Are you considering moving to the UK from Canada?
Many Canadian expats decide to make the journey home for numerous reasons, despite the positive experience of living a rewarding life in Canada.
However, returning to the UK after living in Canada can feel like stepping into a familiar place that’s somehow changed.
While you may remember the roads, the accents, and the weather, the UK may have evolved in ways you didn’t expect, from the rise of contactless payments to shifting attitudes in politics and culture.
And of course, you’ve changed too. You might view things differently after your time abroad, and that’s perfectly natural.
Whether you’re returning for family, work, or retirement, this move is about more than geography, a successful return is all about reintegration.
At Barnes of Lincoln, we understand the emotional and practical complexities of relocating back home.
With decades of experience in international removals, our friendly team offers tailored moving services to help make your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.
We’ll handle the logistics while you focus on settling in and rediscovering what makes life in the UK special.
Planning the Big Move: A Step-by-Step Return
Organising an international move from Canada to the UK involves careful planning, so starting early is wise.
Begin by sorting out essential documents, passports, visas (if needed), and any work, healthcare, or housing paperwork.
Next, consider how many of your belongings you’re taking back. Will you be shipping everything, or downsizing and storing some items?
This is where Barnes of Lincoln can relieve your stress. We offer complete international removal packages, including professional packing, customs assistance, secure storage, and insurance cover for peace of mind.
We’re also happy to provide you with a free, no-obligation quote.
Don’t forget to research customs restrictions, especially for items like alcohol, electronics, and certain foodstuffs.
UK import customs information can be found on the official government site.
We recommend creating a clear timeline with milestones, so everything stays on track ahead of your departure date.
What’s Changed Since You Left? A Glance at Modern UK Life
Even if you’ve only been away a few years, returning to the UK can feel like entering a slightly different version of what you remember.
Some major changes have occurred in recent years, from Brexit-related regulations to advancements in technology and a shift in how people work, shop, and socialise.
Remote and hybrid working are now more common than ever, with many industries offering flexible job structures.
Digital banking, NHS app appointments, and mobile pay are also part of everyday life.
Socially, towns and cities have become more diverse, with increased focus on mental health awareness, green living, and sustainability.
On a practical note, public services like councils and GPs now operate differently in many areas, so once you know where you will be living, it’s worth checking local authority websites to stay current.
For instance, council tax bands or parking regulations might have changed since you last lived in the UK.
Staying informed can help reduce frustration and smooth your transition.
Registering for Healthcare and Public Services
Re-registering with the NHS is one of the first things to tick off your list.
The UK’s publicly funded healthcare system allows permanent residents to access most medical care for free at the point of use.
To do this, you’ll need to register with a local GP practice, which you can search for here: https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp.
You’ll also want to ensure your National Insurance number is active, as it’s used for tax, pension, and benefit purposes. If you’ve been gone a while, you may need to reapply or update HMRC of your status.
Other essentials include registering for council tax, setting up utility bills, and checking your eligibility for benefits or state pensions.
Here again, the UK Government’s returning to the UK guide is a good starting point.
Bringing Your Career Home: Re-Entering the UK Job Market
Rejoining the UK workforce can be daunting if your recent experience has been primarily Canadian for some years.
However, your international exposure can give you a competitive edge, especially if you’re in sectors such as education, IT, healthcare, finance, or engineering.
You can start the process by tailoring your CV to meet UK employer expectations.
This often means simplifying formatting, using British English, and clarifying transferable skills. Some very helpful websites for this purpose, such as myperfectCV, also exist.
Online employment platforms like Reed and Indeed and are excellent for job searches, while LinkedIn is key for networking.
You may need to convert professional qualifications.
The UK National Information Centre (UK ENIC, previously UK NARIC) is the official agency that recognises and compares international qualifications and skills.
Alternatively, many local colleges and online platforms offer affordable or free courses if you’re looking to retrain.
Returning citizens may also be eligible for help through the Jobcentre Plus Restart. You may also qualify for Jobseeker’s Allowance while searching for a new UK job.
There are plenty of avenues to explore upon your return home to get you back into employment as soon as possible.
Managing Your Money: Banking, Tax, and Pensions
Moving countries brings with it some financial complexities, especially regarding pensions, banking, and taxes.
If you had a UK bank account before leaving, you may have been able to reactivate it. If not, opening a new one is straightforward with major banks like HSBC, Barclays, or Lloyds.
You’ll need proof of ID and UK address.
If you received a Canadian pension or have a private scheme, you can transfer your funds to a UK-approved QROPS (Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme).
Consult a specialist financial advisor for cross-border pension transfers, as tax implications vary.
HMRC may again consider you a UK tax resident upon your return. For accurate guidance, use the Statutory Residence Test tool. You will also want to notify the Canadian Revenue Agency of your departure.
Barnes of Lincoln recommends getting tax advice before you move to avoid surprise liabilities when you arrive.
Schooling and Childcare in the UK: What to Expect
If you’re returning with children, researching schools will be a top priority.
The UK has various education options, including state schools (free), faith schools, academies, and private schools.
Catchment areas are crucial for admission to popular schools, so choosing your new address wisely is important.
Use this government tool to find schools in your chosen area: https://www.gov.uk/find-school-in-england. OFSTED reports are also useful for assessing a school’s quality.
For younger children, nurseries and childminders can fill the gap before starting school.
Some 3- and 4-year-olds now qualify for up to 30 hours of free childcare a week, check if you are eligible.
Term dates, curriculum content, and grading systems may differ from what your children are used to in Canada.
Helping them settle in socially is just as important, many schools have systems in place offering buddy systems or pastoral support for returning expat families.
Plus, if your child has never lived in the UK, it is going to be a massive change for them. Relocating home is always stressful for children, but even more so when moving country.
Help them to prepare for the move. Talking about it is a great way for them to share their feelings and for you to understand their emotions. Above all, patience is key, it will take time for them (and you) to re-settle back in the UK.
Settling into a New Home: Renting or Buying Property
Finding somewhere to live is one of the biggest decisions when moving back.
Many returnees choose to rent initially while getting reacquainted with the housing market.
According to the Office of National Statistics, in 2025, the average UK house price is at £268,000. Most lenders require a 10% deposit (£27,720) and charge a 4.5% mortgage interest rate, based on these calculations, your monthly repayments over 30 years would be around £1,218.
Rental contracts in the UK typically last 6 or 12 months, and you’ll need references and a deposit. Websites like Rightmove or Zoopla can help you browse listings and understand the cost of rents and purchase prices in your chosen area.
If you’re buying, be prepared for high demand in popular areas.
It’s wise to get a mortgage agreement in principle before viewing properties. Local estate agents can also offer insight into neighbourhoods.
Barnes of Lincoln can help coordinate your removals once you’ve secured a property, whether you’re heading to a sleepy village or a bustling city. Our experienced team will take care of packing, transport, and even storage if you’re between homes.
If you need temporary storage for some or all of your belongings, Barnes of Lincoln has comprehensive storage options available should you need it, until you are ready to receive all your effects.
Getting Around: UK Transport Tips for Returnees
The UK has an extensive public transport network, especially in cities.
Trains, buses, trams, and the London Underground offer reliable ways to travel, though they can be costly without a travel pass.
Returnees should look into buying a railcard. For example, the 16–25 Railcard or Two Together Railcard offers numerous savings for regular and not so regular rail users.
Driving is another option, especially in rural areas.
If your Canadian licence has expired, you may need to reapply for a UK one.
The DVLA allows Canadian licences to be exchanged for a British licence within 12 months of your return:
Fuel prices and insurance costs are generally higher than in Canada, so budgeting is key.
And pay close attention to parking regulations. In recent years they have become strict in towns and cities, check local council rules to avoid fines.
Apps like Citymapper, Trainline, and Google Maps make planning journeys simple whether you’re on foot, bike, or train.
Rebuilding Social Circles and a Sense of Community
One of the biggest emotional adjustments for returning expats is rebuilding friendships and community ties.
You might find your old social networks have shifted or dispersed. Don’t worry, many returnees feel the same way.
Start by reconnecting with family and close friends and explore ways to meet new people.
Joining hobby groups, gyms, local clubs, or volunteering schemes can help you feel rooted again. Apps like Meetup or local Facebook groups are excellent for finding events near you.
If you’ve returned with children, school gates and after-school clubs offer social opportunities for both parents and kids.
Community centres and libraries often post noticeboards with local happenings, from yoga sessions to walking groups.
Feeling like you truly belong again takes time, but by putting yourself out there and saying “yes” to new opportunities, you’ll rebuild a social circle in no time.
Moving to the UK from Canada with Barnes of Lincoln
Relocating from Canada to the UK is a big move, both emotionally and practically.
At Barnes of Lincoln, we’ve helped countless families move out of the UK and return home with confidence, care, and efficiency.
Whether you’re heading to Lincolnshire, London, or the Scottish Highlands, we’ll tailor your move to suit your timeline, budget, and needs.
From expert packing and customs support to short-term storage and door-to-door transport, we’ve got every stage of your move covered.
With us, you’re not just booking a removals company, you’re gaining a partner in your journey back home.
Plus, with Barnes of Lincoln having respected trade associations with industry regulators like FIDI, BAR, and OMNI, we are regularly audited to ensure we meet strict industry standards ensuring quality and professionalism every step of the way.
Contact Barnes of Lincoln today for a free quote or to learn more.
Oh, and welcome back!
