Canada Digital Nomad Visa Guide (2024)

Do you want to live and work in the Great White North? Do you want to spend your days exploring the mesmerizing nature of the world’s second-biggest country? 

Well, you’re in luck because, ever since July 2024, Canada has been welcoming digital nomads as temporary visitors!

For years, Canada has been known as one of the most diverse countries in the world. It has gradually increased its population over the previous century by welcoming foreigners from around the world and offering them various job opportunities.

Now, Canada has stepped up its game with the recent Tech Talent Strategy that invites digital nomads to spend 6 months in Canada as visitors who travel and work remotely.

Compared to other countries, the process of getting this Canadian visa is relatively easy and straightforward for citizens of most nations.

In this article, you will learn the details about:

• The types of visas and permits suitable for digital nomads in Canada,
• Rules and procedures you need to follow when applying for a Canadian visa, 
• Advantages and disadvantages of living in Canada, 
• Best destinations for digital nomads in Canada, and 
• Tips and further reading suggestions for digital nomads in Canada.  

Okay, let’s get right to it!

Quick digital nomad visa facts for Canada

Here are some quick facts about visas in Canada suitable for the digital nomad lifestyle.

Canada visa questions	Canada visa answers
Does Canada have a digital nomad visa?	Not in name, but digital nomads are welcome to stay in Canada with a visitor status.
What types of visas does Canada offer to digital nomads?	– Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), or – Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Eligibility depends on your nationality.
When was Canada’s digital nomad visa introduced?	From July 2024 onwards, digital nomads officially have the possibility to work temporarily in Canada.
Who can apply for Canada’s digital nomad visa?	People from all over the world can enter Canada as visitors and stay in the country as digital nomads – no special work visa is required.
How much does Canada’s digital nomad visa cost?	The cost depends on your specific country and nationality.
Canada’s digital nomad visa length?	6 months
Minimum stay requirement?	Not specified.
Is it possible to extend a visa?	No.
What are the minimum income requirements?	There are no specific minimum income requirements.
Processing time for visa application?	Varies drastically between countries
Can I apply for Canada’s digital nomad visa with my family members?	Yes. Family members must fill out separate application forms, but applications can be submitted together and charged on a single receipt.

What can you expect as a digital nomad in Canada?

As Canada invites digital nomads as visitors and the interest in this lifestyle increases worldwide, let’s take a look at what to expect as a digital nomad in Canada.

Canada digital nomad FAQ	Canada digital nomad answers
Average Internet speed:	– 201.32 Mbps — median download speed – 56.28 Mbps — median upload speed
The most popular place for digital nomads in Canada:	Winnipeg
Best coworking space in the most popular place for digital nomads in Canada	Launch Coworking – Southside (4.9 stars from 96 votes) — Winnipeg
Weather in Canada’s most popular place for digital nomads:	– Average annual temperature — 3.41°C (38.138°F); – Coldest month average temperatures (January) — -15°C (4°F); – Hottest month average temperatures (July) — 20°C (68°F); – Annual amount of sunshine hours: 2360; – Annual snowy days: 128.
Type of climate:	From arctic to temperate
Annual air quality average:	– US AQI 23 (good quality) – PM 2.5 — 2.1 times the WHO annual air quality guideline value (unhealthy for sensitive groups)
Average cost of living:	– Single person: Can$1,442.3 (~$1,032.49) per month (without rent) – Family of 4: Can$5,189.5 (~$3,714.96) per month (without rent)
Average coworking space cost:	Can$403.5 (~$288.69) per person per month
Crime rate:	45.67/100 (considered moderate)
Interesting fact for digital nomads:	Canada took the 10th spot on the list of best countries for digital nomads in the 2024 Global Digital Nomad Report.

Canada’s visa application process

In order to visit Canada, you will most likely need one of the following visas:

• Visitor visa (aka Temporary Resident Visa or TRV) or
• Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

The duration of your stay, the minimum income requirement, as well as whether your visa will be a single-entry or a multiple-entry visa, depend not only on your nationality but also on your specific circumstances.

Since Canada’s visa application process is highly individual, your best bet would be to check the official Government of Canada website and see which steps you need to follow to apply for a visa.

We know that sounds complicated, but don’t worry. Unlike many other countries, Canada’s website is very straightforward, uses fewer “government speak” sentences than any other official website we’ve seen, and offers you the chance to explore exactly what type of visa you need to apply for to make your workation plans come true.

If you declare that you’re a digital nomad when applying for a visa, Canada will allow you to stay in the country for up to 6 months without the need for a work permit.

What types of visas does Canada offer for digital nomads?

Canada does not offer a visa specifically tailored to digital nomads. However, Canada’s initiative to attract top talent from around the world allows foreigners to move to Canada temporarily and explore it while working remotely for a non-Canadian company.

This move from the Canadian government came as no surprise. In 2024, Canada has been becoming an increasingly popular option for digital nomads —  it currently ranks 12th on the list of most visited countries by digital nomads, according to The Nomad List.

So, it makes sense that the Canadian government wants to attract more digital nomads. 

Canada essentially views digital nomads as visitors working for other countries. This means that the only visa type suitable for digital nomads in Canada is a visitor visa, or, in certain specific cases, the Super visa, for people visiting their children in Canada.

Here are the main rules you need to be aware of as a digital nomad applying for a visitor visa in Canada: 

• You are allowed to stay for up to 6 months.
• You are required to work remotely for a non-Canadian employer.
• If you are self-employed, you need to be working for yourself or provide services to clients outside of Canada.
• You’re allowed to declare that you are searching for a job in Canada. If you find one, you are supposed to apply for a work permit.
• Your family members who plan to work or study in Canada have to apply for a work or study permit separately.

Before you consider applying for a Canadian visa, make sure to check which visa you need to apply for, based on your nationality and passport.

Digital nomads need to apply for either a TRV or the eTA to visit Canada.

Let’s take a closer look at the differences between these 2 types of documents and explore what you need to do so you can live and work in Canada as a digital nomad.

Type #1: Visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa or TRV)

A visitor visa (also called a Temporary Resident Visa) is an official document that is stamped in your passport. This is something that citizens of most countries of the world are required to have in order to enter Canada as a visitor.

To get a visitor visa, you will need to demonstrate that:

• You have a valid travel document,
• You are in good health,
• You have no criminal or immigration-related convictions,
• You have ties to your home country (a job, home, financial assets, or family),
• You have enough money for your stay (the exact amount depends on how long you will stay, whom you will stay with, and where), and, finally,
• You will leave Canada at the end of your visit.

Other than the travel document, residents of most countries will also need to present their biometric data.

Each application is evaluated individually, and the immigration officer decides whether to issue a single-entry or a multiple-entry visa as well as how long that visa will be valid for, based on your specific situation.

Generally, a visitor visa may be valid for up to a maximum of 10 years, or until the expiry of either your passport or biometric data.

As per official information, digital nomads will generally be granted a 6-month visitor visa. 

However, at the port of entry, the border services officer may allow you to stay for less or more than 6 months. The date by which you need to leave Canada will be stamped in your passport. The officers might also give you a document called a “visitor record”, showing the date by which you need to leave Canada.

Type #2: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

The Electronic Travel Authorization is issued to citizens of many visa-exempt countries for Canada. An eTA is electronically linked to your passport and it is valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires.

Keep in mind that having an eTA doesn’t guarantee you entry to Canada. When you arrive, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and other documents. You must prove to the officer that you’re eligible for entry to Canada.

The eTA can be issued in a few simple steps, and you can apply through an online form.

You need to have your passport ready in order to fill in the necessary information as well as your credit or debit card to pay the Can$7 (~$5.01) fee.

Most applications will be approved within minutes and you will get an email about your eTA application.

You may also need to submit additional documents before your application can be approved. You will be notified whether this is necessary within 72 hours of your application.

After you get approved, that’s it, you are ready to go to Canada!

What documents do I need to apply for Canada’s digital nomad visa?

The specific required documents vary depending on your home country, your nationality, and the type of visa you are applying for.

What’s more, even after submitting general documents, you may be asked to present additional documents based on your specific situation.

The most common documents required from digital nomads in Canada include:

• A valid passport (which needs to be valid for the duration of your stay),
• A filled-out application form (specific to the visa type),
• Proof of employment or business (documentation that can prove you are a digital nomad),
• Financial documents such as bank statements or other proof of financial stability (the amount will vary depending on your specific situation and assessed by an immigration officer),
• Health insurance (required coverage will vary based on your specific situation), and
• Additional documents that may be requested by the visa office.

The official government website also recommends submitting the following documents to make your visa approval more likely:

• Travel history (proof that you’ve been able to get a visa in the past, such as copies of previous visas in your passport, etc.),
• Your itinerary (documents that show how long you plan to stay and what you plan to do in Canada), and 
• Bank account statements (proving you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in Canada).

Biometric data

You might also be required to provide biometric data (your fingerprints and a color photograph) and pay a Can$85 (~$60.82) biometrics fee when applying for a visitor visa in Canada.

You can check whether you need to provide biometrics on the official website.

Who is eligible to apply for Canada’s digital nomad visa?

You are eligible to apply for Canada’s visitor visa and work as a digital nomad in the country as long as:

• Your work can be done remotely,
• You are currently working for a non-Canadian company, are self-employed, or are a freelancer with clients strictly outside of Canada,
• You provide all of the documents requested by your local Visa Application Center, and
• Have sufficient funds to support yourself during your 6-month stay (the exact amount will be estimated and determined individually).

Having individual proof of accommodation or arrangements with friends or family in Canada will be beneficial, as it will demonstrate you have ties to Canada.

Your family members or friends from Canada can make your application process easier by writing a letter of recommendation for you.

Are you eligible if you are a United States citizen?

Yes. As a US citizen, you are eligible to visit Canada — you don’t even have to provide biometric data. You only need a valid US passport, passport card, or NEXUS card (expedited processing card for US citizens, US lawful permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Canadian lawful permanent residents and Mexican nationals who are members of Mexico’s trusted traveller program).

Are you eligible if you are a US Green Card holder?

Yes, as a US Green Card holder, you can visit Canada.

You will need to present a valid passport from your country of nationality (or an equivalent travel document accepted by Canada) and your valid Green Card (or equivalent valid proof of permanent residency in the United States).

Are you eligible if you are an EU citizen?

Yes, most EU citizens are eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). The process is very straightforward, and the fee will probably cost you only Can$7 (~$5.01).

In case you also need to provide biometric data with your application, you’ll have to pay an additional Can$85 (~$60.82) fee.

How do I get a digital nomad visa for Canada?

The process of applying for Canada’s visitor visa is fairly straightforward.

To make it even clearer, we have divided the process into 7 steps you need to follow to acquire your Canada visitor visa.

Step #1: Check what type of visa to apply for

As we already mentioned above, you need to check the official website and see what type of visa you need, based on your passport and nationality.

You can either apply online through the IRCC portal or at your nearest Visa Application Center (VAC). 

If you’re eligible for an eTA, the process will be very simple and you’ll be able to complete it online. However, you may be required to submit your biometric data — in which case you will need to book an appointment at your local VAC.

If you’re currently located in your home country, we highly suggest applying at the Visa Application Center and asking around for specific documents you might need to present, to raise your chances of getting approved.

Step #2: Gather the necessary documents

The next step is to gather all the necessary documents from the checklist.

You can check which exact documents you need on the IRCC document checklist.

If this is your first time applying, we advise you to book an appointment at your local Visa Application Center and apply in person.

Step #3: Apply online or schedule an in-person meeting in your country

When applying for a visitor visa (the Temporary Resident Visa) you can either: 

• Download the application form, fill it in electronically, print it on high-quality non-glossy paper, and bring it with you to the Visa Application Center, or 
• Submit your online application through the IRCC portal. 

If you apply online, you will have to submit the necessary documents through the IRCC portal.

After you apply (regardless of how you submitted your application), you need to book an appointment with your local VAC if your local VAC requests it.

At the local VAC, you will either need to provide biometric data, or submit your passport, photographs, completed forms, the Government of Canada fee, and all the supporting documents listed in the IRCC document checklist.

At the VAC, you will also likely be questioned in a formal interview, in which you will disclose all of the details of your travel.

If you do not need to provide biometric data and your VAC doesn’t request an appointment, you just have to wait for your application to be processed.

Step #4: Pay the application fee

You will need to pay the Government of Canada fee (most likely Can$100 (~$71.57)) and, if applicable, the biometric data fee Can$85 (~$60.82).

Your local VAC will give you more information on how to pay these fees. 

Step #5: Wait for the processing to be completed

The processing time for the visa varies drastically depending on which country you’re applying from.

Since Canada welcomes people from all around the world, there is no definitive answer to the question of how long you will have to wait, but we highly suggest applying as early as possible and explaining your situation and exact travel plans during your VAC appointment.

The Government of Canada’s official website offers a useful processing time estimator that you can check out.

If you apply online, you will also be able to check your application status in real time.

Checking your visa application process will probably also be possible through the portal of your local VAC.

Step #6: Pick up your passport

After the decision has been made by the VAC, you’ll be notified to pick up your passport.

One thing to note here is that, once you receive it, you are expected to personally check the details of the visa, to ensure that it is valid for the:

• Date of your requested date of entry to Canada, 
• Number of entries required, and 
• Purpose of the trip.

These things will be determined by the visa office and they may be different from what you originally requested in your application, so make sure to double-check!

Step #7: Go to Canada

If your visa is approved, congratulations! You can pack up and go to Canada at any point between the dates stated on your visa.

Costs you need to consider as a digital nomad in Canada

Now that we know how you can go to Canada as a digital nomad, let’s see how much it will cost you.

First, we need to address the elephant in the room. In recent years, Canada has become one of the most notoriously expensive countries when it comes to renting and buying real estate.

One-bedroom apartments in large Canadian cities can cost a staggering Can$2,700 per month on average!

That explains why most Canadians spend the biggest portion of their income on rent, as shown on the graph below.

For this reason, many digital nomads who visit Canada prefer to visit smaller, rural, and less popular areas rather than large metropolises such as Toronto or Vancouver.

Of course, apart from rent, there are many other costs to consider. 

However, since Canada is such a huge country, and laws and prices differ between provinces, it is extremely hard to give even rough estimates. 

Some of the following numbers represent the averages across the entire country. Actual prices will probably be different depending on the province and city you choose to settle in.

Expense #1: Аccommodation

As many people looking to settle in Canada are probably aware, rent prices have been on the rise for years now. Compared to other popular digital nomad destinations, Canada’s rent prices are certainly among the highest.

Here is the list of average prices for 1-bedroom apartments in the city center, in popular Canadian cities:

Canadian City	Accommodation costs
Vancouver	Can$2,797.15 (~$2,003.14)
Toronto	Can$2,517.76 (~$1,803.16)
Halifax	Can$2,021.57 (~$1,447.80)
Winnipeg	Can$1,270.35 (~$910.35)
Montreal	Can$1,684.25 (~$1,206.82)
Ottawa	Can$2,006.72 (~$1,437.89)
Edmonton	Can$1,564.43 (~$1,120.97)

In practice, this will likely mean that you will need to carefully choose where to settle, based on your monthly rent budget.

Expense #2: Groceries

In 2024, due to inflation, certain food prices have increased compared to the previous year.

You might be able to find some groceries at lower prices in specific provinces and store chains, but since the increase, the prices have generally remained stable.

Here is a detailed list of prices of some most commonly bought groceries in Canada: 

Groceries	Grocery prices in Canada
Loaf of fresh bread, 500g (1.1 lb)	Can$3.69 (~$2.63)
Water 1.5 l (50.7 fl oz)	Can$2.48 (~$1.77)
Milk 1 l (33.8 fl oz)	Can$3.04 (~$2.16)
Chicken filets 1 kg (2.2 lb)	Can$16.86 (~$12)
Cheese 1 kg (2.2 lb)	Can$15.60 (~$11.11)
12 eggs	Can$4.80 (~$3.42)
Apples 1 kg (2.2 lb)	Can$5.69 (~$4.05)
Potatoes 1 kg (2.2 lb)	Can$3.67 (~$2.61)

Expense #3: Utilities

In Canada, prices and payment processes for utilities vary depending on the province, municipality, and rental conditions.

The main utilities include electricity, water, and phone.

The water bill is often included in rent or paid separately through local municipal services. In Toronto, for example, the water bill might be covered by the landlord, while in other cities, tenants receive separate bills from municipal organizations.

As far as paying for electricity goes, in Canada, you can:

• Pay-as-you-go — Pay how much you spend at the end of the month, or
• Have balanced billing — The bill is calculated based on average annual energy consumption. This option is useful as you can spread your costs evenly across the entire year.

The availability of different payment options will vary based on the specific terms requested by the landlord and the electricity provider.

For example, in Ontario, the main electricity provider is Hydro One, which offers both pay-as-you-go and balanced billing.

Here is the price of electricity in Canada, in popular provinces for digital nomads: 

Province	Average total cost of electricity price per 1 kWh
Alberta	Can$0.258 (~$0.18)
British Colombia	Can$0.114 (~$0.082)
Nova Scotia	Can$0.183 (~$0.13)
Ontario	Can$0.141 (~$0.10)
Quebec	Can$0.078 (~$0.056)

When it comes to heating, places like Ontario and Alberta mainly use gas heating. Enbridge Gas and ATCO Gas companies supply natural gas, and households are billed separately, based on their usage.

Some other provinces predominantly use electric heating, which means the heating bill is included in the electricity bill.

Garbage collection is usually included in property taxes but can sometimes be charged separately.

Sewage and drainage and stormwater management are also included in the utilities. Some municipalities may issue separate bills for these services, but they are usually included in the water bills.

The average cost of utilities in Canada can vary significantly between provinces and territories. In Ontario, electricity costs range from Can$100-Can$150 (~$70.69-$106.03) per month.

In British Columbia, monthly electricity expenses are around Can$86 (~$60.79) due to hydroelectric power being cheaper.

In Toronto, a single person will spend roughly Can$92.27 (~$65.77) per month on basic utilities (for electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage), while a family of 4 will spend close to Can$151.98 (~$108.34).

Expense #4: Public transportation

Depending on your lifestyle, one of the recurring expenses you may need to consider is the cost of public transportation.

Traveling locally in Canada can be done in multiple ways, depending on what city you are in.

Most cities and larger towns in Canada have one or more of the following modes of transport:

• Buses,
• Trains,
• Subways,
• Light-rail trains, and
• Streetcars (trams).

To cover large distances, people often fly between major cities in Canada, because of the country’s sheer size, and then take trains to their desired destinations.

Canadian cities with rapid transportation systems are:

• Edmonton (LRT),
• Toronto (subway),
• Ottawa (the O-Train),
• Calgary (CTrain),
• Vancouver (SkyTrain), and
• Montreal (metro).

Let’s take a look at the cost of unlimited public transportation for all modes of transport, per month, in popular Canadian cities:

City in Canada	Monthly cost of public transport
Toronto	Can$156 (~$110.68)
Halifax	Can$90 (~$63.85)
Winnipeg	Can$111.65 (~$79.21)
Montreal	Can$100 (~$70.93)
Ottawa	Can$128.75 (~$91.32)

Expense #5: Bars and restaurants

Because of diverse people, landscapes, languages, and history, it’s really difficult to define Canada’s identity. It can best be described as an eclectic mix of cultures.

As such, it offers a variety of cuisines and culinary experiences. 

Best known for its seafood, especially on the east coast, Canada is the ideal spot for seafood lovers — especially those who like sampling unique street food.  

But there’s more than just fish to Canadian cuisine. You can commonly find Poutine (fries topped with cheese curds and hot gravy) and Tourtière (meat pie) in Quebec, Donair (wrapped doner kebab style meat, onions, and chopped tomatoes in sweet sauce) in the city of Halifax, and Beaver Tails (sweet pastries) in Ottawa. Prices of these famous Canadian dishes range depending on where you buy them.

As far as dining in restaurants goes, a 3-course meal for 2 people in a mid-range restaurant will set you back Can$100 (~$71.13), while a meal for a single person in an affordable establishment will cost around Can$25 (~17.78).

The service fee is not commonly included, and a 15-20% tip is generally expected, similar to the US. Of course, the tip should reflect how satisfied you are with the service.

Expense #6: Coworking spaces

Canada offers a lot of variety when it comes to coworking spaces in major cities.

From franchise coworking space options such as WeWork, Spaces, Selina, Impact Hub, and Techhub, to local, independently-owned spaces, most popular Canadian cities will have a variety of options for you.

The price will vary based on proximity to the city center, type of service, amenities, and other factors.

The median monthly price for a coworking space in Canada is Can$403.5 (~$288.69) per person.

Expense #7: Internet

Canada has fast and reliable internet, with 93% of its territory covered. Roughly 15.2 million Canadian households have internet coverage and just about 1.1 million do not.

Canada’s average internet speed is quite high, which is why Canada took 15th place on the Speed Test Global Index out of 158 countries.

Canadians choose their own phone and internet providers. Major companies like Bell, Rogers, Telus, and smaller regional operators are available.

Payments can be made on a monthly or a yearly basis, based on the contract. The most common method of payment is on a per-month basis, either manually or through automatic withdrawals.

The average price of a 60 Mbps package with unlimited data is around Can$70.80 (~$50.46).

Do digital nomads pay taxes in Canada?

Generally, no, you won’t need to pay taxes in Canada as a visitor.

Since you are allowed to stay in the country for up to 6 months, you won’t be considered a tax resident in Canada. Furthermore, since you are only allowed to receive income from companies or entities outside of Canada during your visit, you won’t be taxed for it during your stay. 

According to the Canadian law, you won’t be considered a tax resident if you “normally, customarily, or routinely live in another country”, or if one of the following applies:

• You lived outside of Canada throughout the year (except if you were a deemed resident of Canada — in that case, this doesn’t apply), or
• You stayed in Canada for less than 183 days during one tax year.

However, you may be considered a tax resident if you have what Canada deems “significant residential ties with Canada”.

Significant residential ties to Canada include:

• A home in Canada,
• A spouse or common-law partner in Canada, or
• Dependants in Canada.

If any of the significant residential ties apply to you, make sure to check with a tax advisor from Canada about your specific case to avoid any unsuspected tax trouble.

What are the benefits of being a digital nomad in Canada?

Visiting Canada as a digital nomad can provide a lot of unique benefits compared to other countries popular among digital nomads. 

Let’s take a look at the biggest advantages of living in Canada as a digital nomad in 2024!

Benefit #1: Polite and welcoming people

Canadians are known for their strong social etiquette. You can expect to hear “please”, “thank you” and “sorry” a lot.

On the other hand, talking to people in a slightly informal way while maintaining respect is something that’s generally expected in social interactions in Canada. 

For example, it’s not uncommon for professors to ask their students to address them by their first name and inspire discussion and interaction by loosening the formality while remaining respectful.

In Canada, most people will openly value honesty, sensitivity, and empathy with friends and strangers, as well as respecting individual differences and privacy.

Maintaining a friendly environment where everyone feels and acts as if they’re “on the same level” (even if they aren’t) is also important to most Canadians, and you will probably be expected to act similarly.

Apart from general politeness and openness, you will also be expected to always arrive on time, so plan your departure accordingly (counting in the time spent in traffic jams).

Benefit #2: Multicultural environment

Canadian multiculturalism is a result of centuries of immigration to this country. Today, Canadians come from a vast range of nations, races, religions, and heritage.

Diversity of ethnicities and nationalities is one of the most distinctive features of Canadian society. According to World Population Review, Canada takes the 34th place on the Most Diverse Countries 2024 list.

About 20% of Canadians were born outside Canada. In Toronto, Canada’s largest city, this number is over 45%.

The Canadian government values mutual respect and inclusion and ensures its citizens take pride in their heritage while finding a new sense of belonging in Canada. Since most people in Canada are foreigners in one way or another, you will never feel out of place or disregarded.

The proof of this is most obviously reflected not only in the demographics of Canada but also in its government’s anti-racism and multiculturalism policies.

Benefit #3: Progressive society

Canada is also among the most progressive countries in the world.

The country’s inclusive policies such as the 50-30 Challenge and the Disability Inclusion Action Plan, coupled with the fact that Canada is the fourth country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage (in July 2005), are good proofs of this.

Canada is also frequently featured on lists of top progressive countries, and it takes 9th place on Equaldex’s Equality score, with an equality index of 79/100.

Also, Canada takes 5th place in Freedom House’s Freedom in the World report, with a score of 39/40 for political rights, a score of 58/60 for civil liberties, and an overall score of 97/100.

Benefit #4: Highly educated people

According to the latest available data, Canada is the most educated country in the whole world.

Canada’s tertiary education attainment rate reaches 63% in 25-64 year-olds according to OECD, and the country is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities like McGill University, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Toronto.

Benefit #5: Gorgeous nature

One of the most generally agreed upon things about Canada is that it has breathtaking natural beauty.

From the Arctic tundra in Yukon, across old-growth rainforests of the Pacific coast, to glacier fjords on the eastern seaboard, Canada’s diversity is what makes it appealing to nature lovers regardless of their preferences.

Canada is a country full of beautiful scenery, so it’s impossible to pick a single best road trip in this country.

You can explore the abundant marine life in Desolation Sound in the summer, go skiing on the slopes of Mount Valin near Quebec, visit one of the 37 national parks across the country, or find the perfect place to experience the northern lights in the winter.

The options are nearly countless and researching your perfect adventure in Canada’s nature will be an adventure in and of itself!

What are the drawbacks of being a digital nomad in Canada?

Although Canada has a lot of wonderful characteristics, certain drawbacks might pose a challenge for some digital nomads.

Drawback #1: Extremely high cost of living

The aforementioned high cost of living is most directly influenced by high rent prices in major cities.

The country is currently facing big economic challenges that might be a turn-off for many digital nomads. 

In 2024, the prices are 40% higher compared to the period 3 years prior. Canadians are also reportedly eating less because of the cost of living increase, with 51% reporting changing their spending habits to make ends meet.

This is definitely a drawback you need to consider if you’re interested in living in Canada — temporarily or permanently.

Drawback #2: Immigration policy changes

One of the big talking points in Canada right now is the reduction of annual numbers of temporary and permanent immigrants. From 2025 onwards, Canada will begin decreasing the maximum annual number of immigrants — gradually, but steadily.

This might pose a challenge for some digital nomads looking to acquire a temporary resident visa, as the number of approved residents will become increasingly smaller each year.

Furthermore, this new change might also affect immigrants such as digital nomads who plan to come on a visitor visa.

Until 2024, visitors in Canada were encouraged to look for Canadian employers as a means to apply for a work visa and, by extension — a temporary residence.

In 2024, Canada’s policy allowing visitors to apply for work permits from within the country was officially terminated.

This essentially means that, today, people with visitor visas need to leave Canada and apply for another type of visa to be able to work in the country permanently.

All of these changes imply that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to find a job in Canada and that gaining a permanent residency will also be more challenging as time goes on.

Drawback #3: Extremely cold weather

The country of Canada has some of the most severe winters on the entire planet.

It’s one of the reasons the vast majority of Canada’s population lives within 160 km (100 mi) of the US border.

Depending on where you live, the cold can make even the most basic daily outdoor tasks extremely challenging — and even painful if you are not prepared adequately.

To make sure the Canadian winters don’t traumatize you for life, we suggest you:

• Do thorough research on the weather conditions in the city you plan on visiting,
• Carefully choose the time of year when you plan to visit, and 
• Opt for warmer months for your digital nomad experience.

However, even with these precautions and with avoiding months with the most extreme weather, depending on your home country and the climate you are used to, Canada will probably prove itself to be far colder than you can imagine.

5 Best destinations for digital nomads in Canada

Choosing the perfect spot to make your home base in a country this large and diverse is an incredibly challenging task.

We picked 5 unique large cities in Canada, each with its specific advantages and disadvantages, places to work, climate, cost of living, and overall vibe.

Hopefully, you’ll be able to find the right one for you. 

Let’s dive in!

Toronto — Best for those looking for a multicultural metropolis

Population: 2,832,718

City area: 631.1 km² (243.66 sq mi)

Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5)

Average internet speed: 219.21 Mbps (median download speed), 51.32 Mbps (median upload speed)

Average cost of living: Can$1,496.6 (~$1,064.19) per month for a single person (without rent); Can$5,494.2 (~$3,906.87) per month for a family of 4 (without rent)

Average cost of rent: Can$2,519.05 (~$1,791.5) per month for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center

Biggest advantage: The most multicultural Canadian city

Biggest drawback: One of the most expensive cities

Also known as “The 6” because of its original 6 municipalities, it’s safe to think of Toronto as Canada’s equivalent to NYC. It is a multicultural concrete jungle with just enough green areas. 

The city is rich in arts and culture and is home to Canada’s largest film industry as well as fine galleries and museums.

The most notable tourist attractions in the city include the:

• CN Tower, 
• Toronto Railway Museum,
• Hockey Hall of Fame, and 
• One of the coolest streets in the world — Ossington Avenue.

Since the congestion and traffic jams can get pretty chaotic, the easiest way to get around this is by taking the subway.

Toronto is a bilingual city, but proficiency in French varies in different areas of the city. Most people will be proficient in English, but some language barriers still might occur. However, this isn’t a major concern, because most people will patiently try to find a way to communicate with you and help if you ask nicely.

Due to climate change and Toronto’s geographical location, temperatures can vary from extremely high in the summer (40°C (104°F)) to extremely low in the winter (-25°C (-13°F)).

As far as nightlife goes, Queen Street West is your go-to option in Toronto if you like live music and the Distillery Historic District is the best if you prefer a more laid-back vibe. If you’re into bar hopping and late-night eats, then Kensington Market should be your area of choice in Toronto.

Although the city is mesmerizing, it comes with certain downsides too. The biggest ones include the already mentioned traffic and, unfortunately, some of the highest rent prices in the world.

Where to work in Toronto

Toronto is a metropolis with a great variety of coworking space options. The best-rated coworking space according to Google is EAST ROOM (with 4.8 stars and 169 votes).

Halifax — Best for those looking for a peaceful coastal experience  

Population: 463,416

City area: 97.23 km² (2114.12 sq mi)

Time zone: Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4)

Average internet speed: 198.54 Mbps (median download speed), 39.98 Mbps (median upload speed)

Average cost of living: Can$1,489.2 (~$1,058.94) per month for a single person (without rent); Can$5,285.9 (~$3,758.69) per month for a family of 4 (without rent)

Average cost of rent: Can$2,021.57 (~$1,437.49) per month for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center

Biggest advantage: Tranquil and unique

Biggest drawback: Lots of windy days

Halifax, the largest Canadian maritime city, is among the relatively affordable options for digital nomads coming to Canada. However, compared to other digital nomad destinations worldwide, it’s still pricey.

Halifax is a medium-sized city where even a half-hour drive is considered long, and many amenities and necessary establishments will probably be within walking distance for most people.

If you do need public transport, your only options will be buses or ferries, as this city does not have a subway system.

If you enjoy good food (especially lobster and seafood) and craft beers, this is where Halifax stands out the most. With restaurants on every corner and new ones opening up all over the city all the time, Halifax is a foody’s dream come true.

The landscape of the city and the downtown core is constantly improving and there are a lot of different sources of entertainment throughout the year.

Festivals are held throughout the city all summer long, and many festivals are also available in the winter. 

In Halifax, you will constantly have the opportunity to visit beer and rib festivals, as well as family-friendly festivals like the Buskers Festival and the Northern Lights Lantern Festival. 

Annually, Halifax has a solid 9 months of decent weather, followed by a short spring. The winters bring a mix of rain, snow, and ice starting in December and lasting until the middle of March. 

One thing to keep in mind about Halifax is that it’s very windy.

Because of the tail ends of tropical storms and hurricanes, Halifax sometimes experiences widespread power outages.

Apart from lots of windy days, the only other drawback of the city is that the liquor and grocery prices are slightly higher than in other parts of the country.

However, the more affordable cost of rent and the peaceful energy of the city will more than make up for these minor setbacks.

Where to work in Halifax

If you opt for a coworking space in Halifax, your best bet will be CoWork Halifax, with 5.0 stars based on 67 reviews on Google.

Winnipeg — Best for budget-conscious digital nomads

Population: 777,553

City area: 461.78 km² (178.29 sq mi)

Time zone: Central Standard Time (GMT-6)

Average internet speed: 218.33 Mbps (median download speed), 92.78 Mbps (median upload speed)

Average cost of living: Can$1,396.4 (~$993.01) per month for a single person (without rent); Can$5,032.7 (~$3,578.88) per month for a family of 4 (without rent)

Average cost of rent: Can$1,241.78 (~$883.05) per month for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center

Biggest advantage: Most budget friendly middle-sized city in Canada

Biggest drawback: Extremely cold weather

The capital of the province of Manitoba, Winnipeg, is located in the geographical center of North America and is sometimes referred to as “the heart of the continent“.

This peaceful city is filled with a great number of museums and galleries like the Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art, Manitoba Museum, and Leo Mol Sculpture Garden, to name a few.

Known for being an incredibly creative town, with a diverse art scene and many great live bands and performances to see during the summer, Winnipeg is a cultural gem.

It has a big international community, which — apart from various festivals that celebrate cultures from across the entire world — also brings food from all sorts of unique places. So, you’ll be able to enjoy some great dishes along with the art!

One of the commonly agreed-upon things about Winnipeg is that it’s one of the most polite Canadian cities, which isn’t surprising — Manitoba’s slogan is “Friendly Manitoba”.

Winnipeg is among the most popular, if not the most popular, travel destination for digital nomads in Canada, probably because of its relatively low cost of living compared to other major Canadian cities.

Regarding the weather, Winnipeg’s summers are characterized by 4 months of mild and pleasant temperatures.

However, the winters are a whole other story, as they are one of the biggest downsides of the city. In Winnipeg, there are about 49 days a year with temperatures of -30°C or lower, which can be unbearable for many.

However, the city of Winnipeg is well-equipped and prepared for its winters so the roads are always clear and the amenities available. 

Although the cold weather will definitely take some getting used to for most, if you can get through it, you all have an all-around fantastic experience in this beautiful city.

Where to work in Winnipeg

If you don’t plan to work from home or a cafe, Working indoors is your only long-term option in Winnipeg’s cold weather. According to Google ratings, the best place to do this is Launch Coworking – Southside, with a rating of 4.9 based on 97 votes.

Montreal — Best for those looking for a taste of European culture

Population: 1,798,853

City area: 364.74 km² (140.82 sq mi)

Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5)

Average internet speed: 133.23 Mbps (median download speed), 44.43 Mbps (median upload speed)

Average cost of living: Can$1,426.2 (~$1,014.06) per month for a single person (without rent); Can$5,276.4 (~$3,751.65) per month for a family of 4 (without rent)

Average cost of rent: Can$1,684.25  (~$1,197.45) per month for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center

Biggest advantage: Vibrant nightlife

Biggest drawback: Potential language barrier

In Montreal, culture is king. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, countless cultural events throughout the whole year,  as well as festivals such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival or the Just For Laughs Comedy Festival.

Montreal is often associated with fun due to its thriving music scene, indie venues, sports bars, supper clubs, and similar places. The city is also a popular destination for EDM lovers, with îLESONIQ being one of the city’s most popular festivals.

Getting around Montreal is best done on foot and by cycling in the summer. The reliable subway is also a good and affordable option, especially during the cold winter months.

Apart from culture, the city is great for outdoor activities and, similarly to Winnipeg, it also has harsh winters (though Montreal’s are slightly milder).

The city offers plenty of options for food and dining out. The prices range from dirt cheap to completely extravagant. Like most popular Canadian cities, Montreal is full of ethnic restaurants, which offer foods from all across the world. 

If you plan to visit various different restaurants in Montreal, do not miss the opportunity to Montreal’s signature dish — Poutine.

Rent in the city is fairly expensive, but it is still nowhere near the extreme prices of Toronto or Vancouver.

One of the biggest questions about Montreal is whether you need to speak French to live and work there. The answer is — it depends. 

It’s really easy to experience culture shock if you don’t speak French, and it’s generally recommended to learn at least a few basic French phrases if you’re going to spend some time in Montreal.

Where to work in Montreal

Among all the different co-working space options in Montreal,  ECTO coworking cooperative is the best one according to Google reviews, with a score of 4.8 stars from 85 reviews.

Ottawa — Best for nomads who enjoy outdoor activities

Population: 1,070,889

City area: 2,788.2 km² (1,076.53 sq mi)

Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5)

Average internet speed: 220.83 Mbps (median download speed), 46.80 Mbps (median upload speed)

Average cost of living: Can$1,524.9 (~$1,078.26) per month for a single person (without rent); Can$5,468.5 (~$3,866.34) per month for a family of 4 (without rent)

Average cost of rent: Can$2,006.72 (~$1,418.96) per month for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center

Biggest advantage: One of the most family-friendly cities

Biggest drawback: Frequently deemed “the most boring city” in Canada

Canada’s capital is becoming increasingly popular among workers in the tech sector, which is also the sector that most digital nomads work in. So, if you opt to go there, you’ll have plenty of like-minded professionals to mingle with. 

What’s more, many large companies (as well as startups) are opening up offices in Ottawa. For this reason, many professionals looking for stable careers in this sector are migrating to Ottawa specifically.

As far as the cost of living goes, Ottawa is somewhere in the middle between the most expensive cities like Toronto and the more affordable ones like Winnipeg.

Ottawa is a cultural hub that features a wide array of museums, galleries, and performance venues. Most notable cultural attractions include the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of Nature, and the National Arts Center.

It has 4,300 hectares of parkland at over 1,300 sites, and it’s frequently featured on “Greenest North American cities” lists. This makes Ottawa great for outdoor activities in the summer as well as winter.

If you like to get away from the city in the winter and go on a short skiing trip, Ottawa offers options that are just a 30-minute drive away, like Sommet Edelweiss.

Similar to most other major Canadian cities, Ottawa is also home to various different cultures, which is reflected in the festivals, cuisine, and all of the different people you will encounter during your stay here.

Like Toronto, Ottawa is also a bilingual city.

For most digital nomads, not knowing French won’t pose a problem — although we still recommend you learn at least a few phrases. However, if you’re looking for a chance to relocate to this city permanently in the future, learning French is considered a necessity for some jobs. 

Where to work in Ottawa

Ottawa offers a wide range of co-working spaces, but the one that stands out the most according to Google Reviews is MBO Coworking with 5.0 stars based on 132 reviews.  

Tips for digital nomads in Canada

To make the most out of your digital nomad journey to Canada and to navigate life in this beautiful country more easily, we have prepared a few tips for you!

Tip #1: Explore Canada’s diverse nature

One of the best things you can do in Canada is organize trips or look for tours to explore its vast nature and diverse landscapes such as lakes, mountains, national parks, and bays.

So many natural wonders are just waiting to be discovered in Canada, and are really the most attractive thing this country has to offer. 

Canada makes up for 1/10 of the world’s forests — its surface area is 9.985 million km² (3.8 million sq mi) and 40% of it is covered in forests. It’s also the country with the most lakes in the world, and the 4th country in the world with the most islands.

It’s even home to over 60% of the world’s polar bears.

With this many different terrains, landscapes, and sights to offer, Canada is definitely among the most geographically beautiful countries on the planet.

We highly suggest picking the warmest months of the year to visit Canada, as you can take advantage of visiting even the northern, more remote parts of the country.

Tip #2: Research your destination carefully before making the choice

It is highly advisable to thoroughly research the places that interest you before making any rash decisions and pick your digital nomad HQ based on nothing but a gut feeling.

Take your time to choose the perfect place for you and make sure to explore all the relevant laws of the province you are planning to make your home base.

In certain regards, different Canadian provinces may even feel like completely different countries. After all, Canada spans across 6 time zones and it has 10 provinces and 3 territories with differing laws!

Aside from the laws, also check how reliable transportation is, and consider each city as its own little world that needs to be explored and thoroughly researched.

Tip #3: Engage with local communities and try to make friends

Meeting local people is one of the best ways to experience the vibe of a country. After all, positive interaction with others is often what we remember most fondly from our trips.

When you’re not traveling, try to organize your free time to engage with local communities — go to a local gym, become a member of a hiking club, or enroll in courses like cooking or arts, D&D groups, etc.

You can also pick a city generally known for having friendlier people. A common notion in Canada is that people from maritime provinces are generally more approachable and friendlier.

However, there are no set rules about this. With a bit of effort and some luck, you may form friendships that could last a lifetime anywhere in Canada. 

Further reading for digital nomads in Canada

Here are some additional useful sources we recommend you check before you get to Canada:

• A realtor-run website for finding accommodation — realtor.ca, 
• Tripadvisor’s Canada tour guide,
• Tours By Locals — a great website for booking tours to explore Canada in an authentic way,
• Enterprise — a car rental company with locations in most major cities in Canada, and
• The Canadian Press — one of the biggest news outlets in Canada.

Work remotely from anywhere in Canada with Pumble

Working abroad while traveling is a challenging feat as it is, but staying in touch with your teams at all times is almost impossible. 

Well, it would be without Pumble.

Pumble is a team communication app designed to act as your digital HQ and communication hub. No matter what type of team you have, Pumble will meet all of your needs.

It offers you the ability to do your work with as much dedication and productivity as if you were working on-site in your home country, with features like:

• Direct messaging — for 1-on-1 conversations with your team members,
• Channels – for addressing multiple members at once, 
• Guest access – for including temporary external collaborators in your team,
• File sharing — for seamless collaboration and keeping important documents in one place, and
• Custom notifications — for removing unnecessary distractions when focus is required. 

As an administrator, you have even more features at your disposal, such as:

• Setting up a video meet recording – to revisit your significant meetings, and
• Assigning permissions – to choose who can send messages, invite others to your space, and more.

Whether you choose to work from a cottage up in the snowy mountains or a summer lake house in the summer, Pumble will help you keep your productivity at 100%!

Step into the future of workplace communication and collaboration — try Pumble for free today!

Canada digital nomad visa guide disclaimer

We hope this Canada digital nomad visa guide has been helpful and that you enjoyed reading it. Throughout the guide, we have given you various links that might lead you to new interesting data or simply to articles that will expand your knowledge on various Canada-related topics.

Please bear in mind that our article was written in Q4 of 2024, so any changes that are made in the Canada Digital Nomad Visa procedures or laws after that time have not been included. 

Before you start the application process, we advise you to consult with certified representatives, lawyers, and institutions that can provide you with all the information needed. 

Pumble is not responsible for any negative responses, losses, or risks incurred, should this guide be used without further guidance from legal and other official advisors.

References:

• CIA — The World Factbook. November 27th, 2024. Explore All Countries — Canada. Retrieved November 2024, from https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/canada/
• Energy Hub. September 3rd, 2024. Electricity Prices in Canada 2023. Retrieved November 2024, from https://www.energyhub.org/electricity-prices/
• Equaldex. (n.d.) LGBT Rights in Canada. Retrieved November 2024, from https://www.equaldex.com/region/canada
• Freedom House. (n.d.) Freedom in the World 2024 — Canada. Retrieved November 2024, from https://freedomhouse.org/country/canada/freedom-world/2024
• Government of Canada. September 16th, 2024. Entry requirements by country or territory. Retrieved November 2024, from https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/entry-requirements-country.html
• Holiday Weather. (n.d.). Winnipeg, Canada Weather Averages. Retrieved November 2024, from https://www.holiday-weather.com/winnipeg/averages/
• Nomads. (n.d.) The 2024 State of Digital Nomads. Retrieved November 2024, from https://nomads.com/digital-nomad-statistics
• Numbeo. (n.d.). Cost of Living in Canada. Retrieved November 2024, from https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Canada
• Speedtest.net. (n.d.) Speedtest Global Index – Canada Median Country Speeds. Retrieved November 2024, from https://www.speedtest.net/global-index/canada
• SPS Global. February 22nd, 2024. Canada’s rent prices increased by 10% in January 2024!. Retrieved November 2024, from https://www.spscanada.com/blog/canadas-rent-prices-increased-by-10-in-january-2024/
• World Population Review. (n.d.) Most Educated Countries 2024. Retrieved November 2024, from https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/most-educated-countries