Relocation guide · 2026
Moving from Australia to Canada 🇨🇦
High quality of life, universal healthcare, strong economy. Federal + provincial taxes.
The tax picture
Stay in Australia
$48,000
Estimated tax on $150,000
Move to Canada
53.5% top rate
Local tax estimate
Cost of living
-4%
vs. Australia (Numbeo-style index)
Local tax regime
Canada has top personal income tax around 53.5%, capital gains ~26.75%, VAT/GST ~13%. How much you actually pay depends on residency status and income type.
Residency / visa
Canada offers work, investment, and retirement residency routes. Requirements vary — the AI planner can map the best path for you.
What still applies (Australia)
Ceasing Australian tax residency triggers CGT event I1: you are deemed to have disposed of most non-taxable-Australian-property assets at market value, unless you elect to defer the gain until actual sale. Losing the main-residence exemption as a foreign resident is a common and expensive surprise. Australia keeps taxing Australian-source income at non-resident rates, which start at the first dollar with no tax-free threshold. Compulsory HELP/HECS repayments continue based on worldwide income. Check the Australia–Canada tax treaty for withholding rates.
At a glance
North America · currency CAD · cost-of-living index 72 (NYC ≈ 100).
All figures are illustrative estimates for tax year 2026 and do not constitute tax advice. Verify with a qualified expat CPA.
Frequently asked questions
How much tax could I save moving from Australia to Canada?
Savings depend heavily on your income, income type, and how you structure residency. Run your own numbers in the calculator and ask the AI planner for a tailored estimate.
How do I stop being taxed by Australia after moving to Canada?
Ceasing Australian tax residency triggers CGT event I1: you are deemed to have disposed of most non-taxable-Australian-property assets at market value, unless you elect to defer the gain until actual sale. Losing the main-residence exemption as a foreign resident is a common and expensive surprise. Australia keeps taxing Australian-source income at non-resident rates, which start at the first dollar with no tax-free threshold. Compulsory HELP/HECS repayments continue based on worldwide income.
What do I need to report to Australia after I leave?
Notify the ATO of your departure date, report worldwide income for the resident part of the year, and keep declaring your worldwide income for HELP purposes.
What visa do I need to live in Canada?
Canada offers several residency routes depending on whether you work remotely, invest, or retire. Ask the AI planner for the path that fits your circumstances.
Is Canada cheaper than Australia?
Canada has a cost-of-living index of about 72 (Numbeo-style, where New York ≈ 100). Compare it directly with other destinations on the Compare page.
Know someone considering the same move?
Share this guide with your partner or accountant.