Benefits of being a digital nomad in Canada
Canada, the world's second-largest country by land area, is one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads from all around the world. Whether you're exploring the diverse urban landscape of Toronto or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of prairies, mountains, and rivers, Canada offers a varied and enjoyable lifestyle without the need to venture beyond its borders.
Why go to Canada?
Canada combines stunning natural landscapes with culturally diverse cities and towns. It's not surprising that an increasing number of digital nomads and expatriates from around the world are choosing to make Canada their home. The country's attractions make remote work particularly advantageous. Canada has successfully maintained its abundant natural resources over the years. When urban life becomes weary, a quick escape to one of Canada's magnificent national parks provides a refreshing change of scenery.
Being one of the wealthiest and most prosperous countries in the world, Canada provides plenty of professional opportunities along with a diverse selection of coworking spaces. In its major cities, you'll also come across temporary office spaces and laid-back cafes.
Moreover, in June 2023, Sean Fraser, the Minister of Immigration, introduced the government's new immigration strategy. This strategy comprises three main components, including the digital nomad initiative, allowing foreign professionals engaged in remote work for foreign companies to reside and work in Canada for up to 6 months. Under this digital nomad strategy, individuals employed by foreign companies can live in Canada for half a year, contributing to local communities by spending money. If they receive a job offer during their stay, they have the option to extend their time and work in Canada. According to this official page, digital nomads do not require a work permit for remote work in Canada. They can visit for up to 6 months using a visitor's visa or electronic travel authorization, depending on their country of origin. The processing time for this procedure is 0 to 2 months. However, specific conditions must be met: working for an employer outside Canada, engaging in remote work as a digital nomad, and having the intention to travel across Canada.
What you need to know before traveling to Canada
Citizens of most countries need a visa to visit Canada, and you can apply for a visitor's visa online. As part of the application process, you might need to submit your biometric data. On arrival, immigration officials will stamp your passport, specifying the duration of your stay. Typically, most visitors are granted a six-month visa.
Canadian cities attract digital nomads
Ottawa
As the economic and commercial hub of Canada and the administrative capital of the country, Ottawa serves as an excellent starting point for digital nomads looking to explore all that Canada has to offer. With a population exceeding one million, Ottawa stands as a vast urban center. What sets Ottawa apart is its abundance of natural resources, evident in its parks, gardens, and various green spaces – a feature not common in many major cities worldwide. Its strategic location between Montreal and Toronto makes it ideal for those eager to explore the country. Moreover, there are numerous coworking spaces in Ottawa where you can comfortably work with your laptop.
Winnipeg
Winnipeg, the capital and largest city of Manitoba, is another popular destination for digital nomads. This economically developed city boasts numerous parks, museums, rivers, and historic neighborhoods to discover throughout your stay. Winnipeg not only provides a comfortable and calm setting for remote work but also offers a wide array of leisure activities to keep you engaged during your free time.
Montreal
As the second-largest city in Canada, Montreal serves as the urban hub of the province of Quebec and undeniably stands out as one of the most dynamic cities in North America. It is particularly popular with French and French-speaking individuals from around the globe. Montreal is a captivating fusion of North American and French cultures, making it an ideal choice for digital nomads torn between the two sides of the Atlantic. The skyline is dominated by towering contemporary skyscrapers juxtaposed with the historic buildings of Old Montreal, dating back to the 18th century. Amidst this blend, you'll discover a diverse array of French-style cafés, restaurants, fast-food chains, and, not to forget, a variety of enjoyable coworking spaces to cater to different preferences!
Internet and coworking spaces in Canada
Canada has very good internet connection. As per the government website, about 79% of the Canadian population enjoys access to high-speed internet. The Génération Clic site notes that the average download speed in Canada is 18.64 Mbps, with notable variations between the speeds experienced in the eastern and western regions of the country. Toronto and Ottawa are recognized for providing the fastest internet connections in Canada, whereas in the West, particularly in Vancouver, the maximum speed hovers around 15 Mbps.
In Canada, you'll also find a wide choice of workspaces, from coworking to temporary offices and Wi-Fi cafés.
Coworking spaces in Toronto
East Room, 50 Carroll St
Startuptive, 123 Edward St. Suite 200
Project Spaces King West, 123 Edward St. Suite 200
Coworking spaces in Winnipeg
Launch Coworking Space, 1460 Chevrier Blvd #200
TableSpace Coworking, 196 Osborne St
Creative Manitoba, 300-245 McDermot Avenue
Coworking spaces in Montreal
Montréal CoWork, 4388 rue Saint-Denis #200
The Collective, 60 St Jacques St
ECTO, 936 Mont-Royal Ave E
Coworking spaces in Vancouver
L'Atelier, 319 W Hastings St #400
The Network Hub, 422 Richards St #170
Hive Vancouver, 210 – 128, West Hastings Street
Leisure in Canada
Canada is home to numerous lively cities that offer a diverse range of leisure activities, from museums and exhibitions to various cultural events held throughout the year. In the majority of the country, winter sports take center stage, with opportunities for skiing, cross-country skiing, snow biking, snowshoeing, and ice skating available in many locations across Canada. Additionally, you'll have the chance to explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse national parks that the country has to offer. Must-see destinations include Banff, Jasper, and Stanley national parks. Popular natural attractions like Lake Ontario, Horseshoe Falls, Lake Peyto, and Lake Minnewanka also draw considerable attention.
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