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Moving to Ottawa, Canada

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Apr 21, 2023

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Ottawa, Canada for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and excellent quality of life. Ottawa is a safe and welcoming city with a wide range of activities and attractions, from its many museums and galleries to its outdoor activities and festivals. Expats will find plenty of opportunities to explore the city and its surroundings, as well as to make new friends and connections. Before moving to Ottawa, it is important to be aware of the city's climate, which can be quite cold in the winter months. It is also important to research the cost of living in Ottawa, as it is higher than in many other Canadian cities. Additionally, expats should be aware of the city's language requirements, as English is the primary language spoken in Ottawa. Finally, expats should be prepared to obtain a work permit or visa in order to work in Canada.

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What do I need to know before moving to Ottawa?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Ottawa, they said:

"Ottawa is the capital of Canada and is a great place to live for expats. It is a bilingual city, with both English and French being spoken. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of festivals, museums, and galleries to explore. The cost of living in Ottawa is relatively low compared to other major Canadian cities, making it an attractive option for expats. The city is also well-connected, with an extensive public transportation system and easy access to the rest of Canada and the United States. Expats should also be aware of the cold winters in Ottawa, with temperatures often dropping below freezing," remarked one expat who made the move to Ottawa.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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