Canada’s tech scene has flourished as a hub of innovation, making it increasingly attractive to high-tech professionals searching for a new home. However, with so many opportunities available, making an informed decision when relocating can be challenging.
Toronto’s tech hub is now the third-largest in North America, behind Chicago and Silicon Valley. But this growth in big-name tech companies has come at the expense of higher salaries for local employees.
Cost of Living
Canada has become a mecca for tech professionals from around the world due to its vibrant tech community and low cost of living. A recent CBRE report ranked Toronto fourth worldwide among talent markets, ahead of Austin, Texas; San Jose, California; and Seattle, Washington.
These cities are drawing capital and resources from around the globe as they strive to develop their tech communities. But smaller communities across Canada are also joining in on the action, asserting their place in Canada’s tech-driven growth.
In Ottawa, tech employment now accounts for more than 12% of the city’s workforce – nearly double what it was in the US. This growth can be attributed to Ottawa’s expanding economy and welcoming immigration policies.
Tech companies are expanding operations in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver as they attempt to keep up with Silicon Valley’s rapid expansion. At the same time, they’re seeking to attract and retain Canadian workers who can often command high salaries at a fraction of the price tag of those in Silicon Valley.
Work-Life Balance
Canada’s vibrant tech sector has made work-life balance an increasingly important aspect of life. Maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal pursuits is essential for both personal health and contentment.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance can improve your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing, reduce stress levels, prevent burnout, boost productivity and lead to positive individual and business outcomes. Furthermore, it helps retain employees and attract new talent – so it’s worth taking the time to find the ideal balance for your workplace.
However, it’s essential to note that defining work-life balance can be tricky since different employees and personalities will have differing perceptions of how much time they should dedicate to their job. Therefore, leaders should create a comprehensive definition that aligns with their company values and goals so employees understand their balance as it relates to overall success and helps improve culture as well as employee retention rates.
Education
If you’re a tech professional in Canada, it is essential that you are well informed about the educational system here. Make sure your credentials are assessed for Canadian equivalency and take necessary steps to improve your English language abilities.
In addition to your educational credentials, it is essential that you comprehend how your occupation is practiced in Canada. Doing so will enable you to prepare for the workplace and cultivate a network of contacts within the industry.
Canada offers several immigration pathways to attract tech talent to the country. Popular options include the Global Talent Stream and Provincial Nominee Programs.
Community
Canada’s tech scene is on the rise. Toronto in particular has become a mecca for high-growth tech businesses due to its business-friendly infrastructure and world-class talent pool of technologists.
Canada’s remarkable economic recovery has made the country increasingly attractive to foreign workers, particularly tech talent, as employers across the country seek out immigrants for labour market gaps. Immigrants can apply to Canada via the Global Talent Stream (GTS), which expedites their processing and grants them work authorization.
If you are a tech professional considering moving to Canada, it’s essential to know where to begin. With its diverse career opportunities and low unemployment rate, as well as global companies offering superior benefits packages, Canada is an ideal destination for tech workers looking to make a change.
