moving to Toronto

[tanmu82]

Hi, my Dh has been offered a job in Toronto. Can anyone offer advice on things like how long the visa/immigration process is likely to take, best areas/schools, how cost of living compares to SE England - basically anything that could make it all a little less overwhelming!

We have 3 dcs - almost 8yr old ds, 6 yr old dd and 6 mo dd

thanks!

Hi! How exciting for you all!

We've did a year out there with DHs work. Very topline thoughts for you (can go into more detail depending on your answers!):

Visa/immigration was quick for us although pretty much done by DHs company, so the process started mid April and we moved there 3 months later with all paperwork in place.

Where to move to isn't easy to answer - where is DH going to be working (downtown?), do you prefer to live in the city or country? how far is DH prepared to commute each day? what is your budget for renting etc? What schooling do you want for your DCs (private/public)?

Without a doubt living is more expensive, when an employee does an assignment abroad, DHs company benchmarks cost of living and we got an extra allowance because Canada is more expensive.

I have so much I could talk to you about living over there, both pros and cons!

Hi hollybolly thanks for responding! I have family in Mississauga who we will stay with initially whilst trying to find somewhere to rent. Our rental budget will be approx 1400 CAD pcm. Dh will be working in the Downtown area of Toronto and, as long as the transport links are good, is prepared to commute up to an hour each way.

I want the DCs in the best public school possible - if they do French Immersion, all the better.....

Please do tell all the pro's and cons!! What would be a reasonable wage for us to live off comfortably (as in odd meals out, odd weekend away, couple of after school activities, flights home once per year) How easy would it be for me to get a job? How easy was it for your DC/s to settle in?

Thanks so much!