I can live either in Canada or in the US... How to choose?

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Member since 02 May 2012

novaguiMember02 May 2012 21:17:16

Hi there,

I've been living in Montreal for 2 years now and I'm going to get my permanent Visa in about 1 week (I'm originally from Belgium).

I like it here, I've got a good job, a girlfriend and I love the city. In one word: life's quite good.

However, I've been selected for further processing in the American Diversity Immigrant Visa (to get a Green Card). As a result, I'll have to choose between the US and Canada.

I've already lived 6 months in the US (South Carolina) where I was studying as an international student. I loved the experience and I've been going to the US every 2-3 months since then.

I'm not sure whether I want to stay in Canada here or leave to the US though.

On the one hand, I love the Canadian nature, good food in Montreal, the European/American mix, and the 4 seasons. I think I'd prefer to raise my kids in Canada as it's safer and less expensive.

On the other hand, I love the US. I could easily imagine to live in California (SF area) for the weather and great job opportunities.

Key factors to me are:

- Security (crime rate)
- Education (level and price)
- Climate
- Economy
- Political stability
- Healthcare system
- Tax
- General quality of life

I'm kinda lost...any input would be greatly appreciated

Harmonie ViP

Member since 13 June 2011

HarmonieViP03 May 2012 06:36:39

19273

Hello novagui and welcome to Expat.com!

Hope that you'll soon be able to take the right decision.

Harmonie.

BOSTON MAMA Contributor

Member since 27 February 2011

BOSTON MAMAContributor03 January 2013 02:45:10

132

California is wonderful. Weather in San Fran is not so warm as San Diego. However, the public school system in California is not wonderful, pressure for children to succeed and have (expensive) tutors and a million extra activities is great. however, people in California are very laid back and friendly. There is a ton of things to do.

Taxes...yup they are high. Cost of gas high, food..not to high Surf is good, flights to Hawaii are affordable.

Costs for medications will vary with your health plan.

Its all I can offer for now.

Best of luck

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