, Canada has an average unemployment rate of 6% according to recent Statistics Canada. Likewise, according to the OECD, an estimated 73% of individuals between 15 and 64 years have a remunerated job, which represents a higher figure than the OECD average of 68%.
The opportunities for professional growth and development are quite high.
The job market is constantly on the search for professionals and technicians in areas as diverse as engineering, health, technology, business, communications, services, transportation, banking, financial industry, and many others.
9. Social security and social benefits
Canada’s Social Security system is fully funded by the government. Canada offers subsidies, unemployment insurance, retirement pension plans, disability insurance and benefits, maternity and paternity leave for up to 1.5 years and minor child benefits, student loans, scholarships, among others.
10. Environment and sustainability
In addition to having one of the most beautiful natural spaces in the world, the country is committed to protecting biodiversity, wildlife, the oceans and harmonizing its economic and social policies to effectively tackle the impacts of climate change. It is joining efforts to transition to a new more sustainable model, with renewable energy systems and a progressive and permanent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and minimal pollution. This also represents business and employment opportunities in the transition to a greener economy.
According to the latest Environmental Performance Index, Canada has an environmental performance index of 71, ahead of the United States and amongst the Top 20 in the world.
