As someone who’s lived life as a Canadian and as an expat, I’ve had my fair share of realizations about the changes back home.
Canada, once celebrated for its high quality of life and strong social systems, is now experiencing a shift that’s causing many long time residents and newcomers to reconsider their stay.
Let’s delve into the reasons why people are leaving Canada for good.
Disclaimer: Why People are Leaving Canada
Please note that while I am going to list many drivers behind Canadian emigration, I want to ensure people that Canada is still a relatively decent place to live in the broad scheme of things. Of course It has it’s issues but there are genuinely good things about the country. So, don’t feel discouraged if you’re reading this and still want to come to Canada. My goal is to make your expectations realistic. Now without further ado, let’s look at the reasons behind why people are leaving Canada for good.
Reason 1. Our Declining Healthcare System
Sadly, our once celebrated healthcare system is starting to show signs of disarray. The Canadian healthcare system is currently grappling with several significant challenges many of which you’ve likely heard in the news. These issueas are not limited to:
- Lengthy waiting times
- A capped supply of healthcare professionals and specialized doctors
- Increasing patient demands.
- Pandemic-induced backlogs
- Lack of hospital beds
As of 2023, the Fraser Institute reported that the median wait time between a referral from a general practitioner and getting the treatment was 27.7 weeks. This represents the longest delay in the history of their survey and is significantly longer than the 9.3-week wait patients could expect in 1993.
But it’s more than just the increased waiting times at play here. The healthcare system’s challenges are compounded by the aging baby boomer generation, which is expected to significantly increase healthcare demand in the coming years.
Fortunately, The federal and provincial governments acknowledge the situation’s un-sustainability and are working towards solutions, however many Canadians are weary to admit experiencing positive changes and some are even worried for the future of Canadian healthcare quality. A report from the C.D. Howe Institute has highlighted Canada’s need for a healthcare system overhaul to better meet the needs of our growing population.
Furthermore, There is currently immense pressure on the remaining medical staff, leading to heartbreaking stories of patients suffering in waiting rooms, Canadian doctors mentally breaking down, and surgeons packing up and heading to California to get paid more their troubles down south. Sadly, the reality of our once exemplary healthcare system is one of long waiting lists, hallway stays due to the lack of beds, and delays in elective surgeries and cancer screenings.
From my Physician friend’s experience, she stated all the above was similar to what she deals with on a daily basis. The post-pandemic healthcare atmosphere has revealed a grim situation for Canadian healthcare. However, in contrast, my time in Spain has shown me that efficient, affordable healthcare is achievable.
Furthermore, it’s gotten so bad that Canada’s politiicians are now floating out the idea of privatization of healthcare in Canada’s once celebrated public health system. An integration that would be aimed at un-clogging our backed-up and sluggish system.
Either-way, the consensus is clear, Canadians (and newcomers) are seeing our healthcare challenges clearly, leaving them wondering if they’ll get the necessary support when they’re the ones in need.
2. Rising Crime Rates – Lock Your Doors
Take a look at the news this evening and it’s blatantly clear that violent crime and theft are on the rise in Canadian cities. The Greater Toronto Area, for instance, is witnessing unprecedented levels of home invasions and car thefts, often outsmarting the police and increasing the sense of insecurity among residents.
Crime rates in Canada, particularly in certain areas, have been a cause for concern in recent years. The overall Crime Severity Index (CSI) in Canada has been on an upward trend, rising by 4% in 2022, which followed an increase from the previous year as well.
This pattern marks a shift from the earlier decline seen at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, where there was a drop in the overall volume and severity of police-reported crime.
Notably, violent crime, as measured by the Violent Crime Severity Index, reached its highest point since 2007, indicating a significant escalation in the intensity and frequency of violent incidents. The increase in violent crime included higher rates of offenses like robbery, extortion, homicide, and level 1 sexual assault.
Moreover, the rate of firearm-related violent crime in Canada has been on a concerning rise. In 2022, the rate was 36.7 incidents per 100,000 population, an 8.9% increase from the previous year. This rate has grown more quickly than other types of violent crimes, marking a 55% increase since its lowest point in 2013.
The types of crimes contributing to this increase have varied. For instance, property crimes such as motor vehicle theft saw a notable rise of 24% in 2022. Other offenses like breaking and entering, minor theft, shoplifting, and general fraud also showed upward trends. However, some non-violent violations like drug offenses, identity fraud, and identity theft have seen a decrease.
This increase in crime rates, especially violent and property crimes, has been a key concern for Canadians and contributes to the reasons why some may consider moving to other countries. The rising trend in crime, alongside other factors like economic challenges and healthcare system strains, forms a composite picture of the current challenges facing Canada
3. Rampant Immigration Abuse
The rise of diploma mills in Canada is alarming. These institutions are primarily attracting international students as a quick pathway to Canadian residency, unfortunately at the cost of devaluing our esteemed trade schools and colleges. This practice, once limited to private colleges, is now being adopted by accredited institutions, driven by the lure of profit.
The educational landscape in Canada is undergoing significant changes, raising concerns about the long-term implications for the country’s reputation in higher education.
While there isn’t direct data linking the rise of diploma mills to a decline in educational standards, the perception is growing that these institutions could undermine the value of Canadian education, especially in trades and technical fields.
The issue reflects broader questions about maintaining educational integrity and excellence in the face of changing demographics and economic pressures.
The issue of diploma mills in Canada, particularly those institutions with a high percentage of international students, has been increasingly highlighted. According to Free Moose Press, several institutions have been identified as potential diploma mills, characterized by having over 50% of their student population made up of international students. This list includes Algoma University, Cambrian College, Canadore College, Cape Breton University, Conestoga College, Lambton College, Loyalist College, Niagara College, Northern College, Sault College, and Trinity Western University.
These institutions have drawn attention due to the large proportion of international students in their programs, raising concerns about the quality of education provided. It’s important to consider that the term “diploma mill” in this context seems to be defined based on student demographics rather than the academic rigor or accreditation status of the institutions.
Typically, diploma mills are understood to be places that offer degrees with little or no academic study and are not recognized by real accrediting bodies. However, the implication here seems to be that a high percentage of international students might correlate with lowered academic standards or a focus on profit over educational quality.
This perspective contributes to the broader discussion on the quality of higher education in Canada and the challenges faced by institutions in maintaining educational standards while also attracting international students. The role of international students in Canadian higher education has been a subject of ongoing debate, particularly concerning their impact on university revenues and the dynamics within Canadian educational institutions.
For more detailed information and updates on this issue, you may refer to Free Moose Press and other educational news sources.
4. Diverging Ideological Values
Canada’s political landscape is highly progressive, but this doesn’t always align with the values of many Canadians and newcomers from more conservative backgrounds. The ideological shift in Canada is causing a bit of discomfort and restlessness and is also subtle yet significant reason driving people away.
The ideological landscape in Canada is complex and now diverging, with broad chasms of political leanings as you slice and dice our demographic. The divergence makes Canadians feel like their views that are not always represented in current political climate. One example of this was the outrage behind Employment and Social Development Canada’s implementation on menstrual products in federal buildings’ bathrooms regardless of gender.
These changes in sentiment across the population increase the distrust in the political and institutional class in Canada, and increasingly fuel the fire of wanting to leave Canada for good.
5. Economic Uphill Battles For All
The cost of living in Canada’s major cities has gotten to exorbitant levels of expensive. Many, particularly the younger generation, find themselves trapped in a toxic cycle of work, pay bills, sleep, and repeat with little left for savings or leisure. A stark contrast to what their ancestors experienced in Canada a few decades earlier.
Many Canadians, young and old are now in search of a better work-life balance, causing many to relocate to countries like Portugal, and Costa Rica where the cost of living is more manageable, and their skills are in demand.
Now back to the the cost of living in Canada, the situation in 2024 is challenging for all, especially city dwellers. In cities like Toronto, a couple can expect to spend over $3,300 per month, and for a comfortable life, an income of about C$120,000 per year is needed at minimum. Notice we said a ‘comfortable life’? Yes, 120,000 is a low income for those in Toronto and Vancouver. In fact you may not even have much for savings after rent, taxes, and food costs are paid. No wonder many are opting out Completely.
Utility costs, including electricity and internet, add up to around $285 monthly. Additionally, groceries can cost an average of $323 per month.
Public transit varies by city, with an average monthly pass costing around $106.
These costs, coupled with the high prices of housing in major cities, create a demanding financial situation for many residents, especially in urban areas like Toronto and Vancouver.
This financial pressure is a key reason why many young Canadians and retirees are exploring opportunities in countries with lower living costs. The desire for a more balanced lifestyle, or to simply to find a country where there’s more work available is driving this trend.
5. High Taxes, and They’re Getting Higher
Canada’s taxation system is becoming a deterrent, especially for online entrepreneurs. Countries with more favorable tax policies for digital products and services are becoming increasingly attractive for business incorporation. A good example is Panama which offers no Electronic Sales Tax essentially safeguarding your online income if you incorporate or are a citizen there.
This tax landscape is increasingly viewed as less competitive, especially when compared to other countries that offer more favorable terms for businesses, particularly those in the digital domain. Many online entrepreneurs are exploring these options as a way to enhance their profitability and reduce the tax burden. This factor, combined with the other challenges of living and doing business in Canada, contributes to the consideration by many to relocate or shift their business operations elsewhere.
The above information reflects a snapshot of Canada’s tax landscape in 2024, demonstrating the challenges faced by businesses, especially smaller enterprises and digital entrepreneurs. The tax system’s complexity, combined with relatively high rates, is a notable factor in the decision-making process for these individuals considering relocation or business restructuring. (Sources: Canada Revenue Agency
7. Diminished Job Opportunities
The Canadian job market is increasingly demanding local experience, even from those who have it. Recent trends show a decline in private sector job creation, contrary to the growth in public sector employment. This imbalance is making it difficult for both locals and immigrants to find fulfilling employment opportunities, as evidenced by the long lines at job fairs.
The Canadian job market in 2024 presents a mixed picture. On one hand, there has been a modest increase in employment, primarily driven by part-time work. January 2024 saw an employment rise of 37,000 jobs, a 0.2% increase from the previous month, dominated by gains in part-time employment. Despite this, the overall employment rate has been on a downward trend for four consecutive months, indicating a more challenging job market for certain segments of the population, particularly young women aged 15 to 24 and core-aged women and men (Statistics Canada).
There’s also an interesting dynamic in terms of public versus private sector employment. The public sector saw a notable rise in employment (48,000 jobs), while private sector employment remained largely unchanged. This trend reflects a growing emphasis on public sector roles in the current economic landscape.
However, the Canadian job market is showing signs of returning to pre-pandemic levels. Unemployment rates have stabilized between 5% and 6%, suggesting an end to the volatility seen in previous years, such as the extreme labor shortages and the Great Resignation phase. Key areas like manufacturing, food service, and administration are still experiencing labor shortages, but overall, job vacancies are at record lows in most industries. This normalization of the job market points to a more familiar environment for employers and employees alike (IMercer).
Additionally, there’s an increasing demand for specific professions. Healthcare remains a top sector due to the aging population and evolving healthcare needs. There’s also a significant demand in fields like information technology and software development, where Canada has seen a considerable influx of global tech workers. Skilled trades are also in high demand, driven by ongoing construction and infrastructure development. Other areas like finance, accounting, sales, marketing, engineering, and human resources are also seeing growing demand for professionals (Staffhouse).
Wrapping Up – Should You Stay or Should You Go?
In conclusion, while Canada still holds a special place in my heart, the current trends in healthcare, education, economy, and safety are becoming reasons for many to look elsewhere for a better quality of life. As a Canadian expat, I’ve experienced firsthand the benefits of exploring new horizons, and it seems I’m not alone in this journey.
For any Canadians or anyone else unsure of the Canadian dream, taking the leap to a new affordable life outside the North maybe your best option. At least if it’s only temporary. If your looking for the right country for your lifestyle we’ve got you covered. Make sure to take the Leaving Canada Quiz below to identify where you truly belong:
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