Military and Government Relocation Moving Guide for Ottawa

Ottawa is Canada's capital, home to the largest concentration of federal government workers and a significant military presence. Every year, thousands of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and federal employees are posted or transferred to the Ottawa–Gatineau region — many on tight timelines with specific relocation programs to navigate.

This guide covers what military and government personnel need to know about the moving process when relocating to Ottawa, from program logistics to local living considerations.

Posted to Ottawa? Get a free relocation moving quote from a team experienced in government and military moves.

Canadian Armed Forces: The IRP Process

What Is IRP?

The Integrated Relocation Program (IRP) is the relocation benefit program for CAF members and their families. It covers many moving-related expenses when you're posted to a new location.

How It Works (General Overview)

The IRP is administered through a third-party relocation service provider contracted by the Department of National Defence. As of recent years, this has been managed by companies like BGRS (Brookfield Global Relocation Services) or its successors.

Important: IRP policies, entitlements, and the administering company can change. Always verify current program details through your orderly room or the official DND/CAF relocation resources. This guide provides general orientation, not authoritative program details.

Key Steps in a Typical IRP Move

1. Receive your posting message — confirms your new location, reporting date, and other details
2. Contact your relocation coordinator — they'll explain your specific entitlements
3. Get moving quotes — the program typically requires multiple quotes from approved movers
4. Schedule your move — coordinate with the movers, your reporting date, and housing
5. Manage your HHT (House Hunting Trip) — the program may cover a trip to Ottawa to find housing before your move
6. Move and settle — the actual relocation, followed by claims and reimbursements

Choosing a Mover Under IRP

While the IRP program may have preferred or pre-approved moving companies, understanding the process helps:

• Movers may need to meet specific insurance and documentation standards
• You may have some choice in mover selection within program guidelines
• Peak-season moves (summer) should be booked as early as possible — Ottawa is a high-demand posting destination
• Ensure your mover can provide all documentation required for reimbursement

Federal Government Employee Relocations

The NJC Relocation Directive

Federal public servants who are required to relocate are generally covered by the National Joint Council (NJC) Relocation Directive. This directive outlines what expenses are covered and the process for reimbursement.

Key Entitlements (General)

The NJC directive typically covers categories such as:

CategoryWhat It May CoverMoving household goodsProfessional movers, packing, transportTemporary accommodationHotel or temporary housing while finding a permanent homeHouse hunting tripTravel to the new city to search for housingReal estate feesCosts related to selling your current home and buying a new oneMiscellaneous expensesA lump sum or allowable amount for incidental relocation costsTravelTransportation for you and your family to the new location

Disclaimer: Entitlements under the NJC Directive depend on the specific circumstances of your relocation, your department's policies, and the current version of the directive. Consult your HR/relocation advisor for accurate details applicable to your situation.

Tips for Government Relocations

• Start early. Government moves often have fixed reporting dates, and delays can affect your housing situation and career timeline.
• Document everything. Keep receipts for every moving-related expense — the reimbursement process requires thorough documentation.
• Understand your limits. The directive has caps and specific rules about what qualifies. Spending beyond covered amounts without pre-approval may come out of your own pocket.
• Choose an experienced mover. Not all moving companies are familiar with government relocation paperwork. Choose a company that can provide detailed invoices, itemized receipts, and any documentation your program requires.

Where to Live: Ottawa vs Gatineau for Government Workers

Many government employees posted to Ottawa choose to live in Gatineau for lower housing costs. This is a viable option, but comes with trade-offs.

Key Considerations

FactorOttawaGatineauHousing costsHigherLowerCommute to downtown coreShort (if living centrally)Bridge-dependent (15–45 min)HealthcareOHIPRAMQ (different system)Income taxOntario ratesQuebec rates (generally higher)SchoolsOntario curriculumQuebec curriculum (different system)ChildcareMarket-rateSubsidized CPE (if available)

For a full Ottawa vs Gatineau comparison, see Ottawa vs Gatineau: Moving and Cost-of-Living Comparison.

Where Government Workers Live in Ottawa

NeighbourhoodGood ForCommute to DowntownCentretown / Golden TriangleWalkable to most government buildings5–15 min walk/bikeSandy HillAffordable rentals, close to Rideau10–20 min transitAlta VistaFamily-friendly, hospital corridor15–20 min driveBarrhavenAffordable houses, suburban feel30–45 min driveKanataTech sector + government30–50 min driveOrléansBilingual, family-friendly25–40 min drive

For neighbourhood details, see Best Neighborhoods in Ottawa for New Residents.

Posted to Ottawa and need IRP-approved movers? We work with military and government relocations regularly. Get a free relocation quote.

Timeline: Military/Government Posting to Ottawa

WhenWhat to DoAs soon as you get the posting/transferContact relocation coordinator; start researching Ottawa housing8–12 weeks beforeBook movers (earlier in summer); schedule HHT if applicable6–8 weeks beforeArrange temporary accommodation; register kids at new schools4–6 weeks beforeStart packing non-essentials; arrange utility transfers2–4 weeks beforeConfirm all bookings; finalize housing; complete packing1 week beforeFinal confirmations; pack essentials bag; prepare for departureMove dayExecute the move; document everything for claimsFirst 2 weeks afterUnpack, settle, submit relocation claims, update address

For a comprehensive pre-move checklist, see Ottawa Moving Checklist: Everything You Need.

Ottawa-Specific Moving Tips for Military/Government Relocations

Security Clearance Considerations

If you hold a security clearance, be aware:

• Address changes must be reported to your security officer
• Some living arrangements may have implications for clearance (e.g., roommate situations)
• International boundary crossings (living in Gatineau = Quebec) don't affect clearance but must be reported

Parking at Government Buildings

If you're reporting to a downtown government building, parking is extremely limited and expensive. Many government workers use OC Transpo, the O-Train LRT, or cycling. Factor commute options into your housing decision.

Bilingualism

Ottawa is officially bilingual in practice. Many government positions require or prefer bilingual candidates. If you're improving your French, consider living in Gatineau or a bilingual Ottawa neighbourhood like Vanier or Orléans for immersion.

Summer Posting Season

Most military postings happen in the summer (June–August), which coincides with Ottawa's peak moving season. Add Quebec's July 1 moving day effect, and movers are in extremely high demand. Book as early as possible — ideally 2–3 months before your move date.

For more on summer moving logistics, see Moving in Summer in Ottawa.

What to Look for in a Moving Company for Government/Military Moves

Not all movers are equipped for the specific needs of a relocation-program move:

RequirementWhy It MattersDetailed invoicingReimbursement programs require itemized receiptsInsurance documentationCertificate of Insurance may be requiredFlexible schedulingMilitary timelines can shift; your mover should accommodate changesLong-distance capabilityIf relocating from another province or basePacking servicesOften covered by relocation programs; worth usingExperience with government movesFamiliarity with documentation requirements saves you time and frustration

Thousands of military and government professionals make Ottawa their home every year — and we help many of them get there. We understand the paperwork, the timelines, and the local logistics.

👉 Get your free relocation moving quote today

Frequently Asked Questions

Does IRP cover all my moving costs?

IRP covers many moving-related expenses, but there are caps and conditions. Specific entitlements depend on your rank, family situation, and the current program guidelines. Consult your relocation coordinator for details.

Can I choose my own moving company under IRP?

This depends on the current program structure. Some versions of IRP allow member choice within approved providers; others assign movers through the relocation service. Check with your coordinator.

Should I live in Ottawa or Gatineau if I'm posted to Ottawa?

It depends on your priorities. Gatineau offers lower housing costs and subsidized childcare. Ottawa offers simpler commutes and Ontario's healthcare system. Many government workers choose Gatineau for the savings.

How early should I book movers for a summer posting to Ottawa?

At least 2–3 months in advance. Summer is Ottawa's peak moving season, and military posting cycles create additional demand. The earlier you book, the better your options.

Will my relocation program cover temporary accommodation?

Most programs provide temporary accommodation allowances while you find permanent housing. The duration and daily rates vary by program. Verify the specifics with your relocation advisor.

What if my posting date changes after I've booked movers?

Communicate with your moving company immediately. Most professional movers can reschedule with reasonable notice, though peak-season moves may be harder to shift.

How do I handle housing if I haven't found a place in Ottawa yet?

Extended-stay hotels, furnished apartments, and short-term rentals are available in Ottawa. Some relocation programs cover these costs. Start your housing search during your House Hunting Trip.

Do I need to update my security clearance when I move?

You must report your new address to your security officer. Living arrangements (particularly in a different province like Quebec) should be disclosed per your departmental requirements.