Relocating to Canada as a GP as a British Doctor: Housing, Schools & Family Tips

At Advantage Medical Staffing, we understand that relocating to another country is one of the most significant steps a doctor and their family can take. Canada is increasingly becoming a destination of choice for British-trained GPs, offering both professional reward and an enviable lifestyle. With our expertise in guiding doctors through the transition, we have seen first-hand how exciting and fulfilling the move can be. In this blog, we share our insights on securing GP jobs in Canada, and offer practical guidance on housing, schools, and family life.

Why Canada Appeals to British GPs

Canada continues to experience a strong demand for family physicians, creating a wealth of opportunities for those exploring GP jobs in Canada. Competitive salaries, relocation packages, and in some regions, financial incentives are among the benefits awaiting doctors. Beyond the professional advantages, Canada offers an excellent work-life balance, allowing GPs to dedicate more time to patient care and to their own families.

What sets Canada apart is the combination of professional opportunity with lifestyle benefits: safe communities, a welcoming culture, and some of the most beautiful natural surroundings in the world. As a recruitment agency run by doctors, we know just how important these factors are when deciding to relocate with a family.

Navigating Licensing and Immigration

One of the most important stages of relocation is securing the correct medical licence. Healthcare in Canada is regulated at provincial level, which means licensing requirements vary depending on where you practise. In most cases, British GPs will need to work with the Medical Council of Canada, and may be required to complete additional examinations. Each provincial College of Physicians and Surgeons sets its own guidelines, so it is vital to prepare in advance.

Immigration is another key step, with several pathways available. Many doctors enter through the Express Entry system, while others benefit from Provincial Nominee Programmes designed specifically to attract healthcare professionals. Some GPs begin with a temporary work permit tied to a job offer before transitioning to permanent residency. These processes can appear complex, but with our dedicated support, we help doctors and their families approach them with clarity and confidence.

Housing Considerations

Finding the right home is essential for a successful relocation. In Canada, the housing market offers a wide range of options, from apartments and townhouses in major cities to detached family homes in suburban or rural areas.

Large urban centres such as Toronto or Vancouver provide vibrant cultural amenities and excellent schooling, but at a higher cost. In smaller cities and rural communities, spacious homes are more affordable and incentives are often available for doctors relocating to the area. Many families choose to rent initially to familiarise themselves with local neighbourhoods and school catchments before purchasing a property.

We always encourage GPs to consider factors such as proximity to their practice, access to public transport, and availability of community amenities. For families, school catchment areas and community networks often prove as important as the property itself.

Schools and Education

For families moving to Canada, education is understandably a key priority. Canada’s school system enjoys an excellent international reputation, with free public schooling available up to Grade 12. Curricula differ between provinces, but overall standards are consistently high.

Parents can also explore French immersion or bilingual programmes, which are widely offered in many regions. For those seeking alternative options, private schools are available, offering smaller class sizes and specialised approaches.

When advising relocating families, we always recommend gathering children’s school records and transcripts well in advance, as this helps with a smooth enrolment process. We also encourage parents to involve children in extracurricular activities quickly, helping them make friends and settle into their new environment.

Supporting Families Beyond Work

Relocating is not only about a doctor’s career—it is about ensuring the whole family feels secure and supported. For partners, job opportunities vary depending on the chosen location, with larger cities providing more employment options. We encourage families to research local job markets early and use networks to identify potential opportunities.

Community integration is equally important. Joining parent groups, local clubs, and community organisations can provide a strong support network. Exploring the outdoors, attending cultural events, and embracing local traditions help families build a sense of belonging.

Healthcare access is straightforward once provincial health insurance is secured, though many new arrivals also arrange bridging private insurance. We guide families through these practical steps so they feel confident from the moment they arrive.

The Advantage-MS Difference

At Advantage Medical Staffing Ltd, we pride ourselves on providing a doctor-led, comprehensive recruitment service. We understand the licensing processes, immigration requirements, and relocation logistics because we have lived through them ourselves. Our role is not only to connect British GPs with rewarding positions in Canada but also to support families in every aspect of the move.

From assistance with licensing applications to advice on housing and schools, we are committed to making relocation as smooth and stress-free as possible. For us, it is about more than job placement—it is about helping families thrive in their new environment.

Our Reviews

One of the best reflections of our service comes directly from the doctors we have supported. Our Google My Business reviews consistently highlight our professionalism, efficiency, and dedication. Dr. Kundu recently described their experience with our recruiters Carmen and Dr Rowen as “absolutely amazing”, praising their patience and support throughout their interview and job offer process. Dr. Emmanuel shared that we were instrumental in connecting him with clinic owners in Ontario, while Dr. Ishaque noted how a daunting process was made simple thanks to Dr Rowen and our admin team. Omar Razek summed up his experience by calling us the “best recruiter”. These testimonials demonstrate our ongoing commitment to supporting doctors with honesty, clarity, and genuine care.

Final Thoughts

Relocating to Canada as a British GP is a life-changing decision, but one filled with opportunity. The combination of strong demand for doctors, excellent family living, and a welcoming culture makes Canada a natural choice. While licensing, immigration, housing, and education require careful planning, with the right guidance each stage becomes manageable.

At Advantage Medical Staffing Ltd, we are proud to play a role in helping doctors and their families make this transition successfully. For those considering GP jobs in Canada, we provide the expertise, support, and reassurance needed to embrace this exciting new chapter with confidence. Canada offers not just a career move, but a chance to create a fulfilling life for you and your family—and we are here to help you every step of the way.

Contact Us

If you are a British GP considering relocation to Canada, we would love to support you on this journey. Contact Advantage Medical Staffing today to learn more about current opportunities and how we can help make your move as smooth and successful as possible.