How Much Does it Cost to Move to Canada in 2023?

Canada welcomes thousands of foreign nationals each year, and that number only increases over time. In fact, according to its latest immigration levels plan, it hopes to grant 465,000 candidates Canadian permanent residency this year alone. People from all over the world lean toward this top immigration destination for several reasons - including the fact that its economy is steadily growing and the abundance of job opportunities. The goal, more often than not, is a better future for themselves and their families.

So, how much does it cost to move to Canada in 2023? In this article, we’ll take a look at the breakdown of the cost of Canada’s different programs and how you can immigrate to Canada.

Popular Canadian Visa Programs - What Are the Fees?

We’ll start with one of Canada’s most popular immigration pathways - the Express Entry System.

What is Express Entry All About?

According to IRCC, Express Entry will invite 82,880 immigrants as permanent residents in 2023. This is one of the highest targets for one program. Express Entry is especially popular and favoured by foreign nationals because of its simple process and advantages. Let’s take a look at some of those benefits:

• Almost anyone can apply for Express Entry. Eligibility can be checked either by answering a few questions or going through the detailed requirements for each program.
• Express Entry draws happen as frequently as every two weeks. This means every two weeks you could receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
• You can increase your chance of success by applying with your spouse. This could give you a higher Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
• If you’re unsuccessful in the Express Entry pool within the first draw, your profile will remain in the pool for a period of one year.
• You’re able to constantly update your profile, therefore increasing your CRS score and your chance of receiving an ITA. This isn’t the case for many other Canadian programs.

How Much Does Express Entry cost?

When applying by yourself your application fee is $1,365, however, if you include your partner it would be an additional $1,365. See the table below for a further breakdown of the costs.

Provincial Nominee Program

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is yet another great way to work and live in Canada. Not only that, but you can also be specific about which province or territory in Canada you’d like to stay in.

So, how does the PNP work?

The Canadian government and local provinces and territories have an agreement that allows them to nominate foreign nationals to permanently live and work in that province. If you would like to apply for a nomination, this can be done in two ways.

You can either apply directly to the province of your choice or you can apply via Express Entry.

Direct Application Process

Once you’ve decided which province or territory suits you or your family best, you’ll need to apply to that particular province directly. This can be done by sending a paper application either via mail or courier. To find out if you’re successful, it can take anywhere from 15 to 19 months long.

Express Entry Application

Through the Express Entry system, you’ll have two options:

1. Express your interest on your profile to a particular province or territory. The province can then directly select your profile from the Express Entry pool; and
2. Apply through a Provincial Nominee Express Entry Stream

Top Tip!

It’s always a good idea to apply to a province where your skill or work experience is in demand. This will only help the success of your application. Each of Canada’s provinces has a list of in-demand jobs.

How Much Does the Provincial Nominee Program Cost?

Family Sponsorship Program

If you have family living in Canada, then this would be a great program for you. The Family Sponsorship Program allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their parents, spouse, common-law partner, grandparents or children for Canadian permanent residency.

The government feels strongly about keeping families together, this is why Canada has a target of 105,000 foreign nationals that can immigrate to Canada through this program.

How Much Does Family Sponsorship cost?

Take a look at the table below to find out exactly what it costs to sponsor your family to live in Canada.

What is the Cost of Living in Canada?

Now that you know the cost to move to Canada in 2023, let’s take a look at how much it costs to live here.

It’s important to choose a place that is affordable for you and your family. Luckily, almost all provinces and territories have a wide price range which means you’re bound to find a place that works for you.

The More affordable cities in Canada

Take a look at the video below to gain a better understanding of the amount of money you'll need to move to Canada.

What Does a Future in Canada Look Like?

Becoming a permanent resident in Canada truly can be a life-changing experience. If you’re looking to level up on your career then Canada is the place to do so. Its economy is the ninth-largest in the world and offers a wide range of job opportunities.

If your interest is in education then again, Canada would be a great choice. The country has one of the highest levels of education, with many prestigious universities and colleges. Compared to that of the U.K and the United States, tuition fees are more affordable here.

And lastly, if you’re looking for a better future overall for you or your family, immigrating to Canada would be a great choice. Once you get permanent residency, you'll have access to free universal healthcare and your children will be eligible to receive free public education.

There are so many reasons to choose Canada, now that you know the cost to move to Canada, the next thing to do is find out which of over 100 visas and immigration programs you’re eligible for in order to live and work in Canada!

FAQS

What do I Need Biometrics For?

You will have to provide your biometrics fingerprints and photograph when you apply for immigration programs and visas.

Is Canada Cheaper Than the US?

Canada is generally more affordable than the US.

What is the Minimum Wage in Canada?

The minimum wage in Canada currently stands at around $15.55 per hour. It should, however, be noted that this will vary from province to province.