As the recent HSBC International Explorer survey of over 2000 expats across four continents who have made that choice shows, Canada is one of the easiest countries in which to settle.
Martin Spurling, CEO for HSBC Bank International and Head of HSBC Offshore Islands commented in a recent release: "Canada is the most welcoming country to expats, with almost all (95%) of respondents claiming that they found it easy to make friends with the locals and fit into the community. The survey also highlighted the buying experience."
"Canada is regularly listed by the United Nations as one of the 10 best places in the world to live and has featured again in A Place in the Sun's Top 20 locations to buy property for 2008/09" says John Prior, Principal of Undiscovered Properties. "It is also interesting to see the measures by which the Canadian government are making things easier for those looking to relocate to Canada with figures showing that as well as Canada being a popular lifestyle location, it is actively seeking people to re-locate to the nation with skilled migrant expected to account for 100% of workforce growth by 2011."
An extension of the already popular Canadian work permit is all part of the 'Action Plan for Faster Immigration'. According to the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, "On 15th December 2008 we announced that professionals seeking to work in Canada under the North America Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) can now receive permits up to three years as previously workers were required to renew their permits every 12 months. Lawyers, doctors, dentists and teachers as well as other skilled workers are all needed and this extension will greatly benefit the Canadian economy by helping ensure greater continuity and stability for both employers and workers."
Prior concludes: "We have some stunning four season properties available in the Quebec province which is rapidly becoming a top choice for purchasing property. Close to the city of Montreal with employment opportunities available for both French and English speakers, the area offers an imitable blend of history, heritage, tourism appeal, culture and style – appealing aspects for visitors and investors alike."
"As well as those looking to use the homes themselves, many buyers are purchasing properties speculatively, looking to rent out their luxury log homes to tourists and so far owners haven't been disappointed" continues Prior. "Rental demand has increased every month to the point where we were fully booked in the height of the summer and are also sold out twice over for Christmas / New Year. We estimate over 60% occupancy for next year based on the trends we have seen."
