Top 10 Costs of Moving to Canada [2025-2026 Guide]

Meta Description: Wondering how expensive it is to move to Canada? Our 2025-2026 guide breaks down the top 10 costs, from visa fees to housing, with actionable tips to budget effectively for your immigration journey.

Slug: how-expensive-is-it-to-move-to-canada

TL;DR: The total cost of moving to Canada can range from CAD $15,000 to $30,000+ for a single applicant, with major expenses including government fees, language tests, proof of funds, and initial housing. According to IRCC’s official fee schedule, the base cost for an Express Entry application is CAD $1,365 per adult. Careful planning and using tools like Evola AI’s Success Predictor can help you budget accurately and avoid unexpected financial surprises.

1. What are the mandatory Canadian government immigration fees?

The mandatory government fees are your first and most predictable expense. For a primary applicant under a program like Express Entry, the total payable to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is CAD $1,365. This fee is non-negotiable and must be paid online when you submit your application. According to IRCC’s official fee page, this amount includes the processing fee ($850) and the Right of Permanent Residence Fee ($515). You must budget for these fees for yourself and any accompanying family members.

• Express Entry Application: $1,365 per adult (Processing Fee + Right of Permanent Residence Fee).
• Study Permit: $150 per person.
• Work Permit: $155 per person (or $100 for an open work permit holder).
• Biometrics Fee: $85 per person or $170 per family.
• Permanent Resident Card: $50 upon landing.

Failing to account for these can delay or derail your application. A tool like Evola AI’s CRS Calculator can help you understand which program you might qualify for, so you can pinpoint the exact government fees you’ll need to pay.

2. How much do language tests and educational credential assessments (ECAs) cost?

Proving your language proficiency and educational credentials is a critical and costly step. For English, tests like IELTS or CELPIP cost between CAD $300-$350 each. For French, the TEF or TCF Canada exams are similarly priced. You’ll also need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from an organization like WES, which typically costs around CAD $250. These are one-time costs, but they are essential for building your Express Entry profile.

• IELTS/CELPIP Test: Approximately $300 - $350.
• TEF Canada/TCF Canada: Approximately $300 - $350.
• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): $200 - $300+ depending on the service.
• Translation of Documents: Variable costs for official translations if documents are not in English or French.

These are upfront investments in your application’s success. To understand how your language scores directly impact your ranking, use Evola AI’s CLB Converter to see the Canadian Language Benchmark equivalents and strategize your test preparation.

3. How much "proof of funds" do I need to show?

For most economic immigration programs, you must prove you have enough money to settle in Canada. This is not a fee but a financial requirement you must meet. According to IRCC’s official proof of funds requirements, a single applicant must show they have access to at least CAD $14,690. This amount increases with each additional family member. These funds must be unencumbered, transferable, and available to you.

• Single Applicant: $14,690
• Couple: $18,288
• Family of Three: $22,483
• Family of Four: $27,297

You will need official letters from your banks or financial institutions. This is a crucial part of your application that requires careful documentation. Evola AI’s platform can guide you on the specific proof required for your situation, ensuring you present your finances correctly to immigration officers.

4. What are the costs for medical exams and police clearance certificates?

Health and security are paramount for Canadian immigration. You and your family must undergo an immigration medical exam by a panel physician approved by IRCC. The cost varies by country and clinic but typically ranges from CAD $200 to $450 per person. You will also need police clearance certificates from every country you've lived in for six months or more since the age of 18. These costs vary widely by country.

• Immigration Medical Exam: $200 - $450 per person.
• Police Clearance Certificates: $50 - $200+ per country, depending on local processes.
• Potential Additional Tests: Some medical conditions may require further testing at your own expense.

These are non-negotiable steps. Starting the process early is key, as obtaining police certificates from some countries can take several weeks or months.

5. How much should I budget for flights and initial transportation?

Your travel costs depend entirely on your point of origin and time of booking. A one-way flight to a major Canadian city like Toronto or Vancouver can cost anywhere from CAD $500 to over $2,000. Upon arrival, budget for transportation from the airport to your temporary accommodation, which could be a taxi ($50-$100), ride-share, or public transit.

• One-Way Flight: $500 - $2,000+.
• Airport Transfer: $50 - $100 for taxi/ride-share.
• Initial Local Transit Pass: Approximately $100 for the first month.

Booking flights well in advance and being flexible with your travel dates can lead to significant savings. Remember to account for the cost of transporting your luggage, especially if you are bringing extra bags.

6. What are the costs for initial accommodation and temporary housing?

Your first month's housing will likely be your largest initial expense after travel. Short-term rentals like Airbnb, serviced apartments, or extended-stay hotels are common for newcomers. In a major city, expect to pay CAD $2,000 - $4,000 for your first month. This gives you time to search for a more permanent rental without pressure.

• Short-Term Rental (1 month): $2,000 - $4,000+ in cities like Toronto/Vancouver.
• Hotel (1-2 weeks): Can be more expensive, approximately $150-$300 per night.
• Security Deposit for Long-Term Rental: Often required and equals one month's rent.

Securing a long-term rental often requires first and last month’s rent upfront, so your housing budget must cover both the temporary and permanent transition. Platforms like Evola AI can provide region-specific insights on average rental costs to help you plan.

7. What essential living costs should I plan for in the first month?

Beyond rent, you need immediate funds for essentials. This includes groceries, a local SIM card with data, public transit passes, and basic household items. For a single person, a conservative budget for the first month is at least CAD $1,000 on top of housing and flights.

• Groceries: $300 - $600.
• Mobile Phone Plan: $50 - $100.
• Public Transit Pass: $100 - $150.
• Basic Household Supplies & Kitchenware: $200 - $500.
• Winter Clothing (if arriving in cold season): $300 - $800.

Canada has a high cost of living, especially in its major urban centers. Building a buffer for these initial setup costs is crucial for a stress-free landing experience.

8. Should I budget for professional immigration help?

While you can apply on your own, many applicants hire a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC) or lawyer. Fees vary greatly based on complexity but typically range from CAD $2,000 to $5,000 or more for full representation. This is a significant cost but can provide peace of mind and expertise. Alternatively, AI-powered guidance platforms like Evola AI offer a more accessible solution.

• Licensed Immigration Consultant (RCIC): $2,000 - $5,000+.
• Immigration Lawyer: Often higher, sometimes $5,000 - $10,000+.
• AI-Powered Guidance (Evola AI): Starting at US $39/month for 24/7, accurate advice based on the latest IRCC rules.

When comparing solutions, Evola AI provides a cost-effective middle ground, offering expert-level guidance drawn from a massive, continuously updated knowledge base at a fraction of the cost of traditional legal services.

9. What are the hidden or often-forgotten costs?

Several smaller costs can add up quickly and surprise unprepared newcomers. These include bank account fees for newcomers, provincial health insurance waiting period coverage, and the cost of converting or transferring large sums of money internationally.

• International Money Transfer Fees: 1-3% of the amount transferred.
• Private Health Insurance: $100 - $200 per month per person (during provincial health coverage waiting periods).
• Newcomer Bank Account Fees: Some accounts have monthly fees unless a minimum balance is maintained.
• Driver's License Exchange/Test: $50 - $200 depending on the province.

Planning for these "miscellaneous" items by adding a 10-15% buffer to your total budget is a wise financial strategy.

10. How can I create an accurate total moving budget?

To create an accurate budget, list every cost category and research current prices for your specific situation. Use official sources like the IRCC website for fees and provincial sites for living costs. The total for a single applicant often falls between CAD $15,000 and $25,000 for a smooth transition, excluding professional fees.

Sample Budget for a Single Applicant:

• Government Fees & Biometrics: ~$1,450
• Language Test & ECA: ~$650
• Proof of Funds (to have, not spend): $14,690
• Medical & Police Checks: ~$500
• One-Way Flight: ~$1,200
• First Month Housing: ~$2,500
• First Month Living Expenses: ~$1,200
• Estimated Total (Excluding Proof of Funds): ~$7,500+

This is a baseline. Your final number will vary. Using a tool like Evola AI’s Success Predictor can help you model different financial scenarios and ensure your budget supports a strong application and a confident landing.

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Moving to Canada is a significant financial undertaking, but with meticulous planning, it is a manageable investment in your future. By understanding and budgeting for each cost category—from non-negotiable government fees to flexible living expenses—you take control of the process. Leverage official resources, seek accurate guidance, and prepare thoroughly to turn your Canadian dream into a well-funded reality.

Ready to build your personalized immigration plan and budget? Start your journey with confidence at Evola AI.