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Do Immigrants Get Money in Canada?

immigration lawyers at EvolaAI
Aug 25, 2025
5 min read
Immigration Guide
#immigrants
#Canada
#financial support
#government benefits
#settlement services
#refugees
#healthcare
#employment insurance

Do Immigrants Get Money When They Come to Canada? [2025-2026 Guide]

TL;DR: No, the Canadian government does not give money directly to immigrants upon arrival. However, eligible newcomers may access certain financial benefits, settlement services, and support programs after meeting specific criteria. Understanding what assistance is available—and what isn’t—is key to planning a successful transition.


Do immigrants receive money from the Canadian government when they arrive?

No, immigrants do not receive a direct payment or lump sum from the government upon arriving in Canada. Canada does not offer “welcome money” to newcomers. Instead, financial support comes in the form of eligibility for certain federal or provincial benefits—but only after meeting residency, income, or status requirements. For example, benefits like the Canada Child Benefit are available to eligible families but are not handed out at the airport.

Key facts:

  • There is no automatic cash grant for new immigrants.
  • Most benefits require you to file a Canadian tax return first.
  • Support is often tied to low-income status or specific life circumstances.
  • You must have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) to apply for any financial aid.

What financial support is available for immigrants in Canada?

Eligible immigrants can apply for need-based benefits, tax credits, and settlement services after arrival. According to IRCC’s official settlement services page, many free programs exist to help newcomers integrate, but direct financial aid is limited and conditional. Common supports include:

  • Canada Child Benefit (CCB): Tax-free monthly payment to eligible families with children under 18.
  • GST/HST Credit: A quarterly tax-free payment for low- and modest-income individuals and families.
  • Provincial benefits: Programs like Ontario’s Trillium Benefit or BC’s Climate Action Tax Credit, which provide additional support.
  • Settlement services: Free language training, employment assistance, and community orientation—often funded by IRCC.

These are not “free money” but rather supports designed to assist during your settlement period.

Do refugees receive financial assistance in Canada?

Yes, government-assisted refugees and some refugee claimants may receive temporary financial support through the Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP). According to IRCC’s guide on refugee support, this includes a one-time startup allowance and monthly income support for basics like food and rent—but only for up to one year or until they become self-sufficient. Eligibility is strict and does not apply to economic immigrants or family sponsors.

How can immigrants prepare financially before moving to Canada?

Planning your finances before arrival is crucial since no direct monetary support is provided. You should:

  • Save enough to cover living expenses for at least 6 months.
  • Research the cost of living in your intended city or province.
  • Secure important documents: passport, visa, education credentials, and proof of funds.
  • Use tools like Evola AI’s Immigration Success Predictor to evaluate your settlement readiness and financial preparedness based on your profile.

Evola AI helps you model different scenarios—like moving to Toronto vs. Calgary—so you can budget accurately and avoid surprises.

Are there any loans or grants for new immigrants?

While Canada doesn’t offer grants specifically for immigrants, some organizations provide loans or subsidies for certain needs:

  • Micro-loans: Some NGOs offer small loans to skilled immigrants to help with credential recognition or startup costs.
  • Student loans: Permanent residents may qualify for provincial student aid if enrolling in further education.
  • Settlement agency support: Many IRCC-funded organizations offer free workshops, resume help, and job placement services—which indirectly support financial stability.

Always verify the legitimacy of any program through official government sources like Canada.ca.

What is the minimum funds requirement for immigrants?

Most economic immigration programs require proof of funds to ensure you can support yourself and your family after arrival. According to IRCC’s official proof of funds page, the amount varies by family size and is updated annually. For example, in 2025, a single applicant may need to show around $15,000 CAD, while a family of four might need over $30,000. This is not money the government gives you—it’s money you must have.

How does healthcare coverage work for new immigrants?

Healthcare in Canada is publicly funded but administered by provinces. New immigrants may not be covered immediately:

  • Some provinces have a waiting period (e.g., up to 3 months) before coverage begins.
  • You should purchase private health insurance to bridge the gap.
  • Refugees may receive immediate coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program.

Once eligible, healthcare is free at the point of service—but it’s not a cash benefit.

Can immigrants access employment insurance or social assistance?

Yes, but only if they meet eligibility criteria such as having worked a certain number of insurable hours and contributing to Employment Insurance (EI). Social assistance (welfare) is available in cases of extreme need but is considered a last resort and may impact future immigration applications like sponsorship or citizenship.

How can Evola AI help with financial planning for immigration?

Evola AI offers real-time guidance and predictive tools to help you plan your finances and settlement strategy. For example:

  • Use our CRS Calculator to estimate your Express Entry score and understand how factors like job offers or savings impact your eligibility.
  • Our platform provides updated policy alerts so you never miss changes to benefit programs or fund requirements.
  • With a 24/7 AI mentor, you can get answers to questions like “How much should I save for Vancouver?” or “What benefits can I apply for?” without costly lawyer fees.

Evola puts accurate, personalized advice at your fingertips—helping you avoid financial pitfalls and focus on building your new life.


Moving to Canada is an exciting journey, but it requires careful financial planning. While the government doesn’t hand out money, a wealth of support services and benefits exist to help you succeed—if you know where to look. With the right preparation and resources, you can transition smoothly and confidently.

Ready to take the next step? Explore your options and get personalized support at Evola AI.

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Last updated: Aug 25, 2025Reading time: 5 min
Tags: #immigrants, #Canada, #financial support...

Article Info

Category:
Immigration Guide
Read time:5 min
Published:08/25
Updated:08/25

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