The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Digital Nomad in Canada

In June 2023, Canada declared that digital nomads can work through the same process they would if they were tourists. Officials at the embassy are putting in their best efforts to attract more digital nomads to Canada, even though some digital nomads may decide to seek opportunities with Canadian employers.

Becoming a Canadian digital nomad is a great decision. This article will offer clarity on how to go about it, including the costs of living, how to make money, where to live, visa options, and more. Hop in; let’s embark on this journey together.

How to Become a Digital Nomad in Canada

Becoming a digital nomad in Canada involves several requirements. First, you need to define your skills and services. Knowing what skills you can offer remotely, from writing to software development, graphic designing, etc. will enable you to hit the ground running.

Next, you must secure reliable internet because your work depends on it. Fortunately, Canada has good internet infrastructure, except if you stay in its rural locations.

Another important thing to do to become a Canadian digital nomad is research visa requirements. The most common visa options to work remotely in Canada are the Working Holiday Visa, International Experience Canada (IEC), or a Temporary Resident Visa.

As a vast country, Canada has many destinations to give you a comfortable life. Hence, cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are popular for digital nomads due to their amenities and vibrant communities.

You will need accommodation, too. Look for short-term rentals or co-living spaces that cater to digital nomads. Websites like Airbnb, Nomad List, or local Facebook groups can help find suitable accommodation.

Once you have your accommodation, set up your workspace. Ensure you have all the necessary equipment like a laptop, headphones, and any specific tools for your work. Enjoy the nomadic lifestyle and don’t forget that managing your finances properly is nonnegotiable.

Cost of Living as a Digital Nomad in Canada

The cost of living here is relatively affordable. On average, expect to spend between $2,000 to $4,000 per month for a comfortable lifestyle. This includes rent, groceries, transportation, dining out, entertainment, and other expenses.

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can range from $1,200 to $2,500 per month. But outside major cities, you may find more affordable options starting from $800 per month.

Here is a breakdown of your monthly expenses in Canada:

• Rent (one-bedroom apartment): $1,200 – $2,500
• Groceries: $300 – $500
• Transportation (public transit, gas, or car rental): $100 – $300
• Dining out: $200 – $500
• Entertainment and activities: $100 – $300
• Health insurance and other miscellaneous expenses: $100 – $200

Internet Speed and Cost

Another important thing you need is internet speed. The country offers reliable and high-speed internet connectivity, with average download speeds ranging from 50 Mbps to 300 Mbps or higher, depending on the service provider and location. The cost of internet varies but is generally affordable, with monthly plans starting from $50 to $100 for a high-speed connection suitable for digital nomads.

Public Wi-Fi and Co-Working Spaces

You will find public Wi-Fi in cafes, libraries, airports, and public spaces in the country. Additionally, major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have a thriving co-working culture.

Numerous co-working spaces in these major cities supply high-speed internet, shared workspaces, meeting rooms, networking events, and amenities for remote workers. Co-working memberships typically range from $150 to $400 per month, depending on the location and facilities.

How to Find a Place for Rent

You can find rental listings on Craigslist, Kijiji, Realtor.ca, and local real estate agencies. Consider location, amenities, safety, proximity to public transportation or co-working spaces, and rental terms. Arrange virtual tours or visit potential properties before signing a lease agreement. This will help to avoid paying for a house you don’t need.

Transportation

Canada has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including public transit systems, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft, rental cars, biking options, and intercity trains and buses. Major cities have efficient public transit networks, while rural areas may require car rentals or private transportation for flexibility and accessibility. So, navigating the country or your local residence won’t pose any issue.

In addition, domestic flights operate between major airports. if you need to cover long distances, you can opt for them because they provide fast and efficient travel. Airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines offer competitive fares and routes nationwide.

Food and Dining

Explore Canada’s culinary diversity, from local delicacies to international cuisine and fusion dishes. Grocery shopping is affordable, with options from budget-friendly supermarkets like Walmart and No Frills to organic markets and specialty stores. Whether you want them fresh or processed, there is always somewhere to get food.

Also, if you plan to dine out, you will have a range of choices, with meal prices from $10 to $30 per person, depending on the restaurant and location.

What to Bring When Coming as a Canadian Digital Nomad

When moving to Canada as a digital nomad, consider bringing the following to make work life easier:

1. Laptop and accessories: Ensure you have a reliable laptop, charger, and accessories for remote work.
2. Travel essentials: Pack appropriate clothing for Canada’s climate, travel insurance, personal hygiene products, and any prescription medications.
3. Adapters and converters: Canada uses Type A and B electrical outlets (120 volts).
4. Documents: Carry copies of your passport, visa (if applicable), work permits, health insurance, and emergency contact information.
5. Outdoor gear: If you enjoy outdoor activities, pack appropriate clothing, footwear, and gear for hiking, skiing, or exploring nature.

Outdoor Activities

Various outdoor activities in Canada can help you balance work and life for a more productive living. Here are some options you can select from:

• Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore hiking trails in places like Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Algonquin Provincial Park, and Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
• Skiing and Snowboarding: During the winter months, you can go skiing and snowboarding in popular ski resorts. These include Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Banff Sunshine Village in Alberta, and Mont Tremblant in Quebec.
• Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore the pristine lakes of Ontario’s Algonquin Park, the Bowron Lake Circuit in British Columbia, or the Nahanni River in the Northwest Territories.
• Whale Watching: Along the coasts of British Columbia and Newfoundland, you can go on whale-watching tours. You will see majestic marine life such as orcas, humpback whales, and belugas.
• Camping and RVing: Set up camp in scenic campgrounds across Canada or embark on a road trip with an RV to experience the country’s diverse landscapes, from mountains to forests to coastal regions. Going out with friends and colleagues will also make the experience fun.

Entertainment Options

Another exciting way to balance your work and life is to seek entertainment occasionally. Top options include the following:

1. Cultural Festivals: The country hosts a variety of cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Calgary Stampede (Alberta), Montreal Jazz Festival (Quebec), Toronto International Film Festival (Ontario), and Winterlude (Ottawa).
2. Live Music and Theater: Attend live music concerts, Broadway shows, and theatrical performances in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Quebec City. These cities have vibrant arts and entertainment scenes and are not so far from the rural areas.
3. Sports Events: Catch professional sports games such as hockey (NHL), football (CFL), baseball (MLB), and basketball (NBA) in major cities across Canada.
4. Food and Wine Tours: Explore Canada’s culinary scene with food tours in cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal, known for their diverse cuisines and thriving restaurant scenes. Wine enthusiasts can also visit vineyards in regions like the Okanagan Valley (British Columbia) and Niagara-on-the-Lake (Ontario).
5. Museums and Galleries: Immerse yourself in art, history, and culture by visiting museums such as the Royal Ontario Museum (Toronto), Vancouver Art Gallery (Vancouver), Canadian Museum of History (Ottawa), and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (Montreal).

Embracing a Minimalistic Lifestyle

If you want to live a simplified life, you will need to take away some excesses and focus only on essentials. One way of achieving that is by decluttering your living space, digital appliances, and other stuff. If you have excesses, you can donate or sell them.

When you are traveling, pack light and only essential items. Ensure to put suitable clothing for the seasons and activities. Another way to embrace minimalism is by practicing mindful consumption and being intentional about your purchases. Always minimize waste.

In addition, you need to organize digital files, streamline online activities, and reduce screen time to enhance focus, productivity, and digital well-being. Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails, declutter digital devices and prioritize meaningful connections.

Read also: How to travel and work remotely as a digital nomad

How Digital Nomads in Canada Make Money

Digital nomads in Canada have various avenues for generating income remotely, including the following:

1. Remote Jobs: You can work for Canadian or international companies that offer remote work opportunities in industries like technology, finance, marketing, writing, design, and consulting.
2. Freelancing: You can also provide freelance services in areas such as graphic design, web development, content writing, digital marketing, consulting, virtual assistance, and online tutoring for clients in Canada and globally.
3. E-commerce: Sell products or services online through platforms like Shopify, Etsy, Amazon, eBay, or your website. Explore dropshipping, print-on-demand, affiliate marketing, and digital product sales to reach Canadian and international customers.
4. Consulting and Coaching: This is a great option for those who enjoy teaching. Offer consulting services or coaching sessions in your expertise areas, such as business development, career coaching, wellness coaching, financial planning, or personal branding for clients in Canada and abroad.

Check out these common travel problems and how to deal with them.

Visa Options and Restrictions

As part of the Canadian Tech Talent Strategy, the country allows digital nomads to live and work for up to six months in tech roles. It is called the Canadian Digital Nomad Visa.

If you are employed by Canadian companies or sponsored by employers, you may apply for work permits such as the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or International Mobility Program (IMP) depending on the job offer and eligibility criteria. However, as a digital nomad in Canada, you do not need a work permit. This was a directive by the government and took effect in June 2023. You can work up to six months using a tourist visa.

Five Top Places in Canada for Digital Nomads

As someone moving to Canada to work for a short time, you need to understand the best place to live to enable you to access work amenities and other comforts enjoyed by remote workers. Some of the top places digital nomads in Canada can live include the following:

1. Toronto, Ontario

Toronto is a bustling city with a diverse culture and a thriving business scene. You can find a variety of coworking spaces to suit your needs. WeWork is a global coworking giant with several locations across Toronto, offering modern amenities, networking events, and a professional environment. The Workaround is a unique coworking space in the east end of Toronto, catering specifically to parents and caregivers. BrightLane is another popular choice in downtown Toronto, known for its flexible membership options and vibrant community of freelancers and remote workers.

2. Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver combines stunning natural beauty with a growing tech scene. The city offers various coworking spaces, including The Profile, in downtown Vancouver and Gastown. The Hive is renowned for its creative atmosphere and has spaces not only in Vancouver but also in other Canadian cities, attracting freelancers and startups. BrainStation, located in Vancouver, focuses on tech and innovation, offering coworking space along with workshops, events, and industry connections.

3. Montreal, Quebec

Montreal is a vibrant city with a rich arts and culture scene. Notman House is a historic building turned coworking space in Montreal’s Mile End, known for its tech and startup community. Le Wagon, a coding bootcamp, also offers coworking space in Montreal, attracting tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs looking for a collaborative environment. La Gare, located near Old Montreal, provides a modern coworking space with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and networking.

4. Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is a hub for technology and innovation. Assembly Co-working Space in downtown Calgary emphasizes sustainability and community building, providing a conducive environment for remote work. Work Nicer, with multiple locations in Calgary, stands out for its supportive community and flexible memberships tailored to digital nomads. Platform Calgary is another notable coworking space, offering access to mentors, resources, and a vibrant startup ecosystem.

5. Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria located on Vancouver Island, offers a laid-back lifestyle combined with a tech-friendly environment. Fort Tectoria is a tech hub in downtown Victoria, providing coworking space, events, and support for startups and remote workers. The Dock Victoria, near the waterfront, offers a scenic coworking environment focusing on creativity and collaboration. Accelerate Tectoria, another coworking space in Victoria, provides access to mentors, workshops, and networking opportunities for remote workers and entrepreneurs.

In conclusion, Canada is a hotspot for budding digital nomads who want to explore life outside of their country or immediate environment. if you plan to become a digital nomad in Canada, you have a fertile ground to sow your seed.

I hope you enjoyed reading from me. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment and share it with others on your timeline.