Vancouver, Canada

Visa Requirements

• Tourist Visa
  Citizens from over 50 countries can enter Canada visa-free for tourism purposes for up to 6 months. Travelers will need to apply for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) if arriving by air.
• Visa on Arrival (VOA)
  Canada does not offer a VOA for most nationalities, but some travelers may be eligible for a visitor visa on arrival if they meet the conditions.
• Digital Nomad Visa
  While Canada doesn’t offer a specific digital nomad visa, remote workers can apply for a Visitor Visa to stay in Canada for up to 6 months, with an option to extend their stay. As of now, the International Mobility Program (IMP) also allows individuals to work remotely from Canada under certain conditions, but you cannot work for a Canadian employer under this visa.

For visa information, visit the Government of Canada’s Immigration and Citizenship.

Cost of Living

• Accommodation
  Vancouver is known for its high real estate prices, but the cost of living is balanced by high salaries.
  • Budget: Hostels or shared accommodation range from $20 – $45 per night.
  • Mid-range: Private rooms or 1-bedroom apartments range from $70 – $105 per night.
  • Luxury: Upscale hotels or high-end rentals in premium areas like Yaletown or West End range from $140 – $350 per night.
• Food
  Vancouver is a foodie’s paradise, with options ranging from cheap eats to fine dining.
  • Street food: Meals at casual spots or food trucks cost between $8 – $11.
  • Mid-range restaurants: A three-course meal for two will cost around $28 – $55.
  • Fine dining: High-end restaurants may charge $70 – $140 per person.
• Transportation
  Vancouver has an excellent public transit system, including buses, SkyTrain, and ferries.
  • Public transport: A one-zone fare costs $2, while monthly passes are around $70.
  • Taxi fares: Starting fare is $2.50, with an additional $1.50 per km.

Healthcare
Healthcare in Canada is publicly funded through the Canadian Health Act. Residents and expats may be required to register for provincial healthcare, which covers most essential services. However, private healthcare or travel insurance is recommended for visitors.

Climate & Weather

• Summer (June to August): Mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (77°F). This is the best time to explore Vancouver’s outdoor activities like hiking, beach visits, and biking.
• Winter (December to February): Cold and wet, with temperatures averaging around 2°C to 8°C (35°F – 46°F). Snowfall is common in the mountains, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.
• Rainy Season (October to March): Vancouver experiences a lot of rainfall during the winter months, with November being the wettest month. Prepare for cloudy and dreary days if you’re visiting during this time.

Landscape

Vancouver offers a wide array of natural landscapes within close proximity. The Pacific Ocean provides opportunities for boating, whale watching, and beach activities, while the Caucasus Mountains offer ample space for hiking, skiing, and mountaineering. The city is home to Stanley Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America, as well as Grouse Mountain and Vancouver Island, where nature lovers can explore lush forests, beautiful beaches, and scenic trails.

Things to Do

• Heritage Sites
  • Gastown: A historical neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, the iconic Steam Clock, and old-fashioned pubs.
  • Museum of Anthropology: Learn about indigenous cultures at this world-renowned museum on the University of British Columbia campus.
  • Capilano Suspension Bridge: Explore a stunning suspension bridge over the Capilano River surrounded by old-growth forest.
• Adventure Activities
  • Hiking: There are numerous trails within the city, including Lynn Canyon, Grouse Grind, and Cypress Mountain.
  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Head up to Whistler or Cypress Mountain for world-class winter sports.
  • Cycling: Vancouver has an extensive network of bike lanes and trails, including the Seawall
• Nightlife
  Vancouver has a vibrant nightlife scene, especially in areas like Granville Street and Yaletown, with trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues.
• Wellness Retreats
  Several wellness retreats and spas are located around Vancouver, offering massages, yoga, and wellness treatments.
• Shopping
  • Robson Street: Vancouver’s shopping district, offering high-end brands and boutiques.
  • Granville Island: A popular spot for unique artisan goods, food markets, and local craft shops.

Lifestyle

Vancouver has a laid-back lifestyle, with an emphasis on outdoor activities, health, and sustainability. The city offers excellent public transport and a variety of dining and entertainment options. Residents tend to be active, embracing the nearby nature for activities like cycling, swimming, and hiking.

Vancouver is an incredibly multicultural city, with large communities from China, India, Japan, and the Philippines. Expats will find it easy to integrate due to the city’s inclusive and welcoming nature. English is widely spoken, and there are many events, festivals, and social meetups to bring people together.

Other Important Locations in Canada

• Toronto: The largest city in Canada, known for its financial district and iconic landmarks like the CN Tower.
• Montreal: Known for its French-speaking population, arts scene, and festival culture.
• Quebec City: A beautiful, historical city known for its French influence and old-world charm.

Rental Accommodations

• Budget: Hostels or shared apartments cost between $28 – $50 per night.
• Mid-range: Private rooms or 1-bedroom apartments range from $100 – 180 per night.
• Luxury: High-end hotels or luxury apartments cost between $208 – $345 per night.

Co-Working Facilities and Costs

Vancouver has numerous co-working spaces catering to startups, freelancers, and digital nomads. Spaces like The Profile and WeWork offer comfortable work environments with access to business amenities. Membership costs typically range from $105 – $276 per month, depending on the space and the services offered.

Connectivity

• WiFi: Vancouver has excellent WiFi coverage, with free public WiFi in libraries, parks, and public transport areas. Hotels and coworking spaces provide high-speed internet.
• 
  SIM: Telus, Rogers, and Bell offer prepaid SIM cards with reliable coverage and various data options. These are easily available at kiosks and retail stores.

Volunteering Opportunities

Vancouver has a wide range of volunteering opportunities, including in areas like environmental conservation, youth programs, and homelessness support. Organizations like Volunteer Vancouver and UBC Volunteer Services are great places to find local opportunities.

Local Employment Options

• Tech industry roles in IT, AI, or software.
• Opportunities in the film and entertainment industry.
• Teaching or research positions at local institutions.

Real Estate Investment Options

Vancouver’s real estate market is one of the most expensive in Canada, but it remains attractive to investors due to its global appeal. Opportunities exist in residential, commercial, and tourism properties, particularly in Downtown, Kitsilano, and Yaletown.

Start-Up Ecosystem

Vancouver has a thriving start-up ecosystem, with a focus on tech and green innovation. It has established a reputation as a hub for clean tech, digital media, and life sciences.

Business Setup Process for Expats

1. Choose a Business Structure: The most common options are Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, and Corporation.
2. Register Your Business: Register online with BC Services and choose your business name.
3. Obtain a Business Number (BN): Required for tax and other business dealings.
4. Open a Business Bank Account: Use a Canadian bank to separate your personal and business finances.
5. Register for GST/HST: If your business revenue exceeds CAD 30,000 (~$21k), you must register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST).
6. Comply with Employment Laws: Ensure compliance with Canada’s employment standards, including payroll taxes and benefits.

Business Opportunities in Vancouver

• Tech: The tech industry is booming, with opportunities in software development, AI, fintech, and green technology.
• Film and Media: Vancouver is a global hub for the film and entertainment industries, with opportunities in production, set design, and editing.
• Tourism: With its natural beauty, tourism-related businesses like hotels, tour guides, and adventure sports are in high demand.
• Real Estate: Despite high prices, the real estate sector remains an attractive investment, particularly in commercial properties and luxury condos.
• Health and Wellness: Vancouver’s emphasis on wellness creates opportunities in fitness studios, holistic medicine, and health products.