Canada's New Digital Nomad Visa: What You Need to Know

Dreaming of living and working in a country as beautiful as Canada? The brand-new visa program for digital nomads might just be the answer to your aspirations! Canada, an exceptional destination for remote workers, will soon provide new opportunities for those who want to explore stunning locations while continuing their online careers.

With this new visa, Canada now joins the growing list of countries that have established a visa program specifically designed for remote workers, such as Australia, Barbados, Estonia, Georgia, Germany, Italy, Norway, and Portugal.

Here's all the information you need about the new program for remote workers in Canada.

How Does the Digital Nomad Visa in Canada Work?

The digital nomad visa will allow those working for an employer outside of Canada to settle in Canada for a period of up to six months. While Canada is focusing more on tech workers, anyone engaged in remote work can apply.

Currently, there is no minimum salary requirement, unlike some countries like Iceland, which requires a monthly income of at least $8,000 for digital nomads to apply.

Furthermore, if digital nomads secure employment with a Canadian employer during their stay in the country, they can also apply for a temporary work permit and stay an additional three years. After that, it's possible to apply for citizenship (the naturalization rule being that you've resided in the country for 1,095 days over a five-year period).

What are the requirements for obtaining the Digital Nomad Visa in Canada?

If you wish to apply for the remote worker visa in Canada, you'll need to submit an application with proof of employment, a photo, and your fingerprints. You may also be required to have an interview with an immigration officer.

Passport

Once approved, you'll need to send your passport to the Canadian government, which will insert the visa and return it to you. Visa holders are responsible for finding their own accommodation and covering their expenses to travel to Canada.

Police certificate

To be eligible for the visa, you must meet security requirements and obtain a police certificate. This certificate should indicate that you have a clean criminal record.

Health and travel insurance

For the digital nomad visa in Canada, you'll need to meet medical requirements. This means you must undergo and pass a comprehensive medical examination.

It's highly recommended to obtain travel insurance before heading to Canada. Accidents and illnesses can happen at any time, and having travel insurance will provide peace of mind in case of unexpected health issues during your stay. This insurance will cover medical expenses, emergency care, and other health-related costs, saving you from significant out-of-pocket expenses in case of a medical incident.

Looking for travel insurance for your stay in Canada? Contact a soNomad agent for your digital nomad travel insurance in Canada.

How to apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Canada?

According to a press release, the Department of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada will collaborate with public and private partners over the next few months to determine if additional policies to attract digital nomads to Canada would be desirable.

For now, interested individuals should monitor the Government of Canada's website for up-to-date information. The government has stated that it hopes to officially launch the program (and release applications) by the end of 2023.

The best cities for digital nomads in Canada

By choosing Canada as your next work and life destination, you'll have a multitude of cities to consider. Here are some of the best cities in the country that offer an ideal environment for remote workers:

• Vancouver: Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the coastal mountains, Vancouver boasts spectacular landscapes, exceptional quality of life, a vibrant cultural scene, and ample networking opportunities for tech professionals and creatives.
• Whistler: This internationally renowned mountain resort is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. If you're passionate about winter sports or mountain hiking, Whistler is an ideal place to combine work and adventure.
• Montreal: North America's largest French-speaking city is known for its dynamic art scene, delicious cuisine, and European atmosphere. Montreal is also a thriving tech hub with numerous opportunities for professionals.
• Toronto: As Canada's largest city, Toronto is a major financial and cultural centre. The city offers a plethora of unique neighbourhoods, each with its own charm, allowing digital nomads to choose the vibe that suits them best.
• Banff: If you dream of working surrounded by the majestic Canadian Rockies, Banff is the place to be. This small town provides easy access to national parks, hiking trails, and breathtaking nature.
• Victoria: The Capital of British Columbia, situated on Vancouver Island, offers a high quality of life, fascinating history, and access to beautiful gardens and parks.

These cities not only offer breathtaking landscapes but also provide infrastructure tailored to digital nomads, including coworking spaces, high-speed internet access, and a rich cultural scene. The choice of city will depend on your personal preferences regarding climate, culture, professional opportunities, and leisure activities.

No matter which destination you choose in Canada, you'll discover a unique blend of nature, technology, and culture, creating the perfect environment for a digital nomad's life.

Travel coast to coast while working remotely!

The new digital nomad visa in Canada presents an exciting opportunity for those who want to live and work in Canada while enjoying stunning landscapes. It's crucial to stay informed about updates and specific requirements for obtaining this visa.

So, whether you're a tech professional or working remotely in another field, Canada is getting ready to welcome you for an unforgettable experience. And don't forget to contact a soNomad agent for your digital nomad travel insurance in Canada.