@@Maxშემიწყალე Imagine for a moment ALL OF CANADIANS leaving.. :) Not everyone has that option, sadly. And enough of them still support the current system so those who can not leave but must stay - can not change the system. This is why many parished during great conflicts.. The current situation in Ukraine is a prime example. People are now effectively prisoners of the state unable to leave and to live.
Being kind and adapting to the newly adopted culture and making local friends, cannot be overstated. Regardless of which country you move to. I’m glad you mentioned that Alina!
Every crash/collapse brings with it an equivalent market chance if you are early informed and equipped, I've seen folks amass up to $1m amid economy crisis, and even pull it off easily in favorable conditions. Unequivocally, the collapse is getting somebody somewhere rich.
I do not disagree, there are strategies that could be put in place for solid gains regardless of economy or market condition, but such execution are usually carried out by investment experts with experience since the 08' crash.
The issue is people have the "I want to do it myself mentality" but not equipped enough for a crash, hence get burnt. Ideally, advisors are reps for investing jobs, and at first-hand encounter, my portfolio has yielded over 300% since 2020 just after the pandemic to date.
i'm blown away! mind sharing more info please? i am a young adult living in Miami where i've encountered several millionaires, and my goal is to become one as well.
NICOLE ANASTASIA PLUMLEE' is the licensed fiduciary I use. Just research the name. You’d find necessary details to work with a correspondence to set up an appointment.
We left Ottawa in 2020 and settled in southern Europe and we have mostly good things to say about our choice. The climate is amazing and the food and people are real. No more fake smiles and asocial neighbors and colleagues. We have truly friendly neighbors who we can count on for pretty much anything and kids have great friends. And all this in just over 4 years.
@@tgoodson2 Way, way better...Any neighbor that doesn't beat on his wife and smokes dope on the porch almost every day is better. He even ran after my friend's kids with a truck because they were throwing football on his lawn...true story.
@@pero33403 You had a bad neighbour. You didn't have to move to another country (although that is your own choice) to get better ones. I live in rural Ottawa in a great neighbourhood. Have lived here over 40 years.
If you are seriously considering something, do it.. You rarely regret things you do, but things you don't do.. I lived abroad for a few years, and even though I moved back to my country, the experiences I got will stay with me forever...
Absolutely, my thoughts exactly :) as long as you are aware of the main consequences and plan for them, it's a very exciting opportunity that will enrich your life.
@@RuthBrown-tm2gt Not sure what these assets are. Her organizational abilties? Her video production skills? Like many Canadians, she's probably overpaid in taxation. Right now, my limited information is that her passport and her mental ability are her main assets. She needs to find how to guard those.
@MrZnarffy you are so right. We regret the things we don't do. I am 70 years old. I don't regret the things I have done and the mistakes I had learnt from my past but I regret the opportunities I should have taken when I was younger. So, carpet diem...live for the day and never regret for that chance may never again pass your way!
@@RuthBrown-tm2gt Does Rick Steves? Does Lonely Planet? Now, admittedly, I am in the segment of society that won't get on a plane to practically anywhere. But do her travel vlogs get views? TH-cam cares about views. I'd say that in Google's eyes, she is. And then my next question is why are skeptics even commenting? What is the concrete value of the gajillion dollar movie industry? Is that "concrete value"? I don't put much value on it. "Too much" in the tax area is highly controversial. Why do corporations claim phony locations to escape taxes?
they have an _option_ to be integrated in adopted country, it's not mandatory when you have your own business and can do things through the internet. almost each country has neighborhood for the wealthy expats, even local language is not mandatory, b/c most staff in stores and barbershops speaks English in there.
@@evgeniy9744 Language learning has nothing to do with owning a business, neither is it based on wealth. Usually functional use of a language is required during the citizenship phase. In Portugal you have to pass an written and oral exam.
@@steelcom5976 sure, you are right! and it means if you do not have plans to obtain local citizenship and you do not need a local job and you have enough money - there is no strong necessity to learn language. Sometimes you even could have a local job in IT or finances without local language knowledge. many people are living abroad and do not speak local language for a years.
@@evgeniy9744 I agree with you BUT when you meet someone who likes and helps you and wishes to be your friend, it would be surprising to choose never to build your network of friends as an expat.
Left 6 years ago and don’t regret it at all. My career has taken off in the US, my income has more than doubled and my family enjoys a better quality of life. Every trip back reaffirms my decision to leave. If you regret it, you can always return.
I wish I left 5 years ago. Toronto is a shithole. How hard was it for you to get a US job, did u need a TN visa? Did the employer balk at the paperwork?
@@ericyuan9718 You better hurry up before Trump become the next president again and build a great big beautiful Wall between US and Canada to keep all the Canadian migrant/geese OUT! I think Canada is just about as bad as Central/South America according to Alina!!
@@ericyuan9718any Canadian that lives in Toronto doesn’t know the best parts of Canada. Toronto is the worst place in Canada to live 🤷♂️ It’s like Americans choosing to live in Manhattan, why would they do that to themselves? You prefer the higher expenses and parking not being free I guess 😂 and you must love traffic jams too
@@FranklyTheyCallMeFrankie Unfortunately I'm an office worker and the job market in the rest of Canada simply doesn't hold a candle to Toronto. Let's say i find a data analyst job in Calgary? If I get laid off, chances are, I'm leaving Calgary as my savings would likely run out before i get another job.
You are making THE best decision leaving Canada and becoming a non-Canadian resident. With everything thats happening here in Canada, specifically after COVID, I believe Canada has lost its reputation around the world, considering the way they have treated their own people during COVID, inflation, immigration, safety and security, increase in taxes and overall decrease in living standards and increase in poverty. This is not the Canada that I was raised and knew. So, if I get the opportunity to leave, I would do it before it gets worse. Dont listen to what people say, do what you think is right in your heard.
Taxes haven't gone up in Canada. Pretty much the same for the last 40 years, certainly not noticeable. I actually pay less now than I did 10 years ago. We are one of the safest countries in the world.
Utter nonsense. Not so long ago Canada forged an important trade deal with the EU under J Trudeau which required the unanimous vote of all 27 countries in that Union, a remarkable achievement. So you really have no clue what you're talking about.
@@jonnysaint5261 Are you saying capital gain taxes never changed in the last 40 years? Luxury taxes existed in the last 40 years? Carbon taxes existed in the last 40 years? Airport taxes always stayed the same in the last 40 years? Even the income taxes have gone up. I love this country, but people need to wake up and be aware of whats happening. Your rights are being taken away little by little. We used to be one of the safest countries in the world, do you know what the crime rate is in Canada? do you even remember having a car theft in Canada? have a random shoot out or stabbing while walking on the street? We are not the safest country anymore. Don't be too oblivious to your surroundings, I think its time to wake up.
@@AlinaMcleodscared me a bit there, because I thought I missed the "working" part in my research. I'm not going to work in my final (20th) year in Canada before moving out.
The problem comes with taxes. If the target country has a tax agreement simply continue to file your Canadian taxes. If not, the Gov't might withhold OAS/CPP. If there is no tax agreement you might end up being double-taxed (i.e. both countries)
Depends on your personal experiences. I was in the US for 2+ years and had 2 cars stolen and my apartment mailbox ripped up from time to time. And figures are showing crime is even worse now.
It's funny how life turns out. In the 1970's my employer, Rockwell International, wanted me to move from the UK to the US. I turned the offer down for family reasons. Later I visited the Canadian consulate to enquire about emigration but experienced a very unpleasant consulate official so it went nowhere. I'm grateful to him for that in hindsight given the political situation in Canada under Castreau. So now I'm in France for the past 20 years and very happy with the lifestyle, climate, my friends and neighbours.
There is pros and cons to every country. Be happy in France. Not sure what the politics in Canada has to do with anything though. I still have a home, good job, family and friends, etc.
With all the problems in Canada some of which include the high cost of living, long waits for healthcare services in many cases, lousy weather, very high taxable income rates, sub-par social services for the amount of taxes paid, lack of affordable housing, homeless crisis, drug crisis, relatively high debt levels for Canadians and 'black & white' thinking in Canada which you mentioned in one of your previous videos it's no wonder many Canadians have chosen to leave Canada. My wife and I now live in southern Turkey and are VERY happy with our lifestyle here. No more Canadian mortgage, bad weather, potentially long line ups for healthcare services in Canada, etc. Moreover, we are relatively close to Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, etc, which makes traveling easier and more convenient. Leaving Canada was the best choice we ever made.
My wife and I left Canada in 2005 and it was the best decision that we ever made. We went from quite a few years of living paycheck to paycheck, to being financially stable within the first few months.
@@steelcom5976 I don't mind telling. We are currently on the Maryland side of the Baltimore-Washington metro. Went from Ottawa to Michigan to begin with.
@@rich7447 Thanks. I lived in New Haven for 2+ years and couldn't wait to excape back to normalcy after I had 2 cars stolen and my apartment mailbox ripped open periodically.
@@steelcom5976 I worked in Groton when we lived in Michigan. Flew out of New Haven once and decided to stick with Providence from that point onward even if it meant a worse flight.
I pay 20k less taxes and am in a country with better health insurance and health care. I regreted nothing except for not being able to contribute to a TFSA - but then I realized capital gains aren't even taxed in investment accounts in Hong Kong - so now I literally regret nothing.
I’ve lived in Hong Kong most of my life but after the enforcement of local National Security Law in June 30, 2020, I started to sell my Hong Kong properties and my cars. My son(he was born in Toronto)moved back to Vancouver around two years ago, I bought a pre-sale townhouse in Vancouver BC three years ago under his name. I will move there with my wife shortly but I will stay there only in summer and autumn, not more than 182 days in a year as I don’t want to be a tax resident in Canada because the capital gain tax since June 24 is 66.7% for those who earn more than CAD$250,000 per year. Therefore, I will be staying in different cities like Okinawa, Penang, Phu Quoc, Chiang Mai….etc. during winter months. My wife likes Eastern Europe too. I always like someone’s saying, “Stay Where You Are Treated Best” !
Tip from a Canadian ..live in British Columbia ..in the mountains ..skip living in citys , there is no special lifestyle going on in any city ..mountain town with lots of outdoor lifestyle going on is fantastic
She is a travel vlogger and her passion is exploring countries. Alina needs to be near an airport hub! Not in the middle of nowhere. Canada wasn't attractive for that in the first place. How many countries do you have within a radius of 5 hours?
have lived in BC for 12 years, lots of great spots Kootenays, sunshine coast, etc. problem is little to no jobs in the small towns, and lack of healthcare need to go to Kelowna or Vancouver for a doctor & wait for years to get help. can be quite isolating too
Well that advice didn't accomplish anything other than reveal your lack of knowledge on various topics , especially regarding Alina's needs. ie: it costs as much to fly from Fort Nelson or other ' bush' towns to an International Airport as it does to fly from that Canadian International Airport to most places abroad.
common, I went back to Prince George recently after being away for a few decades.. it's got more East Indians then New Deli does. Not a chance i would move to BC.
Very informative video - you've raised a lot of important points and really done your homework. I'm currently in the process of becoming a resident of an EU country / non-resident of Canada, so I relate to everything you mentioned. Best of luck with your big move!
EU is a really bad choice, it's Canada light, all western european countries are in decline since 911. The welfare states are being destroyed, just like in Canada, inc. loss of individual free and unrestricted mass migration. The EU is boss over European countries and every single country carries out their agendas, which also is directed by WEF and UN. Better to move to more sovereign countries in south america or south east asia. Eastern europe is just a matter of time, lagging ~10 years behind and is at the front of the upcoming BRICS and escalation of war (think compulsory drafting and a war economy), is that worth it for you to then emigrate again? People usually only emigrate once in their life if they do, it just cost a lot of time, energy and money to finally settle in and especially if you get kids, it's pretty much a no by that time. And I know, because im from north west europe and many people with money and those favoring freedom have left or are in the process of leaving. The housing crises here in NL is also insane, it's all on purpose and maybe-most likely this entire western world emigrating is part of a bigger plan to have in 1000 years a universal slave race.
It is clear from your statements that you have already settled on the country you're moving to. This is the show I am waiting for! I am very curious about that Eastern European country and your reasons for it! Good job!
@@FreedomPlaya It is fun. I know where I WISH she'd go because I've spent 2 weeks there.But I did NO research. She's researched this to death. If that research says "Romania" hey, follow the facts. Could be just too good for the taxes. I know much about living costs, but I was a tourist. Taxes never mattered.
I left Canada in 1997 and now living in Arizona! That was the best move I have ever made. I go back to Montreal to see my family but I would not go back to live there! I just applied for my AOS and should get a part of it since the USA has the agreement! good luck to you and never regret anything !!! Cuenca Ecuador is another place in South America where there are a lot of Expats
People are so hostile to each other here. I find the friendliness is on a surface level and people will talk shit behind your back. I have been living here for 10 years now and can’t wait to get the fuck out next year
@@klnrklnr4433 not sure if it is me. I experienced this at work where my coworkers shit-talking about our clients, our managers or even our company. The most interesting part is when they talk shit about other colleagues they don't like and you still see them laughing and chatting around them. Where I was originally from, if we don't like someone, we tend to keep a distance but here is very confusing.
Going by my personal experience, the checking account thing is accurate. I maintained a checking account in a Canadian bank throughout nearly 2 decades of non-residency and there was never a problem or even a question after I returned.
Cut all ties and do a clean break...I studied tax and CRA uses visits and maintained bank balances as tests for residency and thus could try and tax you
@@KayakerDude-cw1kk Nice tautology, but very bad advice. If you cut ties during the typical 5 year resident period before citizenship you literally are not a citizen of any country and would have no passport.
@@jiminhart Depending on where you ended up there could be some tax issues. Canada has tax treaties with almost 100 countries so problems shouldn't arise in those. However some countries like Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland and Australia are only at the negotiation stage and Belgium is not yet in force.
Canada doesn't tax foreign income. The last Canadian income tax return that I files was for the 2005 tax year (I was resident in Canada for part of that year).
It’s nobody’s business where you want to live. I’m very lucky like you in visiting many foreign countries and appreciating different cultures. There is so much many countries can offer oneself. I think I saved most of your travels, so I can experience or revisit those places. Best wishes to you on finding a new residence (long-term or temporary).
No! you will not! We are Canadian non-residet in republic of Georgia. 1% small business tax, safety, no homelesness, no drug adects, got a large house CASH, small properyi tax or no property tax based on your income, amazing climate etc.
Thank you for another great video.. I am also working on the options to move out of Canada and your videos are of great help.. Keep up the good work and hope your journey to resettle somewhere better goes smooth.
I lived in Poland for several months, and I loved it!! I'm also extremely lucky as I have three passports/citizenships, including European. I've often considered returning to Eastern Europe because I loved it so much there, and the cost of living is significantly cheaper than in Canada. I've also frequently, throughout my life, moved back and forth between the UK and Canada, so it's always an option to move back should you wish - these days things are a lot easier than when our parents immigrated. The bottom line is that I've been there and done that, and I wish you all the best! You've clearly done your homework and brought up aspects of emigration that I hadn't considered despite having moved around so much. Great job, and you've given me even more to consider as I decide where to "retire".
@@ericyuan9718 My friends who live in Poland don't really have a problem with the Ukrainian refugees, and I think the reasoning is threefold. First, before the war there were already a lot of Ukrainians in Poland - I met many of them who drove Ubers and Taxis. They are hardworking people and generally quite humble. Second, Ukrainians and Poles are culturally and linguistically similar, so integration is easier. They also have similar histories, which brings me to the final point. Poles are very conscious of the threat of a return to the USSR, and they DO NOT want to go there again. I think many of them see the Ukrainians fleeing the war in a kind of "there but for the grace of God go I" kind of thing. They hope and pray that the war ends in Ukraine and doesn't bleed into Poland. I have one friend who was volunteering at an aid station to welcome the refugees and was very proud of what Poland was doing.
@@ericyuan9718 The rent prices went up by one third right after the war began. more people were in public places (Canadian visa application center especially) and in public transport. Inflation affected prices, but it's more post-covid rather than war-related, b/c banks key rates skyrocketed throughout all OECD (but politics likes to blame ru as an inflation reason). Probably it was harder to find a manual labor job since many Ukranians came and filled in those vacant job positions. And waiting time of obtaining presidentship became longer. That's pretty much it. There is still some political tension between Poland and Russia that creates some potential risks, but overall Poland is the best place to live from the cost of living/quality of life standpoint, especially if you are able to earn money abroad/remotely. But better to live in a big city in there.
I once planned on moving to Australia from Montreal, Canada. I lived in Sydney for 5 months and mostly liked it. The nasty surprise was that everything was TWICE the price of that in Montfeal, but the incomes were not commensurate.
@@ColtonBlumhagen My #1 problem in Montreal consisted of very serious family issues. #2 was the long harsh winter. I had a house in the suburbs and car to maintain throughout all of the 4 seasons here . This #2 problem was far less serious than the first one. I chose there because it had a lot in common with Canada in terms of multiculturalism and being part of the Commonwealth, and also it has no winter. I saved up as much as I could. When I got there I was shocked to see how expensive it was. No one had told me about this, and I had not done enough of my own research about the cost of living there. Everything in Sydney was twice the price of everything in Montreal, but the salaries were not twice higher, and also the Canadian Dollar was very weak at that time, weaker than the Australian Dollar. I stayed there for the time I had planned. For the most part I liked it. Most people were friendly, the food and nightlife were good. I lived in a pleasant place. I could not afford it, though, so in the end I returned here. Now I live in a flat in Montreal and no longer have a car. I work from home via the Internet. I am close to everything, so I don't need a car, and I don't have to shovel snow, rake autumn leaves nor mow the summer lawn, nor winterize the house and car. My family problems no longer exist. Everything is better now than it was then.
@@ColtonBlumhagen Healthcare within Australian states and territories has a mix of government and private-sector funding. Even if healthcare is of a better quality in a given Aussie state or territory than any Canadian one: - so much of Mainland Australia is unbearably hot for much of the year, with the Outback taking up much of that Mainland portion - Tasmania is a bit more remote although the off-mainland territories are even more remote
Hello Alina! I am your frequent follower and I only wish you the best! With that said, I really like Canada and always will and I only wish Canada the best too! Cheers to you!
Hi Alina, It's so exciting to make a plan on moving to a different country isn't it!! I, Japanese brought my family to the US 24 years ago. We all are happy being here 😊 My guess on your new place is Albania. My wife guesses Croatia. Isn't that so nice to be able to go visit Italy, Greece or the neighboring gorgeous islands so easily!!? No matter where you live, you have a great life! God bless you!
You have been SO incredibly thorough and I respect and admire that. I know you will land on your feet wherever you choose to put down roots. Keep posting, I always appreciate and enjoy your content Alina.
Any major life decision can carry with it the possibility of regret. That's just the way life is. But it also works just as much the other way too. When you're old and infirm and no longer able to do the things you always wanted to do and wish you had done them when you had the chance, that's a whole other level of regret. Nobody when they're old, looks back on their life and regrets the stuff they didn't buy but a whole lot of people regret not doing the things they wish they'd done when they could have.
Things are not that complex. If a person has no ties to Canada like home ownership and family CRA will have no issues with non residency. On the last return there is a date that one left. If it's less than 183 days in Canada that tax year is a non residency. There a "departure tax" where assets like stocks have to be "sold" and capital gains tax paid if applicable. CPP stays as is, amount depends on whatever was contributed by the resident and can start at 62 or later. Flat 15% withholding tax for non residents. Same for private pension. OAS has nothing to do with work history but the number of years as a Canadian resident up to 40 years. So a 20 year resident gets half. GIS is a program for residents. RRSP can stay put or can be withdrawn at 25% flat tax. TFSA can also stay put or withdrawn but no new contributions for non residents. Driving licenses have nothing to do with Canada but rather with local rules that may or may not transfer to local ones. Has to do with agreements between countries. The worst case is to do it in the new place again.
Hello Alina, My wife and I left Canada ( Calgary) in 2020 and moved to Costa Rica. ( Potrero ) we have embraced the lifestyle of the country and have no regrets. From watching some of your videos, I think we would share many life philosophy’s and you clearly have an adventurous spirit. If you are still considering your options; perhaps visiting us at our home here in Costa Rica would be of interest to you. Food luck in your journey. best regards, Phil & Michelle
Re prices in Canada and Eastern Europe, I wouldn't generalize. In the last 5 years half of westerners moved to Eastern Europe, doubling the prices of real estate. The war in Ukraine also contributed. So Eastern Europe is in many cases more expensive than Canada. I came to Canada from Eastern Europe 30 years ago. My salary ws $100 per month and my rent was $20 per month. All prices were in cents, though. The esspresso in the most expensive hotel in town was 40 cents and beer was 80 cents. But meat, for example veal, was $4 for 1kg of tenderloin (!). Go figure. The rent in the same town is now $800 per month. This represents 40 times increase!! 4000% !!! Folks, don't kid yourself. I literally counted price after price in Canada Toronto and Eastern Europe. Discounts there, when there are discounts, are 10 to rarely 15%. In Toronto, in the period of 2019 to 2023 I regularly shopped in Loblaws at 50% discount, even luxurious things like bison or elk steaks! Fish, same things. And many other produce. Right now, this very moment, soy sauce is 4 times more expensive in eastern Europe than Toronto, for example.
I love your perspective as an immigrant to Canada, albeit a young girl, looking to emmigrate. You are very well spoken and have obviously done real research.
I saw the title of this video and came here to make a quick comment that residency, tax residency, nationality and citizenship are all different things - in countries like the UK and the US, even nationality and citizenship differ. Then at 1:45 or so I heard you explaining it to perfection 👌🏽 I’m an Indian Overseas Citizen (OCI) by descent, a South African citizen, an Australian citizen and an American green card holder/permanent resident _and_ a tax resident in the US. And I was not born in any of these countries. It constantly amazes me how people don’t realize that tax residency is a thing unto itself, or that being born somewhere doesn’t always mean that you are a citizen of that place. Or that nationality is not always the same as ethnicity or that it doesn’t always translate to citizenship. Like you said, it all depends…
As an immigration lawyer in Winnipeg, I love that you understand that each case is different. I hear almost every day, "XXX did this. I want you to help me do the same thing." OK! Let's see if you also qualify for that program.... Personally, I've lived in Europe, South America and Asia. Enjoy your time abroad!
I left Vancouver 10 years ago and have zero regrets about not living in Canada any longer. I know many other Canadians in exactly the same situation. Many friends have asked me why I prefer living in America. Many, many reasons, but I don't ever see myself moving back "home".
When you left Canada I assume you had to close all your bank accounts (since I understand they need a Canadian address for you). If so then you had to collapse your RRSP, right? Thank you for your reply - I a trying to figure this out for my own situation.
@@johnmorelli3775 RBC won't ask you to close your bank accounts. As far as the U.S., RBC, TD, BMO and CIBC all have U.S. branches/offer cross-border banking.
Lets just hope canada in 10 15 years bounce back On my side since 6 months i am living in south of france. Tax wise salary wise cost of living is the same as in canada more or less But at least i live by the beach! I can swim in sea. I dont have a freezing icy winter for 6 months. South france is very fun. Its not like our canadian cities who get very boring after a while I get very delicious bio food drink alcohol for cheap price. No fancy cheese at 20$ it cost 4$ here the same cheese😂 sea food olive oil milk product eggs fruits vegetable very cheap here I am planning on getting france passport since i am french canadian. It was best choice for me. I already know the language To me canada is in very down spiral decade. It makes no sense you waste away 10 20 years of your youth for so little in return. Youre getting scammed in this whole deal Maybe canada by 2035 or 2040 is gonna become back to its prime self. But it would take a genius miracle
These videos are really fun, as a guessing game. I can't wait to see the answer. I guessed Romania or Bangkok a while back, but since last week videos, I'll just say Romania now.
Yes Romani it is.. but both Poland and Romania are getting affected by the current war in Ukraine which with time might get worse... Romania Tax rate is very low and cost of living is not that bad if one belongs to economic middle class.
@@danh.8725 Cost of living in Romania and pretty much most of Eastern Europe country is dirt cheap compare to US/Canada/Western Europe! as a easy to understand example, A Latte in Romania/Czeh/Bulgaria/Poland will be around $1.50eu in coffee shop and a dine in Dinner around $12eu! compare to where you paying now! is not hard to compare
@@danh.8725Neither Romania, nor Poland are affected by the war in Ukraine. I mean, there are strategic risks, of course, but it didn't affect our economy, nor our standard of living.
A slavic speaker will not move to Romania. No way. The transition will be so much easier in a slavic speaking country. You would know more than 50% of the language from day 1.
Awesome video! We are Canadians, my husband also holds an Irish passport. Our plan is to move to Bulgaria as retirees. We have done our research throughly and are very excited about our decision. We are pretty sure you have chosen Bulgaria as well☺️
I think Canadians indeed need to vote by the feet( move out of the Canada ) to force the government correct its urgent mistakes . that's a best way to save Canada. a lot of countries are now doing that the same way.
Great sharing Alina! I wish you good luck. You will find a nice place where to live and enjoy beautiful days with your family. Thank you for sharing 🍀💕🪻
As a Canadian born and raised in Vancouver island, I appreciate hearing your story. While I support YOUR decision to leave Canada, I can't imagine that feeling in myself. Rather, I would only be able to temporarily leave Canada (for a year or two, or for a few seasons of a year). To give you some context so you know I have some leg to stand on when I tell you this, I have travelled to almost 60 countries on earth and lived in these countries: (Canada, Australia, Norway, Germany, Austria, Spain, Chile). There are only 5 countries I am yet to visit in Europe. I speak 3 languages and have spent my life connecting with cultures and people from all walks of life. I did my masters degree in Spain (International Business) and can still give you an honest description of the things I loved and disliked from every country I have been to. I now work as a financial planner in British Columbia, and I am so thankful for the chance to help those in this country-- I too recognize the privilege to be able to call Canada and the lessons I have been given home. When I critique my home, it is not from a lack of appreciation, but from the perspective of how can we enrich our lives from those cultures that are doing X better. Do I miss the beautiful food I could buy and experience in Barcelona Spain? Yes. Do I miss the mountains and the wonderful pedestrian streets of Innsbruck Austria? Yes. Do I miss the rich culture of Latin America and standing on the tables as Chile won the Copa America? Yes. Do I miss the organization of public transport in nearly every other country I have been to? Yes. Do I miss the never ending beaches of Australia? Yes. Do I miss the the tangible experiences of every place I have lived and travelled? Yes. Now, even with that said, I can tell you with certainty, because of the person I am, that I will never leave Canada permanently and that life here on Vancouver Island Canada is truly the best on earth. I could immediately name a dozen problems with my life in Canada, but they pale in comparison to what you can appreciate about BC Canada. The life I have created here is almost impossible to re-create anywhere else on earth. My only take away for anyone wanting to live abroad or leave Canada would be this: When you talk about living abroad, do you ever consider the 'grass is greener on the other side' concept? When you talk about living abroad, how important is social connection to you and what types of contact fill your social bucket? How important is recreation, activities and nature? How do you feel about leaving your support system (& potentially in your language behind?) Do you not expect hard times living in a new culture and place? Have you spent extended time in the country you're considering? Have you thoroughly researched your job market? Think about what life you want to create in the place you want to create it. Don't fall for someone else's desires, which could very well be the fake green grass on the other side of the fence.
I, my sister, daughter and granddaughter were on the Island visiting my other sister, who lives in Sidney, for 2 weeks at the beginning of July. Had a fantastic time and especially enjoyed the summer weather as compared to what we had been having in Ottawa this year (high heat and humidex or thunder storms, heavy rain, or both). Sidney is a beautiful, walkable city. Could easily move there but the rest of my siblings and family are all here.
For sure. Your own personal contentment and social connections are super important when making a decision. Many people would not be happy living in a country different than the one they grew up in.
Great and well-researched video! We drove on a long term visa for 2 years in Portugal 🇵🇹 on our US Driver’s licenses… just renting a car occasionally when we needed one. We learned the local metro/rail/bus system and rarely needed a car. Uber also filled in a few gaps. Good luck Alina!
I just retired and I'm moving to Cambodia for a couple of years, figuring out the tax situation has been a real struggle. Two consultations with a tax expert, two requests sent to the CRA, and it's still not 100% clear... You can keep your RRSP and TFSA here, but the withholding tax on the RRSP is hefty (TFSA still not taxable), unless you have a lower income and then you can ask for a tax reduction according to your revenue (Form NR5). In this case you do need to file taxes in Canada even if you're a non resident. It's no longer the 60s when the boomers could just pack their bags and move wherever they felt like it 😂
The complicated yet poorly explained tax law of Canada is one major reason to deter people from living in Canada. I think they still include (just include and not to be taxed) your overseas income when calculating your tax owing from RRSP withdraw in Canada right?
@@dominiquetheeasyminimalist Income from overseas are mostly taxed as if earned inland, except for some minor countries which has specific terms in tax treaty with Canada.
I endorse your decision. As a someone who dreams of living abroad, I totally understand why you choose that lifestyle and nobody deserves to judge you. Actually, living abroad itself is a big challenge and not everybody has a capacity to do it. It requires quite a big courage. I do believe that it's worth trying while we live only one life and whether it's successful or not, the experience will be a valuable asset for you. Additionally, I think it's a good choice as current western world is heading to a wrong direction.
Alina I found this video so informative. There is so much to consider when taking this step but it looks like you have put all of the right thought into it. Again I am wishing you all of the best!
Alina, I’ve lived abroad half my life, and just returned to Canada, and the only regret I have is coming back. Congratulations on your upcoming move to Eastern Europe. After experiencing over 100 countries, I did NOT return to Canada to learn Hindi or Urdu in our now domestic ghettos.
It will only get worse, the streets will reek of curry and poop, and the crime rate will continue to skyrocket as long as Trudeau refuses to deport the Pajeets.
Alina, follow your heart. You are correct about not knowing future. Life is always about change. You are a very intelligent person. You also have many skills. I believe that you will thrive in your future. Best of luck to you on your next adventure.
Hi Alina ! Good Luck & Congratulations on your decision to move to Eastern Europe. Both Romania & Bulgaria have lots of appeal to me ! I'm fortunate that I have citizenship in both England & The US & may soon leave the states for England & know I can do it without difficulty. Happy Autumn 😊
The new Russian programme allows foreigners to get a temporary three year residency permit with the option to apply for permanent residency after that period . Its a good way to see if living there is a good fit for you because the stringent requirements to be familiar with the Russian laws, customs and language are waived. They now have more details of what’s involved and learn them before you move there or for that matter, to any eastern European country offering a similar residency programme.
I have heard so many negative comments about leaving Canada too. The biggest ones were the loss of healthcare and the cost of capitol gains costs. Do you have to have residency? Can you just keep moving around and have no home base? I think I’d rather set up in a country for 30-90 days or the max allowed with a visitor visa. Setting up a house is daunting to me. Staying in furnished flats, house sitting or even hotels is more appealing.
You could try, but it's not as safe of a bet as claiming residency elsewhere and setting up a new home. There's some rare examples of people who have said they've been able to get away with 'being a resident of nowhere' but if you're from a high tax country, it's unlikely. If you're not paying taxes and have a home set up somewhere else, it will likely default to your citizenship since you still have the most ties there by simply being a passport holder. You can move around all you want (though you may lose Canadian healthcare if it's for too long), as long as you're paying Canadian taxes, they probably won't ask questions.
I don’t know about Canada, but 1 in 3 men in America will have cancer in their life time. To be able to access to affordable AND most advanced medical service is always the top priority determining where I want to live. I have dual US and UK nationalities and enjoy traveling to different countries for vacation but would never consider living permanently outside the United States. Please make sure you will not lose Canadian medical services before you choose to become a non-resident Canadian citizen.
Yes, very important to consider where you can receive the healthcare you need. But I will also say to consider in which country are you living a healthier life where you are less likely to get those diseases in the first place.
When I returned to Ontario after nearly 19 years overseas, I purchased private health insurance to cover me for the first 3 months, which is how long it takes to re-establish residency, and then I was covered again by the public system.
@@jiminhartReally?Three months seems to be a very short time to re-establish residency. Can private insurance companies deny you an insurance policy due to pre-existing conditions? Here in the United States, thanks to the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies can no longer deny you an insurance policy due to pre-existing conditions. That’s the key point.
@@klnrklnr4433 Not really angry. I’m more just resigned to it all. It is what it is. We live in a democracy…that’s what the people chose…I accept that…true that I don’t like it but that’s the way it is. I’m tired of it here so I am choosing to leave…I believe it’s my right to go where I am treated best and where I will be happiest.
She does not understand the difference between OAS and CPP. Also canadian international driving permit is only valid for a year. These two gaffs make me doubt everything else she's talking aboout. The only advise I can trust here is "consult with a tax professional". Time well wasted.
Great videos on the channel! Just moved to Canada (temporarily) from Europe. It's a big life decision you've made and definitely helps to have all things considered. Wish you the best of luck with wherever you're moving to ☺👍
Important info , thank you . I think you could be the best tutorial video maker for all Canadians about everything , such a what difference between rules of each provinces , a driver license or buy a land etc .
Following with great interest. Myself living in Sweden is also considering a new life somewhere else. Just need the courage to do it. You know what you have, but not what you get.
Hi Alina! This is such an exciting topic and I feel very excited for you as you embark on this new path and journey. I also left Canada after winning a Diversity Visa lottery draw in 1997, and getting a Green Card. I am now a US Citizen but also have a Canadian passport and some financial ties to Canada with an active checking account that I regularly get survivors benefits deposited from Canada Pension. My brother, who lives in Victoria, was just asking me today if I can get 2 pensions? I doubt this, but it's worth looking into. I never really liked living in Canada and I definitely would like it less now, especially with the high taxes, rent, unforgiving climate, and cost of living. In addition, Canada has a much different culture now from when I was growing up in the 70's. I have been following your channel and have seen every one of your videos and I am excited for you because it makes so much sense for you to get out of Dodge and move. Please don't feel any regret. You are moving for the right reasons and you have no obligation to be tied down to Canada's high tax country. I can't tell you how exciting it was for me to move to the USA. There is so much more opportunities here than Canada in terms of employment, climate, choices to live, and much more. I love how well you have done your research. Bon Voyage! Love and Light!
Well, I want to go the opposite way. Leaving the UK for Canada looks much more promising for a better future. I've had it with this country, it's depressing as it gets. Actually, that's a lie, it will get much, much worse.
Bad idea go somewhere else. My parents moved here from the UK when I was young, and I feel like my life would have been better if they didn't. Average house in this country is now 1M+ you can't have a life here.
You may want to reconsider that. I know people from the UK who moved here and they said the same thing that happened in their home country is happening in Canada and while I hear UK has stabilized.. Canada is a whole mess and it’s not going to be corrected for decades
I did the same. I lived in London for 5 years, and some other countries but after I've made my calculatuion I understod that I need to work for 30 years to afford real estate that I can buy just for a year at home, as already I had two. After I lived in shared home and got robed 3 times and calculated how much I save I saw that actually I save twice less. A year ago I returned and bought a village house here in Bulgaria for 33.5 thousand euros and is brand new and I am happy. There are loads of crap options, but if a person search for a bit longer can find a good one. Also there are Turkish companies that can build a brand new home for 42-45 thousand euro including the land and interior and all needed for 2-3-4 months. At least now I can go here without thinking about rents etc as when I was in the UK and i feel safer. Now I regret a bit, because I see how my schoolmates who stayed are 10 years in front of me and I had the not as good as it looks life in London meanwhile. In the cities the prices are like twice, but now there is a bouble and I think in 2-3 years the pricecs in Bulgaria could decrease with like 30% maybe, who knows.
@johngreydanus2033 Well, you can never find haven on earth. There is no perfect place. Canada has harsh winters, but looking at the full half of the glass, I can ignore the cold.
You can do two things: Live full-time outside of Canada in a tax-treaty country and receive a flat tax on all Canadian-sourced income of only 15%. Or, you can live part-time outside of Canada and keep your connections and benefits within Canada as you age. To become a non-resident, you have to live an entire year outside of Canada before claiming non-residency, and depending on when you dispose of assets (usually well before you become non-resident), you won't be subject to an FU tax (capital gains). Assets not subject to the FU tax are Primary home, RRSP/FHSA/TFSA/RESP/LIRA/etc. The test of whether you are a non-resident is tied to the country, such as accounts and family. However, accounts are easy to close, and family is not necessarily the test; it's just one thing of several. Practically speaking, you can either turn your primary house into a business (rental) or sell it some years before leaving Canada. Consider that even if you are subject to some FU tax, if you plan it correctly, you can reside in a territorial tax jurisdiction, set up your investments in a tax-free location, and earn back in a few years the money Canada stole from you because you didn't enjoy their taxes. Is it worth it to leave? Sure, because you can live at far less cost, your money will go much further, especially with lower taxation. If you remain in Canada, consider making yourself and your assets tax efficient: RRSP/TFSA/FHSA and Eligible Dividends, which will lower your taxes. It's all about quality of life, so remember, as you age, you must ensure safety, security, and available quality health and dental.
You will never regret this, I am ready to renounce my Canadian citizenship and leave for good. Canada is not a livable country thanks to Trudope government
You don't have to renounce, that's a bit drastic, I left in 1971 when I was 20, never went back, and they still pay me a bit of pension money every month.
@@ericyuan9718 Australian, when I applied for pension, they sent me the forms for Canada, and would not process anything about Australian pension until they knew my benefit. They take it into account as foreign pension but at $90 moth, it does not affect Aussie pension.
Sending you my best vibes and best of luck in your choices:) as per the adapting to where you are living I think everyone should make an effort to learn the place they are in, you won’t get it right right away or perfect. Makes you less of a douche and not like this Brit lady I met in Spain who basically lives in an enclave, speaks zero Spanish and treats locals like the help AND then complains about migrants in the UK without missing a beat. There is so much to learn an embrace with an open mind.
I pray that you do well in your new venture and steps in your life. We love you and we wish you the very best. We are planning on doing the same in the future. Take care and be blessed and ignore the haters.
You are a Canadian. Always will be. Where ever you live. That is a constant. And we always welcome our people back fullstop Or come and get you. I was born In The USA. Raised and lived in Canada all of my life. I have both. I love the people in both countries. Beautiful people
To be honest I am Canadian I am conflicted on this issue. I know a family member that lives in a third world country on the cheap and jumps on a plane back to Canada to get on the waiting list for surgery (hip replacement). Even though he doesn't live here anymore he will try to get OAS and sent his kid to U of T because she is a dual citizen, but they have no plans to make Canada their home. I feel like I'm being short-changed on my taxes.
@@Tdot6 Okay, so you're upset about something that might happen in the future. Do you really think he will benefit that much after he answers all the questions on the application form? Remember, his passport tells them how long he has been out of country, and tax office will show lack of contributions.
Great video. Great channel. Regarding a drivers licence. You can get a international drivers licence from any CAA branch in Canada. It's good for most countries. Valid for one year.
Can we be honest here for just a tiny little bit! as far as I can tell, the ONLY real reason you are leaving Canada or ANY country is because you are self employ making money on "internet", you don't feel you should "waste" a lot of your income paying tax on service you don't need or use since you stay there only partly and your job does not require you to be there! This is EXACTLY same reason really wealthy person want to move to place like Monaco, Liechtenstein or Cayman Islands! it is call Wealth Migration, and you are not the first or the 100k individual who do so! there is no reason to BASH Canada just because it doesn't fit your want or need! might I suggest Gibraltar!!
if you have traveled to other countries, quality of life is much, much better also, since taxes are approaching 70%, that is taking 2/3 of what you make- absolute insanity. Then the gov gives it to 'new immigrants' whom they hope will take the jobs no one wants like tim hortons . Go read the Great Replacement Theory .
Most people who leave Canada probably haven't explored other parts of the country. Canada has more geographic, economic, provincial diversity than any other country
@@johngreydanus2033 Vancouver Island and Vancouver area has basically no winter. And if and when it gets too cold for you for a few days then do like I do and go on a road trip to Nevada or California. I don’t like flying but others can take a week in Mexico instead
@@tgoodson2 Not everyone can live around Vancouver, or wants too, and Mexico is the last place I would ever go visit, some Australians killed there recently for no reason whatsoever.
When I was a young guy I loved skiing and playing hockey and there is no better place for those Sports then Canada. However now that I'm old I tend to go where there's warmer weather and in the summer I go where there's cooler weather which means northern Canada
Exiting choices you’re making! And you are absolutely right that if you choose to live outside your home country you should work hard to learn the local language. It makes all the difference in the world to be able to speak the language including showing respect to your new home. I was born and raised in the US and became dual national some years ago after living and working in an EU/EEA country. I also lived in several other countries outside the EU/EEA before that. I’ve never regretted any of it no matter how many challenges or setbacks came up along the way and I still get giddy with excitement when I ponder that I can now live/work/study free and clear in all EU/EEA countries, which I’m in fact currently doing as I no longer live in either of my countries of citizenship.
So you weren't born here, you're family didn't want to give up their original citizenship. And now you're planning to move... but you want a Canadian pension and to keep our passport rights? Talk about spitting in our face.
Incorrect. You get pension based on how much you contributed during your working years. If you are an immigrant, you have worked less in Canada and have had less taken out from your pay check. So at 65 you will receive less, until your death, compared to Canadian who started contributing at 18 or so.
My husband and I are are planning on moving to Serbia from Canada within the next few years. We are working on seeing how we can obtain permanent residency and citizenship in Serbia and are trying to plan out all of the logistical details in advance to make the transition easier. After evaluating the current situation in Canada including the very high costs of housing and living we have decided that this is the right decision for us.
As a Canadian living outside of Canada was the best choice ever.
Yeah you got out before the madness really began lol
@@AlinaMcleod We all support you. Stay strong I know you will.
Exactly. The people who stay in Canada in the current situation are turning into crabs in a bucket.
@@Maxშემიწყალე Imagine for a moment ALL OF CANADIANS leaving.. :) Not everyone has that option, sadly. And enough of them still support the current system so those who can not leave but must stay - can not change the system.
This is why many parished during great conflicts.. The current situation in Ukraine is a prime example. People are now effectively prisoners of the state unable to leave and to live.
Where are you living now?
Being kind and adapting to the newly adopted culture and making local friends, cannot be overstated. Regardless of which country you move to. I’m glad you mentioned that Alina!
Every crash/collapse brings with it an equivalent market chance if you are early informed and equipped, I've seen folks amass up to $1m amid economy crisis, and even pull it off easily in favorable conditions. Unequivocally, the collapse is getting somebody somewhere rich.
I do not disagree, there are strategies that could be put in place for solid gains regardless of economy or market condition, but such execution are usually carried out by investment experts with experience since the 08' crash.
The issue is people have the "I want to do it myself mentality" but not equipped enough for a crash, hence get burnt. Ideally, advisors are reps for investing jobs, and at first-hand encounter, my portfolio has yielded over 300% since 2020 just after the pandemic to date.
i'm blown away! mind sharing more info please? i am a young adult living in Miami where i've encountered several millionaires, and my goal is to become one as well.
NICOLE ANASTASIA PLUMLEE' is the licensed fiduciary I use. Just research the name. You’d find necessary details to work with a correspondence to set up an appointment.
I just curiously searched her up, and I have sent her an email. I hope she gets back to me soon. Thank you
We left Ottawa in 2020 and settled in southern Europe and we have mostly good things to say about our choice. The climate is amazing and the food and people are real. No more fake smiles and asocial neighbors and colleagues. We have truly friendly neighbors who we can count on for pretty much anything and kids have great friends. And all this in just over 4 years.
Great to hear!
Better neighbors? We'll see.
@@tgoodson2 Way, way better...Any neighbor that doesn't beat on his wife and smokes dope on the porch almost every day is better. He even ran after my friend's kids with a truck because they were throwing football on his lawn...true story.
@@pero33403 You had a bad neighbour. You didn't have to move to another country (although that is your own choice) to get better ones. I live in rural Ottawa in a great neighbourhood. Have lived here over 40 years.
@@pero33403 seems like a good basis for a lucrative Tik Tok video
If you are seriously considering something, do it.. You rarely regret things you do, but things you don't do.. I lived abroad for a few years, and even though I moved back to my country, the experiences I got will stay with me forever...
Absolutely, my thoughts exactly :) as long as you are aware of the main consequences and plan for them, it's a very exciting opportunity that will enrich your life.
@@RuthBrown-tm2gt Not sure what these assets are. Her organizational abilties? Her video production skills? Like many Canadians, she's probably overpaid in taxation. Right now, my limited information is that her passport and her mental ability are her main assets. She needs to find how to guard those.
@@AlinaMcleodvery feminine stupid conclusion.
@MrZnarffy you are so right. We regret the things we don't do. I am 70 years old. I don't regret the things I have done and the mistakes I had learnt from my past but I regret the opportunities I should have taken when I was younger. So, carpet diem...live for the day and never regret for that chance may never again pass your way!
@@RuthBrown-tm2gt Does Rick Steves? Does Lonely Planet? Now, admittedly, I am in the segment of society that won't get on a plane to practically anywhere. But do her travel vlogs get views? TH-cam cares about views. I'd say that in Google's eyes, she is. And then my next question is why are skeptics even commenting? What is the concrete value of the gajillion dollar movie industry? Is that "concrete value"? I don't put much value on it. "Too much" in the tax area is highly controversial. Why do corporations claim phony locations to escape taxes?
Canadians fleeing Canada. Facts.
Yeah sure. So you think there's a big party just for you when you emigrate, food, drink, a live band, friendly smiles all round?
Alina just nailed it! Foreigners should always integrate in adopted countries they choose to immigrate to. Make life easy for yourselves!
She and her mother seem to have done that in Canada.
they have an _option_ to be integrated in adopted country, it's not mandatory when you have your own business and can do things through the internet. almost each country has neighborhood for the wealthy expats, even local language is not mandatory, b/c most staff in stores and barbershops speaks English in there.
@@evgeniy9744 Language learning has nothing to do with owning a business, neither is it based on wealth. Usually functional use of a language is required during the citizenship phase. In Portugal you have to pass an written and oral exam.
@@steelcom5976 sure, you are right! and it means if you do not have plans to obtain local citizenship and you do not need a local job and you have enough money - there is no strong necessity to learn language. Sometimes you even could have a local job in IT or finances without local language knowledge. many people are living abroad and do not speak local language for a years.
@@evgeniy9744 I agree with you BUT when you meet someone who likes and helps you and wishes to be your friend, it would be surprising to choose never to build your network of friends as an expat.
Left 6 years ago and don’t regret it at all. My career has taken off in the US, my income has more than doubled and my family enjoys a better quality of life. Every trip back reaffirms my decision to leave. If you regret it, you can always return.
I wish I left 5 years ago. Toronto is a shithole. How hard was it for you to get a US job, did u need a TN visa? Did the employer balk at the paperwork?
@@ericyuan9718 You better hurry up before Trump become the next president again and build a great big beautiful Wall between US and Canada to keep all the Canadian migrant/geese OUT! I think Canada is just about as bad as Central/South America according to Alina!!
I'd like to be able to move to the US but you have to be rich
@@ericyuan9718any Canadian that lives in Toronto doesn’t know the best parts of Canada. Toronto is the worst place in Canada to live 🤷♂️ It’s like Americans choosing to live in Manhattan, why would they do that to themselves? You prefer the higher expenses and parking not being free I guess 😂 and you must love traffic jams too
@@FranklyTheyCallMeFrankie Unfortunately I'm an office worker and the job market in the rest of Canada simply doesn't hold a candle to Toronto. Let's say i find a data analyst job in Calgary? If I get laid off, chances are, I'm leaving Calgary as my savings would likely run out before i get another job.
You are making THE best decision leaving Canada and becoming a non-Canadian resident. With everything thats happening here in Canada, specifically after COVID, I believe Canada has lost its reputation around the world, considering the way they have treated their own people during COVID, inflation, immigration, safety and security, increase in taxes and overall decrease in living standards and increase in poverty. This is not the Canada that I was raised and knew. So, if I get the opportunity to leave, I would do it before it gets worse. Dont listen to what people say, do what you think is right in your heard.
The grass is always greener....
Taxes haven't gone up in Canada. Pretty much the same for the last 40 years, certainly not noticeable. I actually pay less now than I did 10 years ago. We are one of the safest countries in the world.
Utter nonsense. Not so long ago Canada forged an important trade deal with the EU under J Trudeau which required the unanimous vote of all 27 countries in that Union, a remarkable achievement. So you really have no clue what you're talking about.
@@jonnysaint5261 Mine stayed the same as well.
@@jonnysaint5261 Are you saying capital gain taxes never changed in the last 40 years? Luxury taxes existed in the last 40 years? Carbon taxes existed in the last 40 years? Airport taxes always stayed the same in the last 40 years? Even the income taxes have gone up. I love this country, but people need to wake up and be aware of whats happening. Your rights are being taken away little by little. We used to be one of the safest countries in the world, do you know what the crime rate is in Canada? do you even remember having a car theft in Canada? have a random shoot out or stabbing while walking on the street? We are not the safest country anymore. Don't be too oblivious to your surroundings, I think its time to wake up.
OAS has nothing to do with working, it’s only based on years lived within the country after age 18 working or not
True, I did state that incorrectly. But I would home that most people are working :)
@@AlinaMcleodscared me a bit there, because I thought I missed the "working" part in my research. I'm not going to work in my final (20th) year in Canada before moving out.
The problem comes with taxes. If the target country has a tax agreement simply continue to file your Canadian taxes. If not, the Gov't might withhold OAS/CPP. If there is no tax agreement you might end up being double-taxed (i.e. both countries)
Your comments on medical and dental care in Canada vs. overseas are right on. This is the main reason I left Canada.
How long ago was Canadian medicine admirable?
Canadian here. Life is too short to waste it living in Canada. I’m in SEA and rarely go back.
My man, living the dream, how are the logistics for visa running in 2024? Any crackdowns yet?
Depends on your personal experiences. I was in the US for 2+ years and had 2 cars stolen and my apartment mailbox ripped up from time to time. And figures are showing crime is even worse now.
send your passport back and embrace whatever dump you are in
@@steelcom5976 You should try N. Korea, I heard the crime rate is pretty low!
@@mracer8 You don't need oppression to avoid school shootings.
It's funny how life turns out.
In the 1970's my employer, Rockwell International, wanted me to move from the UK to the US. I turned the offer down for family reasons.
Later I visited the Canadian consulate to enquire about emigration but experienced a very unpleasant consulate official so it went nowhere. I'm grateful to him for that in hindsight given the political situation in Canada under Castreau.
So now I'm in France for the past 20 years and very happy with the lifestyle, climate, my friends and neighbours.
France? Are you kidding me? Did you have a tax avoidance scheme for those 20 years?
France is a decadent country. Good luck there!
France? and you are talking about political situation in Canada?? What planet are you living in?
There is pros and cons to every country. Be happy in France. Not sure what the politics in Canada has to do with anything though. I still have a home, good job, family and friends, etc.
With all the problems in Canada some of which include the high cost of living, long waits for healthcare services in many cases, lousy weather, very high taxable income rates, sub-par social services for the amount of taxes paid, lack of affordable housing, homeless crisis, drug crisis, relatively high debt levels for Canadians and 'black & white' thinking in Canada which you mentioned in one of your previous videos it's no wonder many Canadians have chosen to leave Canada. My wife and I now live in southern Turkey and are VERY happy with our lifestyle here. No more Canadian mortgage, bad weather, potentially long line ups for healthcare services in Canada, etc. Moreover, we are relatively close to Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, etc, which makes traveling easier and more convenient. Leaving Canada was the best choice we ever made.
I'm glad it worked out for you!
My wife and I left Canada in 2005 and it was the best decision that we ever made. We went from quite a few years of living paycheck to paycheck, to being financially stable within the first few months.
That’s wonderful to hear!
Where did you end up? No one seems to want to tell us. Maybe you'd be the first.
@@steelcom5976 I don't mind telling. We are currently on the Maryland side of the Baltimore-Washington metro. Went from Ottawa to Michigan to begin with.
@@rich7447 Thanks. I lived in New Haven for 2+ years and couldn't wait to excape back to normalcy after I had 2 cars stolen and my apartment mailbox ripped open periodically.
@@steelcom5976 I worked in Groton when we lived in Michigan. Flew out of New Haven once and decided to stick with Providence from that point onward even if it meant a worse flight.
I pay 20k less taxes and am in a country with better health insurance and health care. I regreted nothing except for not being able to contribute to a TFSA - but then I realized capital gains aren't even taxed in investment accounts in Hong Kong - so now I literally regret nothing.
That's wonderful to hear!
We don't have VAT and capital gain tax on property (by individual) in Hong Kong too.
Гонконг отличный мир для интроверта у себя в келье 4×3 метра, но для меня или для туриста +30 дней слишком тесен 😂
I’ve lived in Hong Kong most of my life but after the enforcement of local National Security Law in June 30, 2020, I started to sell my Hong Kong properties and my cars. My son(he was born in Toronto)moved back to Vancouver around two years ago, I bought a pre-sale townhouse in Vancouver BC three years ago under his name. I will move there with my wife shortly but I will stay there only in summer and autumn, not more than 182 days in a year as I don’t want to be a tax resident in Canada because the capital gain tax since June 24 is 66.7% for those who earn more than CAD$250,000 per year. Therefore, I will be staying in different cities like Okinawa, Penang, Phu Quoc, Chiang Mai….etc. during winter months. My wife likes Eastern Europe too. I always like someone’s saying, “Stay Where You Are Treated Best” !
@@dwoo1860how does d National Security laws affect u? R u a foreign spy?
I'm selling my Australian properties to buy hk properties.
Been a non- resident for 20 years. I don’t regret
Tip from a Canadian ..live in British Columbia ..in the mountains ..skip living in citys , there is no special lifestyle going on in any city ..mountain town with lots of outdoor lifestyle going on is fantastic
She is a travel vlogger and her passion is exploring countries. Alina needs to be near an airport hub! Not in the middle of nowhere. Canada wasn't attractive for that in the first place. How many countries do you have within a radius of 5 hours?
have lived in BC for 12 years, lots of great spots Kootenays, sunshine coast, etc. problem is little to no jobs in the small towns, and lack of healthcare need to go to Kelowna or Vancouver for a doctor & wait for years to get help. can be quite isolating too
Well that advice didn't accomplish anything other than reveal your lack of knowledge on various topics , especially regarding Alina's needs. ie: it costs as much to fly from Fort Nelson or other ' bush' towns to an International Airport as it does to fly from that Canadian International Airport to most places abroad.
@@lhollybow cheaper for me to fly Vancouver to Europe than BC to another province!
common, I went back to Prince George recently after being away for a few decades.. it's got more East Indians then New Deli does. Not a chance i would move to BC.
Very informative video - you've raised a lot of important points and really done your homework. I'm currently in the process of becoming a resident of an EU country / non-resident of Canada, so I relate to everything you mentioned. Best of luck with your big move!
Thank you! Wishing you the best with your move as well!
EU is a really bad choice, it's Canada light, all western european countries are in decline since 911. The welfare states are being destroyed, just like in Canada, inc. loss of individual free and unrestricted mass migration. The EU is boss over European countries and every single country carries out their agendas, which also is directed by WEF and UN. Better to move to more sovereign countries in south america or south east asia. Eastern europe is just a matter of time, lagging ~10 years behind and is at the front of the upcoming BRICS and escalation of war (think compulsory drafting and a war economy), is that worth it for you to then emigrate again? People usually only emigrate once in their life if they do, it just cost a lot of time, energy and money to finally settle in and especially if you get kids, it's pretty much a no by that time. And I know, because im from north west europe and many people with money and those favoring freedom have left or are in the process of leaving. The housing crises here in NL is also insane, it's all on purpose and maybe-most likely this entire western world emigrating is part of a bigger plan to have in 1000 years a universal slave race.
@@AlinaMcleod Core reality is that this works for YOU. It isn't "one size fits all"
@@mrzeus9411 I've said more than once: 40 MILLION Canadians can find "a place" to improve their lives. Could be the majority have to FIX CANADA
It is clear from your statements that you have already settled on the country you're moving to. This is the show I am waiting for! I am very curious about that Eastern European country and your reasons for it!
Good job!
Likewise. It is like a mystery series. Where can someone l ike Alina live as an expat? I'm living in suspense for the ultimate answer.
@@JimMork-r9uI’m willing to bet Romania :)
@@FreedomPlaya It is fun. I know where I WISH she'd go because I've spent 2 weeks there.But I did NO research. She's researched this to death. If that research says "Romania" hey, follow the facts. Could be just too good for the taxes. I know much about living costs, but I was a tourist. Taxes never mattered.
I left Canada in 1997 and now living in Arizona! That was the best move I have ever made. I go back to Montreal to see my family but I would not go back to live there! I just applied for my AOS and should get a part of it since the USA has the agreement! good luck to you and never regret anything !!! Cuenca Ecuador is another place in South America where there are a lot of Expats
You should read some news and look at stats before recommending a country like Ecuador to expats.
Good riddance...
U must be a subscriber of that American couple that promotes Cuenca. Forgot their name, oh, was it Amalie and JP?
@@ericyuan9718 non not at all. My neighbor is there at the moment for 3 months to escape the burning Temperature of Arizona
Many expats are leaving Cuenca, Ecuador due to high crime.
People are so hostile to each other here. I find the friendliness is on a surface level and people will talk shit behind your back. I have been living here for 10 years now and can’t wait to get the fuck out next year
It may be more to do with you than 'them'
the good thing about living in a country where you don't speak the language fluently is, that you don't get bothered by the local news.
Agreed. Passive/aggressive is part of the culture.
@@klnrklnr4433 not sure if it is me. I experienced this at work where my coworkers shit-talking about our clients, our managers or even our company. The most interesting part is when they talk shit about other colleagues they don't like and you still see them laughing and chatting around them. Where I was originally from, if we don't like someone, we tend to keep a distance but here is very confusing.
Going by my personal experience, the checking account thing is accurate. I maintained a checking account in a Canadian bank throughout nearly 2 decades of non-residency and there was never a problem or even a question after I returned.
And the 3 month wait to reinstate provincial health care is pretty friendly as well.
@@steelcom5976 Yes, it was 3 months for me in Ontario.
Cut all ties and do a clean break...I studied tax and CRA uses visits and maintained bank balances as tests for residency and thus could try and tax you
@@KayakerDude-cw1kk Nice tautology, but very bad advice. If you cut ties during the typical 5 year resident period before citizenship you literally are not a citizen of any country and would have no passport.
@@jiminhart Depending on where you ended up there could be some tax issues. Canada has tax treaties with almost 100 countries so problems shouldn't arise in those. However some countries like Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland and Australia are only at the negotiation stage and Belgium is not yet in force.
Make sure there's tax agreement between Canada and new country, it's really important.
It sure is!
Why is that?
@@michaelr.7805 to avoid double taxation.
Better yet, go to a country that doesn't tax your foreign earned income and setup yourself as a business/corporation in a business friendly country.
Canada doesn't tax foreign income. The last Canadian income tax return that I files was for the 2005 tax year (I was resident in Canada for part of that year).
You be you and we will always admire you.
Aw thank you!
It’s nobody’s business where you want to live. I’m very lucky like you in visiting many foreign countries and appreciating different cultures. There is so much many countries can offer oneself. I think I saved most of your travels, so I can experience or revisit those places. Best wishes to you on finding a new residence (long-term or temporary).
No! you will not! We are Canadian non-residet in republic of Georgia. 1% small business tax, safety, no homelesness, no drug adects, got a large house CASH, small properyi tax or no property tax based on your income, amazing climate etc.
What can you keep in Canada while not being a resident?
I think you made a GREAT decision. You are young…& worldly…& have a solid head on your shoulders. I salute your “bravery,” Alina!
Thanks, Charles!
Everyone will have a different life journey and experience. There’s no right or wrong 🙏🏼 Safe travels.
Thank you for another great video.. I am also working on the options to move out of Canada and your videos are of great help..
Keep up the good work and hope your journey to resettle somewhere better goes smooth.
Thank you! Glad you find them helpful 🙂
Around 21:00, I wholeheartedly agree, I was in Japan and found many tourists who were as you described as entitled and rude. Very well said.
I lived in Poland for several months, and I loved it!! I'm also extremely lucky as I have three passports/citizenships, including European. I've often considered returning to Eastern Europe because I loved it so much there, and the cost of living is significantly cheaper than in Canada. I've also frequently, throughout my life, moved back and forth between the UK and Canada, so it's always an option to move back should you wish - these days things are a lot easier than when our parents immigrated.
The bottom line is that I've been there and done that, and I wish you all the best! You've clearly done your homework and brought up aspects of emigration that I hadn't considered despite having moved around so much. Great job, and you've given me even more to consider as I decide where to "retire".
Thank you! Glad you had your own experience with this 🙂
How's Poland? Has the quality of life been affected with the amount of Ukrainian refugees?
@@ericyuan9718 My friends who live in Poland don't really have a problem with the Ukrainian refugees, and I think the reasoning is threefold. First, before the war there were already a lot of Ukrainians in Poland - I met many of them who drove Ubers and Taxis. They are hardworking people and generally quite humble. Second, Ukrainians and Poles are culturally and linguistically similar, so integration is easier. They also have similar histories, which brings me to the final point. Poles are very conscious of the threat of a return to the USSR, and they DO NOT want to go there again. I think many of them see the Ukrainians fleeing the war in a kind of "there but for the grace of God go I" kind of thing. They hope and pray that the war ends in Ukraine and doesn't bleed into Poland. I have one friend who was volunteering at an aid station to welcome the refugees and was very proud of what Poland was doing.
@@ericyuan9718 The rent prices went up by one third right after the war began. more people were in public places (Canadian visa application center especially) and in public transport. Inflation affected prices, but it's more post-covid rather than war-related, b/c banks key rates skyrocketed throughout all OECD (but politics likes to blame ru as an inflation reason). Probably it was harder to find a manual labor job since many Ukranians came and filled in those vacant job positions. And waiting time of obtaining presidentship became longer. That's pretty much it. There is still some political tension between Poland and Russia that creates some potential risks, but overall Poland is the best place to live from the cost of living/quality of life standpoint, especially if you are able to earn money abroad/remotely. But better to live in a big city in there.
@@evgeniy9744 "especially if you are able to earn money abroad/remotely" yeah that sums it up nicely
I once planned on moving to Australia from Montreal, Canada. I lived in Sydney for 5 months and mostly liked it. The nasty surprise was that everything was TWICE the price of that in Montfeal, but the incomes were not commensurate.
Australia seems like a downgrade to me.
@@ColtonBlumhagen My #1 problem in Montreal consisted of very serious family issues. #2 was the long harsh winter. I had a house in the suburbs and car to maintain throughout all of the 4 seasons here . This #2 problem was far less serious than the first one.
I chose there because it had a lot in common with Canada in terms of multiculturalism and being part of the Commonwealth, and also it has no winter. I saved up as much as I could. When I got there I was shocked to see how expensive it was. No one had told me about this, and I had not done enough of my own research about the cost of living there. Everything in Sydney was twice the price of everything in Montreal, but the salaries were not twice higher, and also the Canadian Dollar was very weak at that time, weaker than the Australian Dollar.
I stayed there for the time I had planned. For the most part I liked it. Most people were friendly, the food and nightlife were good. I lived in a pleasant place.
I could not afford it, though, so in the end I returned here. Now I live in a flat in Montreal and no longer have a car. I work from home via the Internet. I am close to everything, so I don't need a car, and I don't have to shovel snow, rake autumn leaves nor mow the summer lawn, nor winterize the house and car. My family problems no longer exist.
Everything is better now than it was then.
@@ColtonBlumhagen Far too much down under........ 😊
@@ColtonBlumhagen Healthcare within Australian states and territories has a mix of government and private-sector funding. Even if healthcare is of a better quality in a given Aussie state or territory than any Canadian one:
- so much of Mainland Australia is unbearably hot for much of the year, with the Outback taking up much of that Mainland portion
- Tasmania is a bit more remote although the off-mainland territories are even more remote
@@VladislavBabbittthere are other cities in Australia other than Sydney. Which is the most expensive.
Hello Alina! I am your frequent follower and I only wish you the best! With that said, I really like Canada and always will and I only wish Canada the best too! Cheers to you!
It's so interesting me as a Ukrainian see you and listen to you :)
Thank you for creating such an informative, useful, and transparent video. I appreciate your dedication to helping others.
My pleasure!
Hi Alina,
It's so exciting to make a plan on moving to a different country isn't it!!
I, Japanese brought my family to the US 24 years ago. We all are happy being here 😊 My guess on your new place is Albania. My wife guesses Croatia. Isn't that so nice to be able to go visit Italy, Greece or the neighboring gorgeous islands so easily!!? No matter where you live, you have a great life! God bless you!
Thank you and happy you’re enjoying the US with your family!
You have been SO incredibly thorough and I respect and admire that. I know you will land on your feet wherever you choose to put down roots. Keep posting, I always appreciate and enjoy your content Alina.
Time to put your focus and create a family Alina! You will be very happy when you see their smiles every day telling you how much they love you.
yes the clock is ticking
Any major life decision can carry with it the possibility of regret. That's just the way life is. But it also works just as much the other way too.
When you're old and infirm and no longer able to do the things you always wanted to do and wish you had done them when you had the chance, that's a whole other level of regret.
Nobody when they're old, looks back on their life and regrets the stuff they didn't buy but a whole lot of people regret not doing the things they wish they'd done when they could have.
Things are not that complex. If a person has no ties to Canada like home ownership and family CRA will have no issues with non residency. On the last return there is a date that one left. If it's less than 183 days in Canada that tax year is a non residency. There a "departure tax" where assets like stocks have to be "sold" and capital gains tax paid if applicable.
CPP stays as is, amount depends on whatever was contributed by the resident and can start at 62 or later. Flat 15% withholding tax for non residents. Same for private pension. OAS has nothing to do with work history but the number of years as a Canadian resident up to 40 years. So a 20 year resident gets half. GIS is a program for residents. RRSP can stay put or can be withdrawn at 25% flat tax. TFSA can also stay put or withdrawn but no new contributions for non residents. Driving licenses have nothing to do with Canada but rather with local rules that may or may not transfer to local ones. Has to do with agreements between countries. The worst case is to do it in the new place again.
These youtubers make million$ per year. I am sure they already have enough to last the rest of their lives.
TH-cam doesn't pay anywhere near that much unless you're in the hundreds of millions in views.
CPP withdraws 25 % of taxes, as does private pension. Pkease check
Generally yes but with most tax treaty countries it's 15% www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp/cpp-international/before-apply.html
Hello Alina, My wife and I left Canada ( Calgary) in 2020 and moved to Costa Rica. ( Potrero ) we have embraced the lifestyle of the country and have no regrets. From watching some of your videos, I think we would share many life philosophy’s and you clearly have an adventurous spirit. If you are still considering your options; perhaps visiting us at our home here in Costa Rica would be of interest to you. Food luck in your journey. best regards, Phil & Michelle
Nice! We tried Costa Rica but then they mandated that we wouldn't be able to rent a Hotel room, so had to leave.
Re prices in Canada and Eastern Europe, I wouldn't generalize. In the last 5 years half of westerners moved to Eastern Europe, doubling the prices of real estate. The war in Ukraine also contributed. So Eastern Europe is in many cases more expensive than Canada. I came to Canada from Eastern Europe 30 years ago. My salary ws $100 per month and my rent was $20 per month. All prices were in cents, though. The esspresso in the most expensive hotel in town was 40 cents and beer was 80 cents. But meat, for example veal, was $4 for 1kg of tenderloin (!). Go figure.
The rent in the same town is now $800 per month. This represents 40 times increase!! 4000% !!! Folks, don't kid yourself. I literally counted price after price in Canada Toronto and Eastern Europe. Discounts there, when there are discounts, are 10 to rarely 15%. In Toronto, in the period of 2019 to 2023 I regularly shopped in Loblaws at 50% discount, even luxurious things like bison or elk steaks! Fish, same things. And many other produce. Right now, this very moment, soy sauce is 4 times more expensive in eastern Europe than Toronto, for example.
I love your perspective as an immigrant to Canada, albeit a young girl, looking to emmigrate. You are very well spoken and have obviously done real research.
I saw the title of this video and came here to make a quick comment that residency, tax residency, nationality and citizenship are all different things - in countries like the UK and the US, even nationality and citizenship differ. Then at 1:45 or so I heard you explaining it to perfection 👌🏽 I’m an Indian Overseas Citizen (OCI) by descent, a South African citizen, an Australian citizen and an American green card holder/permanent resident _and_ a tax resident in the US. And I was not born in any of these countries. It constantly amazes me how people don’t realize that tax residency is a thing unto itself, or that being born somewhere doesn’t always mean that you are a citizen of that place. Or that nationality is not always the same as ethnicity or that it doesn’t always translate to citizenship. Like you said, it all depends…
Yup exactly!
As an immigration lawyer in Winnipeg, I love that you understand that each case is different. I hear almost every day, "XXX did this. I want you to help me do the same thing." OK! Let's see if you also qualify for that program.... Personally, I've lived in Europe, South America and Asia. Enjoy your time abroad!
Canadians regret being Canadian. Trudeau and Singh have to go. The Bloc one too.
You're full of sensibility Alina. Best of luck with your final decision. Onwards and upwards. 👍😊🇨🇦🇺🇦
I left Vancouver 10 years ago and have zero regrets about not living in Canada any longer. I know many other Canadians in exactly the same situation. Many friends have asked me why I prefer living in America. Many, many reasons, but I don't ever see myself moving back "home".
When you left Canada I assume you had to close all your bank accounts (since I understand they need a Canadian address for you). If so then you had to collapse your RRSP, right? Thank you for your reply - I a trying to figure this out for my own situation.
I left in the 1989 and never looked back. No bank account, no RRSP, nada 😂
@@johnmorelli3775 RBC won't ask you to close your bank accounts. As far as the U.S., RBC, TD, BMO and CIBC all have U.S. branches/offer cross-border banking.
Lets just hope canada in 10 15 years bounce back
On my side since 6 months i am living in south of france. Tax wise salary wise cost of living is the same as in canada more or less
But at least i live by the beach! I can swim in sea. I dont have a freezing icy winter for 6 months. South france is very fun. Its not like our canadian cities who get very boring after a while
I get very delicious bio food drink alcohol for cheap price. No fancy cheese at 20$ it cost 4$ here the same cheese😂
sea food olive oil milk product eggs fruits vegetable very cheap here
I am planning on getting france passport since i am french canadian. It was best choice for me. I already know the language
To me canada is in very down spiral decade. It makes no sense you waste away 10 20 years of your youth for so little in return. Youre getting scammed in this whole deal
Maybe canada by 2035 or 2040 is gonna become back to its prime self. But it would take a genius miracle
@@mathewvanostin7118 Properties in South of France are cheaper too (unless you want a waterfront villa or a luxury condo in Monaco).
Hi Alina, thanks for the update, yes mentioned dental, could you recommend a country with good dentist and good price please 🙏
I can't wait to get out of here myself and wish you all the luck in the World. If I could I would renounce my Canadian citizenship in a heartbeat.
Ive lived outside Canada for 10 years now and life's been fantastic !
These videos are really fun, as a guessing game. I can't wait to see the answer. I guessed Romania or Bangkok a while back, but since last week videos, I'll just say Romania now.
Yes Romani it is.. but both Poland and Romania are getting affected by the current war in Ukraine which with time might get worse...
Romania Tax rate is very low and cost of living is not that bad if one belongs to economic middle class.
@@danh.8725 Cost of living in Romania and pretty much most of Eastern Europe country is dirt cheap compare to US/Canada/Western Europe! as a easy to understand example, A Latte in Romania/Czeh/Bulgaria/Poland will be around $1.50eu in coffee shop and a dine in Dinner around $12eu! compare to where you paying now! is not hard to compare
@@danh.8725Neither Romania, nor Poland are affected by the war in Ukraine.
I mean, there are strategic risks, of course, but it didn't affect our economy, nor our standard of living.
A slavic speaker will not move to Romania. No way. The transition will be so much easier in a slavic speaking country. You would know more than 50% of the language from day 1.
I guessed Slovenia or Poland.
Awesome video! We are Canadians, my husband also holds an Irish passport. Our plan is to move to Bulgaria as retirees. We have done our research throughly and are very excited about our decision. We are pretty sure you have chosen Bulgaria as well☺️
I think Canadians indeed need to vote by the feet( move out of the Canada ) to force the government correct its urgent mistakes . that's a best way to save Canada. a lot of countries are now doing that the same way.
Great sharing Alina! I wish you good luck. You will find a nice place where to live and enjoy beautiful days with your family. Thank you for sharing 🍀💕🪻
As a Canadian born and raised in Vancouver island, I appreciate hearing your story. While I support YOUR decision to leave Canada, I can't imagine that feeling in myself. Rather, I would only be able to temporarily leave Canada (for a year or two, or for a few seasons of a year). To give you some context so you know I have some leg to stand on when I tell you this, I have travelled to almost 60 countries on earth and lived in these countries: (Canada, Australia, Norway, Germany, Austria, Spain, Chile). There are only 5 countries I am yet to visit in Europe. I speak 3 languages and have spent my life connecting with cultures and people from all walks of life. I did my masters degree in Spain (International Business) and can still give you an honest description of the things I loved and disliked from every country I have been to. I now work as a financial planner in British Columbia, and I am so thankful for the chance to help those in this country-- I too recognize the privilege to be able to call Canada and the lessons I have been given home. When I critique my home, it is not from a lack of appreciation, but from the perspective of how can we enrich our lives from those cultures that are doing X better.
Do I miss the beautiful food I could buy and experience in Barcelona Spain? Yes.
Do I miss the mountains and the wonderful pedestrian streets of Innsbruck Austria? Yes.
Do I miss the rich culture of Latin America and standing on the tables as Chile won the Copa America? Yes.
Do I miss the organization of public transport in nearly every other country I have been to? Yes.
Do I miss the never ending beaches of Australia? Yes.
Do I miss the the tangible experiences of every place I have lived and travelled? Yes.
Now, even with that said, I can tell you with certainty, because of the person I am, that I will never leave Canada permanently and that life here on Vancouver Island Canada is truly the best on earth. I could immediately name a dozen problems with my life in Canada, but they pale in comparison to what you can appreciate about BC Canada. The life I have created here is almost impossible to re-create anywhere else on earth.
My only take away for anyone wanting to live abroad or leave Canada would be this:
When you talk about living abroad, do you ever consider the 'grass is greener on the other side' concept?
When you talk about living abroad, how important is social connection to you and what types of contact fill your social bucket?
How important is recreation, activities and nature?
How do you feel about leaving your support system (& potentially in your language behind?)
Do you not expect hard times living in a new culture and place?
Have you spent extended time in the country you're considering?
Have you thoroughly researched your job market?
Think about what life you want to create in the place you want to create it. Don't fall for someone else's desires, which could very well be the fake green grass on the other side of the fence.
Never been to the island, but Alina's show does present it as one of the prettiest places in Canada.
I, my sister, daughter and granddaughter were on the Island visiting my other sister, who lives in Sidney, for 2 weeks at the beginning of July. Had a fantastic time and especially enjoyed the summer weather as compared to what we had been having in Ottawa this year (high heat and humidex or thunder storms, heavy rain, or both). Sidney is a beautiful, walkable city. Could easily move there but the rest of my siblings and family are all here.
Balanced perspective
For sure. Your own personal contentment and social connections are super important when making a decision. Many people would not be happy living in a country different than the one they grew up in.
@@AlinaMcleod Been around the world 65 times Vancouver Island is the BEST :)
Great and well-researched video! We drove on a long term visa for 2 years in Portugal 🇵🇹 on our US Driver’s licenses… just renting a car occasionally when we needed one. We learned the local metro/rail/bus system and rarely needed a car. Uber also filled in a few gaps. Good luck Alina!
Beautiful princess as you are Alina should always be welcomed with the open arms anywhere you go.
Excellent information. I’m considering becoming non resident in Canada. Lots of research has been done and this was helpful as well
I just retired and I'm moving to Cambodia for a couple of years, figuring out the tax situation has been a real struggle. Two consultations with a tax expert, two requests sent to the CRA, and it's still not 100% clear... You can keep your RRSP and TFSA here, but the withholding tax on the RRSP is hefty (TFSA still not taxable), unless you have a lower income and then you can ask for a tax reduction according to your revenue (Form NR5). In this case you do need to file taxes in Canada even if you're a non resident. It's no longer the 60s when the boomers could just pack their bags and move wherever they felt like it 😂
www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/non-resident-tax-calculator-disclaimer.html
you are wrong about TFSA
Yeah that’s the tricky thing that I heard about some SEA countries, getting full tax residency isn’t so clear cut.
The complicated yet poorly explained tax law of Canada is one major reason to deter people from living in Canada.
I think they still include (just include and not to be taxed) your overseas income when calculating your tax owing from RRSP withdraw in Canada right?
@@clementcle130 I retired, so I won't have foreign income. I don't know how it works if you have foreign income on top of RRIF withdrawals.
@@dominiquetheeasyminimalist Income from overseas are mostly taxed as if earned inland, except for some minor countries which has specific terms in tax treaty with Canada.
I endorse your decision. As a someone who dreams of living abroad, I totally understand why you choose that lifestyle and nobody deserves to judge you. Actually, living abroad itself is a big challenge and not everybody has a capacity to do it. It requires quite a big courage. I do believe that it's worth trying while we live only one life and whether it's successful or not, the experience will be a valuable asset for you. Additionally, I think it's a good choice as current western world is heading to a wrong direction.
Sadly for US citizenship you will be taxed does not matter where you live. 😐
Yeah that is tricky.
that's only if you make over 120k usd a year otherwise you don't get taxed. Your earnings need to stick below that figure you will be fine.
Alina I found this video so informative. There is so much to consider when taking this step but it looks like you have put all of the right thought into it. Again I am wishing you all of the best!
Glad it was helpful and thank you so much!
Your points are excellent!!
Alina, I’ve lived abroad half my life, and just returned to Canada, and the only regret I have is coming back. Congratulations on your upcoming move to Eastern Europe. After experiencing over 100 countries, I did NOT return to Canada to learn Hindi or Urdu in our now domestic ghettos.
It will only get worse, the streets will reek of curry and poop, and the crime rate will continue to skyrocket as long as Trudeau refuses to deport the Pajeets.
so what country do you prefer?
1st option and second country option can you share please
so what eastern europe can you share i hv no objection your preference if you are happy im happy for you too what country please
I am guessing eastern European countries like Romania & Georgia.
Enjoy your life to the fullest! Do what you think is right! Best wishes!
That takes a lot of courage. I wish you the best. ❤
Thank you!
Alina, follow your heart. You are correct about not knowing future. Life is always about change. You are a very intelligent person. You also have many skills. I believe that you will thrive in your future. Best of luck to you on your next adventure.
Hi Alina ! Good Luck & Congratulations on your decision to move to Eastern Europe. Both Romania & Bulgaria have lots of appeal to me ! I'm fortunate that I have citizenship in both England & The US & may soon leave the states for England & know I can do it without difficulty. Happy Autumn 😊
The new Russian programme allows foreigners to get a temporary three year residency permit with the option to apply for permanent residency after that period . Its a good way to see if living there is a good fit for you because the stringent requirements to be familiar with the Russian laws, customs and language are waived. They now have more details of what’s involved and learn them before you move there or for that matter, to any eastern European country offering a similar residency programme.
As history proved it, Russia offers residency even to people who do not want it. :-D
@@DukeOfTheYard The Soviet Union was like the old Cosa Nostra: you could join but you could never leave.
@@DukeOfTheYard You wish
@@dmitrycherepov3242 No. I don't. :-D
I have heard so many negative comments about leaving Canada too. The biggest ones were the loss of healthcare and the cost of capitol gains costs. Do you have to have residency? Can you just keep moving around and have no home base? I think I’d rather set up in a country for 30-90 days or the max allowed with a visitor visa. Setting up a house is daunting to me. Staying in furnished flats, house sitting or even hotels is more appealing.
You could try, but it's not as safe of a bet as claiming residency elsewhere and setting up a new home. There's some rare examples of people who have said they've been able to get away with 'being a resident of nowhere' but if you're from a high tax country, it's unlikely. If you're not paying taxes and have a home set up somewhere else, it will likely default to your citizenship since you still have the most ties there by simply being a passport holder. You can move around all you want (though you may lose Canadian healthcare if it's for too long), as long as you're paying Canadian taxes, they probably won't ask questions.
I don’t know about Canada, but 1 in 3 men in America will have cancer in their life time. To be able to access to affordable AND most advanced medical service is always the top priority determining where I want to live. I have dual US and UK nationalities and enjoy traveling to different countries for vacation but would never consider living permanently outside the United States. Please make sure you will not lose Canadian medical services before you choose to become a non-resident Canadian citizen.
great point, it's only going to increase
Yes, very important to consider where you can receive the healthcare you need. But I will also say to consider in which country are you living a healthier life where you are less likely to get those diseases in the first place.
Bahaha, Canadian health care system
When I returned to Ontario after nearly 19 years overseas, I purchased private health insurance to cover me for the first 3 months, which is how long it takes to re-establish residency, and then I was covered again by the public system.
@@jiminhartReally?Three months seems to be a very short time to re-establish residency. Can private insurance companies deny you an insurance policy due to pre-existing conditions? Here in the United States, thanks to the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies can no longer deny you an insurance policy due to pre-existing conditions. That’s the key point.
Alina - Great job on explaining the top 10 issues for future CDN expansion to consider. You are spot on!
To not have to live under Trudeau and the liberal party and anyone who voted for them will be well worth it. ❤
OK Moron
lol dude. you should see someone about those anger issues. not healthy
@@klnrklnr4433 Not really angry. I’m more just resigned to it all. It is what it is. We live in a democracy…that’s what the people chose…I accept that…true that I don’t like it but that’s the way it is.
I’m tired of it here so I am choosing to leave…I believe it’s my right to go where I am treated best and where I will be happiest.
I really like your thorough analysis of the situation. Well done Alina, super curious about your choice ❤
She does not understand the difference between OAS and CPP. Also canadian international driving permit is only valid for a year. These two gaffs make me doubt everything else she's talking aboout. The only advise I can trust here is "consult with a tax professional". Time well wasted.
Great videos on the channel! Just moved to Canada (temporarily) from Europe. It's a big life decision you've made and definitely helps to have all things considered. Wish you the best of luck with wherever you're moving to ☺👍
Thank you so much and welcome!
We’re all trying to leave
yea the issue is where to go ..
@@StevenJeffrey-h2g It's actually where to get a job for most people.
@@StevenJeffrey-h2g Puerto Vallarta Mexico
Last one out has to turn out the light. 💡
Important info , thank you .
I think you could be the best tutorial video maker for all Canadians about everything , such a what difference between rules of each provinces , a driver license or buy a land etc .
Thank you, glad it was helpful!
Good information 👍
Following with great interest. Myself living in Sweden is also considering a new life somewhere else. Just need the courage to do it. You know what you have, but not what you get.
Hi Alina! This is such an exciting topic and I feel very excited for you as you embark on this new path and journey. I also left Canada after winning a Diversity Visa lottery draw in 1997, and getting a Green Card. I am now a US Citizen but also have a Canadian passport and some financial ties to Canada with an active checking account that I regularly get survivors benefits deposited from Canada Pension. My brother, who lives in Victoria, was just asking me today if I can get 2 pensions? I doubt this, but it's worth looking into. I never really liked living in Canada and I definitely would like it less now, especially with the high taxes, rent, unforgiving climate, and cost of living. In addition, Canada has a much different culture now from when I was growing up in the 70's. I have been following your channel and have seen every one of your videos and I am excited for you because it makes so much sense for you to get out of Dodge and move. Please don't feel any regret. You are moving for the right reasons and you have no obligation to be tied down to Canada's high tax country. I can't tell you how exciting it was for me to move to the USA. There is so much more opportunities here than Canada in terms of employment, climate, choices to live, and much more. I love how well you have done your research. Bon Voyage! Love and Light!
That’s awesome, good for you!
Well, I want to go the opposite way. Leaving the UK for Canada looks much more promising for a better future. I've had it with this country, it's depressing as it gets. Actually, that's a lie, it will get much, much worse.
Hahahaha you are making a huge mistake. Have fun!
@@mencantbewomen Unlike Cuba or North Korea, nobody will try to stop you from leaving!
haha chinada is the worst, can't wait to figure a way out of this shithole
Bad idea go somewhere else. My parents moved here from the UK when I was young, and I feel like my life would have been better if they didn't. Average house in this country is now 1M+ you can't have a life here.
You may want to reconsider that. I know people from the UK who moved here and they said the same thing that happened in their home country is happening in Canada and while I hear UK has stabilized.. Canada is a whole mess and it’s not going to be corrected for decades
I did the same. I lived in London for 5 years, and some other countries but after I've made my calculatuion I understod that I need to work for 30 years to afford real estate that I can buy just for a year at home, as already I had two. After I lived in shared home and got robed 3 times and calculated how much I save I saw that actually I save twice less. A year ago I returned and bought a village house here in Bulgaria for 33.5 thousand euros and is brand new and I am happy. There are loads of crap options, but if a person search for a bit longer can find a good one. Also there are Turkish companies that can build a brand new home for 42-45 thousand euro including the land and interior and all needed for 2-3-4 months. At least now I can go here without thinking about rents etc as when I was in the UK and i feel safer. Now I regret a bit, because I see how my schoolmates who stayed are 10 years in front of me and I had the not as good as it looks life in London meanwhile. In the cities the prices are like twice, but now there is a bouble and I think in 2-3 years the pricecs in Bulgaria could decrease with like 30% maybe, who knows.
Canada is frozen prison, once you move there you're stuck
Sounds to me like you've done your homework ... And nothing is written in stone ...so all the best Alina ...enjoy the ride!
Thank you very much!
I moved to Canada in 2014, and I love this country. I can't think of a reason to leave this beautiful country. ❤ 🇨🇦
How about WINTER and 40 below temperatures?
How about Trudeau and woke people?
@@lukei6255You can go to China and suffer with Xi.
@lukei6255 I don't like Trudeau. But Canada has the capacity to undo his wrong policies. Together, we can make a brighter further.
@johngreydanus2033 Well, you can never find haven on earth. There is no perfect place. Canada has harsh winters, but looking at the full half of the glass, I can ignore the cold.
You can do two things: Live full-time outside of Canada in a tax-treaty country and receive a flat tax on all Canadian-sourced income of only 15%. Or, you can live part-time outside of Canada and keep your connections and benefits within Canada as you age. To become a non-resident, you have to live an entire year outside of Canada before claiming non-residency, and depending on when you dispose of assets (usually well before you become non-resident), you won't be subject to an FU tax (capital gains). Assets not subject to the FU tax are Primary home, RRSP/FHSA/TFSA/RESP/LIRA/etc. The test of whether you are a non-resident is tied to the country, such as accounts and family. However, accounts are easy to close, and family is not necessarily the test; it's just one thing of several. Practically speaking, you can either turn your primary house into a business (rental) or sell it some years before leaving Canada. Consider that even if you are subject to some FU tax, if you plan it correctly, you can reside in a territorial tax jurisdiction, set up your investments in a tax-free location, and earn back in a few years the money Canada stole from you because you didn't enjoy their taxes. Is it worth it to leave? Sure, because you can live at far less cost, your money will go much further, especially with lower taxation. If you remain in Canada, consider making yourself and your assets tax efficient: RRSP/TFSA/FHSA and Eligible Dividends, which will lower your taxes. It's all about quality of life, so remember, as you age, you must ensure safety, security, and available quality health and dental.
You will never regret this, I am ready to renounce my Canadian citizenship and leave for good. Canada is not a livable country thanks to Trudope government
You don't have to renounce, that's a bit drastic, I left in 1971 when I was 20, never went back, and they still pay me a bit of pension money every month.
So what other citizenship do u hold?
@@ericyuan9718 Australian, when I applied for pension, they sent me the forms for Canada, and would not process anything about Australian pension until they knew my benefit. They take it into account as foreign pension but at $90 moth, it does not affect Aussie pension.
Please renounce your citizenship. You do you. Your hate for Trudeau justifies leaving!
Sending you my best vibes and best of luck in your choices:) as per the adapting to where you are living I think everyone should make an effort to learn the place they are in, you won’t get it right right away or perfect. Makes you less of a douche and not like this Brit lady I met in Spain who basically lives in an enclave, speaks zero Spanish and treats locals like the help AND then complains about migrants in the UK without missing a beat. There is so much to learn an embrace with an open mind.
Wherever you go, you can't run away from your demons. Some people are happy wherever they are. Some not.
True enough but many people move for practical reasons, not personal demons lol.
You can run away from terrible governments though.
I pray that you do well in your new venture and steps in your life. We love you and we wish you the very best. We are planning on doing the same in the future. Take care and be blessed and ignore the haters.
Thank you so much! 😊
You are a Canadian. Always will be. Where ever you live. That is a constant. And we always welcome our people back fullstop Or come and get you. I was born In The USA. Raised and lived in Canada all of my life. I have both. I love the people in both countries.
Beautiful people
Actually, there is a pdf file you can download and renounce Canadian citizenship, so not a constant.
To be honest I am Canadian I am conflicted on this issue. I know a family member that lives in a third world country on the cheap and jumps on a plane back to Canada to get on the waiting list for surgery (hip replacement). Even though he doesn't live here anymore he will try to get OAS and sent his kid to U of T because she is a dual citizen, but they have no plans to make Canada their home. I feel like I'm being short-changed on my taxes.
@@Tdot6 Okay, so you're upset about something that might happen in the future. Do you really think he will benefit that much after he answers all the questions on the application form? Remember, his passport tells them how long he has been out of country, and tax office will show lack of contributions.
Great video. Great channel. Regarding a drivers licence. You can get a international drivers licence from any CAA branch in Canada. It's good for most countries. Valid for one year.
Can we be honest here for just a tiny little bit! as far as I can tell, the ONLY real reason you are leaving Canada or ANY country is because you are self employ making money on "internet", you don't feel you should "waste" a lot of your income paying tax on service you don't need or use since you stay there only partly and your job does not require you to be there! This is EXACTLY same reason really wealthy person want to move to place like Monaco, Liechtenstein or Cayman Islands! it is call Wealth Migration, and you are not the first or the 100k individual who do so! there is no reason to BASH Canada just because it doesn't fit your want or need! might I suggest Gibraltar!!
if you have traveled to other countries, quality of life is much, much better
also, since taxes are approaching 70%, that is taking 2/3 of what you make- absolute insanity. Then the gov gives it to 'new immigrants' whom they hope will take the jobs no one wants like tim hortons . Go read the Great Replacement Theory .
Thanks Alina, very good video
Most people who leave Canada probably haven't explored other parts of the country. Canada has more geographic, economic, provincial diversity than any other country
You forgot weather, 100% of Canada has WINTER
@@johngreydanus2033 Vancouver Island and Vancouver area has basically no winter. And if and when it gets too cold for you for a few days then do like I do and go on a road trip to Nevada or California. I don’t like flying but others can take a week in Mexico instead
@@tgoodson2 Not everyone can live around Vancouver, or wants too, and Mexico is the last place I would ever go visit, some Australians killed there recently for no reason whatsoever.
When I was a young guy I loved skiing and playing hockey and there is no better place for those Sports then Canada. However now that I'm old I tend to go where there's warmer weather and in the summer I go where there's cooler weather which means northern Canada
Exiting choices you’re making! And you are absolutely right that if you choose to live outside your home country you should work hard to learn the local language. It makes all the difference in the world to be able to speak the language including showing respect to your new home.
I was born and raised in the US and became dual national some years ago after living and working in an EU/EEA country. I also lived in several other countries outside the EU/EEA before that. I’ve never regretted any of it no matter how many challenges or setbacks came up along the way and I still get giddy with excitement when I ponder that I can now live/work/study free and clear in all EU/EEA countries, which I’m in fact currently doing as I no longer live in either of my countries of citizenship.
So you weren't born here, you're family didn't want to give up their original citizenship. And now you're planning to move... but you want a Canadian pension and to keep our passport rights? Talk about spitting in our face.
You're a very rude person
@@sscapture calling it as I see it.
Incorrect. You get pension based on how much you contributed during your working years. If you are an immigrant, you have worked less in Canada and have had less taken out from your pay check. So at 65 you will receive less, until your death, compared to Canadian who started contributing at 18 or so.
@@devdroid9606 shouldn't get shit. Especially if you're not in the country.
Canada built a very stupid system. Thank yourself and fellow voters.
My husband and I are are planning on moving to Serbia from Canada within the next few years. We are working on seeing how we can obtain permanent residency and citizenship in Serbia and are trying to plan out all of the logistical details in advance to make the transition easier. After evaluating the current situation in Canada including the very high costs of housing and living we have decided that this is the right decision for us.