Top 10 Costs to Move to Canada [2025-2026 Guide]

TL;DR: The total cost to move to Canada varies widely but typically ranges from CAD $15,000 to $30,000+ for a single applicant. Key expenses include government fees, language tests, credential assessments, proof of funds, flights, and initial settlement costs. Use Evola AI’s free tools to estimate your personalized budget and improve your chances of approval.

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How much does it cost to apply for Canadian permanent residency?

The application fees for Canadian permanent residency typically range from CAD $1,365 to $2,500 per adult. This includes processing fees, the right of permanent residence fee, and biometrics. According to IRCC’s official fee schedule, Express Entry main applicants must pay CAD $1,365, while spouses and dependents have separate fees. These are just the government costs—additional expenses like language tests and educational assessments add several hundred dollars more.

• Express Entry application: ~CAD $1,365 per adult
• Spouse or partner added: +CAD $1,365
• Dependent child: +CAD $230 per child
• Biometrics: CAD $85 per person / CAD $170 per family

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What are the language test and credential evaluation costs?

Language tests cost around CAD $300–$350, and credential assessments range from CAD $200 to over CAD $500. English tests like IELTS or CELPIP and French tests like TEF Canada are mandatory for most economic immigration programs. Educational Credential Assessments (ECAs) verify that your foreign degree is valid in Canada. These are one-time fees but are essential for eligibility.

• IELTS/CELPIP: ~CAD $300–$340
• TEF Canada: ~CAD $380–$450
• WES ECA (common provider): CAD $220–$330+
• Other designated organizations: Varies by provider and urgency

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How much money do I need to show as proof of funds?

The proof of funds required depends on your family size and is updated annually by IRCC. For 2025, a single applicant must show at least CAD $14,690, while a family of four needs CAD $27,315. These funds must be liquid and verifiable, as you need to prove you can support yourself and your family after arriving in Canada. According to IRCC’s official settlement funds page, these amounts are mandatory for many programs like Express Entry Federal Skilled Worker.

• Single applicant: CAD $14,690
• Couple: CAD $18,288
• Family of 3: CAD $22,483
• Family of 4: CAD $27,315

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What are the costs for flights and initial accommodation?

Flights to Canada cost roughly CAD $800–$2,000 per person, and initial accommodation (e.g., short-term rental or hotel) can range from CAD $1,500–$3,000 for the first month. Prices vary based on departure location, season, and city of arrival. Major airports like Toronto (YYZ) or Vancouver (YVR) may have higher flight costs but more rental options.

• One-way flight: CAD $800–$2,000
• 1-month short-term rental: CAD $1,800–$3,500
• Hotel (2 weeks): CAD $1,500–$2,500
• Airport pickup/transport: CAD $50–$150

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How much should I budget for healthcare and insurance?

Newcomers must budget for interim health insurance until provincial coverage begins, typically costing CAD $150–$300 for the first three months. Healthcare in Canada is publicly funded, but there’s a waiting period of up to three months after arrival before you’re eligible. Private insurance is essential during this gap to cover emergencies, medications, or doctor visits.

• 3-month private health insurance: CAD $150–$450
• Initial prescription/medical costs: CAD $100–$300
• Provincial health card fee (if applicable): Usually free

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What are the costs for shipping or moving belongings?

Shipping belongings to Canada can cost between CAD $3,000 and $8,000+ depending on volume and method. Air freight is faster but expensive, while sea shipping is cheaper but slower. Many newcomers use a mix of limited luggage and shipped boxes to balance cost and convenience. Customs fees may apply for certain items.

• Sea freight (20ft container): CAD $4,000–$7,000
• Air freight (few boxes): CAD $2,000–$4,000
• Extra luggage on flight: CAD $50–$200 per bag
• Customs declaration fees: Varies

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Are there costs for finding a job or networking?

Job search costs can include professional membership fees, resume services, and networking events, totaling around CAD $300–$1,000. While not mandatory, investing in Canadian-style resume writing or LinkedIn Premium can improve employment prospects. Some regulated professions require licensing or exams, which can cost extra.

• Resume rewrite service: CAD $100–$300
• LinkedIn Premium (6 months): CAD $240
• Professional association fee: CAD $200–$600
• Licensing exam (if applicable): CAD $300–$800

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What are the costs for setting up a new home in Canada?

Initial home setup costs—such as furniture, kitchen essentials, and utilities deposits—range from CAD $3,000 to $10,000+. If you rent an unfurnished apartment, you’ll need to buy basics like a bed, fridge, and table. Many newcomers shop second-hand or at budget stores to save money.

• Basic furniture (bed, sofa, table): CAD $1,500–$4,000
• Kitware and linens: CAD $500–$1,000
• Internet and utility setup: CAD $200–$500
• Security deposit (rental): Often one month’s rent

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How much are legal or consultant fees for immigration?

Immigration lawyers or consultants charge CAD $2,000 to $7,000+ for full application support. While it’s possible to apply alone, many hire professionals to avoid errors or refusals. According to ICCRC, only authorized representatives should be hired. Alternatively, AI tools like Evola AI offer affordable guidance and document review starting at US $39/month.

• Full-service lawyer: CAD $4,000–$7,000+
• RCIC consultant: CAD $2,000–$5,000
• Evola AI Mentor (monthly): US $39–$99
• Document review only: CAD $500–$1,500

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What hidden or unexpected costs should I anticipate?

Unexpected costs include bank account fees, driver’s license conversion, winter clothing, and temporary mobile plans, adding CAD $1,000–$2,500. Canada’s climate, banking systems, and transportation may differ from your home country, so it’s wise to budget a buffer for these adjustments.

• Winter coat and boots: CAD $300–$800
• Driver’s license exchange: CAD $80–$200
• Bank account (monthly fees): CAD $120–$360/year
• SIM card and data plan: CAD $40–$100/month

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How can I estimate my total cost to move to Canada?

Use Evola AI’s free Immigration Budget Calculator to estimate your personalized moving costs based on your family size, program, and destination. Simply input your details for a detailed breakdown that includes government fees, settlement funds, flights, insurance, and setup costs. This tool helps you plan accurately and avoid surprises.

• Try Evola AI’s Budget Calculator
• Compare programs and provinces
• Adjust for your specific situation
• Plan your timeline and savings

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Moving to Canada is a significant investment, but with careful planning and the right resources, it’s entirely achievable. Use official tools, budget wisely, and consider leveraging AI guidance like Evola AI to streamline your journey. Ready to start your Canadian dream? Explore your options with Evola AI.