For many individuals, cost is the primary consideration when deciding to immigrate to Canada. This factor is one of the key indicators that either leads to a final decision or causes many applicants to withdraw from their immigration plans. On the other hand, it’s a reality that immigration is expensive, and this cannot be ignored or taken lightly.
However, it’s important to note that the cost of immigrating to Canada is significantly more affordable compared to many other developed countries, such as the United States or other American nations, and it is manageable for many people.
Immigration to Canada can be achieved through various pathways and methods, each with its own costs. Additionally, factors such as fluctuations in currency exchange rates and annual changes in fees should be considered. Generally, there are both variable and fixed costs associated with immigration to Canada that need to be taken into account.
In this article from Sarafi Hafez, we will take a closer look at the cost of immigrating to Canada. If you’re considering moving to this country, it’s worth staying with us.
Minimum Funds Required for Immigration to Canada
Without considering variables such as the immigration method and fluctuations in the exchange rate, in 2024, the average cost for a single individual to immigrate to Canada is approximately 1 billion Iranian rials, or more precisely, $15,500. Naturally, this amount increases with the addition of a spouse and children, potentially reaching between $21,000 and $30,000 (around 1.5 to 3 billion Iranian rials).
These figures are approximate estimates based on numbers provided by the Canadian government. To determine the exact amount, you should also consider additional costs such as consulting fees, immigration lawyer fees, translation and document preparation, and so on.
Note: Keep in mind that the cost of obtaining a financial proof certificate can be considered either part of the immigration costs or not, as the funds you deposit for financial proof can be released after obtaining the visa.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Immigration to Canada
Several factors can influence the cost of immigrating to Canada, with the most significant being:
- Exchange Rate Fluctuations: Always have additional funds available to avoid financial shortages due to currency fluctuations.
- Differences in Immigration Costs by Method: For instance, investment immigration is more expensive than work-based immigration.
- Number of Applicants: The cost increases with the inclusion of a spouse and children.
- Destination Province and City: Living and immigration costs vary across different Canadian provinces and cities.
- Additional Immigration Costs
Note: Currency transfers may be processed with delays of several days and at the current exchange rate. As a result, the value of the rial might decrease during the transfer, potentially leading to a shortfall. Therefore, it is advisable to transfer funds in dollars or to account for potential fluctuations by setting aside additional funds.
Additional Costs of Immigration to Canada
In addition to the direct costs associated with the immigration process, there are several additional expenses that you will ultimately need to cover. These ancillary costs are not defined by the Canadian government but are rather part of the process:
- Language Class Fees: If necessary, for attending language classes.
- International Exam Fees: For taking English (or French) language proficiency tests.
- Consultant and Immigration Lawyer Fees: For professional advice and services.
- Medical Examination Fees: For health tests required for immigration.
- Biometric Fees: For fingerprinting at the embassy, which is one of the largest ancillary costs.
- Criminal Record Certificate Fees: For obtaining a police clearance certificate.
- Official Document Translation Fees: For translating documents into the required language.
- Document Preparation Costs: Such as obtaining and evaluating educational credentials (ECA), taking photographs, etc.
- Passport Renewal Fees: If applicable.
Biometric Costs for Immigration to Canada
As mentioned, biometric costs, which include fingerprinting, are one of the largest ancillary expenses associated with immigrating to Canada. You will need to visit one of the Canadian embassies in neighboring countries for this process.
While the biometric process itself may not be costly, the travel expenses (for yourself and all family members, if applying as a family), accommodation, and food in that country can significantly increase the overall cost.
Naturally, the cost of this mandatory side trip will be higher the more family members (children) are involved. Therefore, to manage expenses, it is advisable to choose the most affordable neighboring country for visiting the Canadian embassy.
Cost of Employment-Based Immigration to Canada
Employment-based immigration is the most popular method for moving to Canada, and the Canadian government has designed numerous programs for this pathway. One of the main reasons for the popularity of this immigration method is that it is generally more cost-effective compared to other programs.
Although there are various employment-based immigration programs with different costs, in general, this method is more affordable than options like study or investment immigration.
While there are many variables involved, the following are fixed costs that you are required to pay under almost all employment-based immigration programs:
- Application Fee for Immigration with Spouse (without Permanent Residency): CAD 850 per person
- Application Fee for Immigration with Spouse (including Permanent Residency): CAD 1,365 per person
- Application Fee for Each Child: CAD 230
Cost of Study-Based Immigration to Canada
Study-based immigration is one of the most appealing methods for moving to Canada due to the numerous benefits it offers. Those who complete their higher education in Canada have a high chance of being absorbed into the job market and can have a smoother path to obtaining permanent residency. Additionally, students can enhance their academic level and acclimate to the new community during their studies.
However, study-based immigration might not be the cheapest option available, as its costs are divided into three main categories:
- Fixed Costs: These include application fees, proof of financial capability, visa issuance, study permit fees, and more.
- Admission and Tuition Fees: Costs related to applying for admission, enrolling in the university, and paying for the first one or two semesters.
- Living Expenses: Costs related to student life, such as accommodation, rent, food, etc.
One of the biggest challenges for students is that, in addition to living expenses, they must also cover tuition fees. Furthermore, studying itself can incur many ancillary costs.
Additionally, students often lack sufficient time and the ability to work full-time, making it difficult to fully cover their expenses with a part-time job. As a result, they often rely on personal financial resources to meet their needs.
On the positive side, study-based immigration offers a significant financial advantage through scholarships and financial aid programs. Canada provides a variety of scholarships with a good chance of being awarded on a term or even permanent basis.
Receiving a scholarship or financial aid can cover a substantial portion of your expenses, including tuition and even accommodation, allowing you to manage the remaining living costs with a part-time job.
Here are some of the key costs associated with study-based immigration to Canada:
- Annual Living Costs for a Student: CAD 15,000
- Biometric and Fingerprinting Fees: CAD 85
- Permanent Residency Application Fee: CAD 200
- Study Permit Issuance Fee: CAD 150
- University Registration Fee: CAD 40 to CAD 250
- Tuition Fees per Semester: CAD 15,000 to CAD 40,000, depending on the program and level of study
Note 1: The figures mentioned above are average and may vary depending on the university, the province, and the level of study. For precise information on study-based immigration costs, it is advisable to check the official website of the respective university.
Note 2: A key requirement for admission to Canadian universities is an IELTS score of over 6.5. Therefore, you should practice English as much as possible and, if necessary, attend specialized classes to achieve a high score in this test. These classes will also involve additional costs.
Investment-Based Immigration to Canada
If you have sufficient capital, immigration through investment is one of the best methods for obtaining Canadian residency. Individuals who choose this route can confidently bring their family members along, secure permanent residency, and have numerous opportunities to expand their business and increase their income.
Canada boasts a dynamic economy and an active market, making investment in its businesses a valuable opportunity not only for obtaining permanent residency but also for earning profits.
Investment-based immigration to Canada includes various programs, each with its own benefits, drawbacks, and costs. Depending on whether you choose the Startup Visa, self-employment, provincial investment, or other programs, you will incur different expenses. The fixed costs across all these programs are as follows:
- Applicant Processing Fee (without permanent residency rights): CAD 1,625
- Spouse Processing Fee (without permanent residency rights): CAD 850
- Applicant Processing Fee (with permanent residency rights): CAD 2,140
- Spouse Processing Fee (with permanent residency rights): CAD 1,365
- Child Processing Fee (for each child): CAD 230
In addition to living expenses, proof of financial capability, and application processing fees, an initial investment is required for investment-based immigration. Depending on the chosen method, this initial investment can range from a minimum of CAD 50,000 to CAD 75,000. However, typically, cases accepted by the Canadian government involve an initial investment of at least CAD 150,000.
Investment-based immigration to Canada is a complex process that must be navigated with the help of immigration consultants and lawyers to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Cost of Immigration to Canada through Sponsorship
In the sponsorship immigration program, a relative in Canada who is a permanent resident or citizen can sponsor your immigration and cover the associated costs. Under this method, the applicant typically only needs to cover the cost of the ticket and biometric-related expenses, without any additional immigration fees.
Instead, the Canadian sponsor must meet all financial requirements, including proof of financial capability and other related criteria. To be a sponsor, the individual must be a first-degree relative of the applicant (such as a spouse, parent, child, or grandparent).
The average fixed costs for Canadian sponsorship visas for the sponsor are as follows:
- Sponsorship Processing Fee for a Child: CAD 150
- Sponsorship Processing Fee for a Stepchild: CAD 155
- Sponsorship Processing Fee for a Spouse or Partner: CAD 565
- Sponsorship Processing Fee for a Spouse or Partner with Permanent Residency Rights: CAD 1,080
Cost of Immigration to Canada with a Tourist Visa
Note that, except in exceptional cases, obtaining permanent residency in Canada through a tourist visa is not typically possible. However, the Canadian government has made exceptions in recent years for Iranian citizens, allowing them to convert their tourist visa to a work visa.
The costs associated with obtaining Canadian residency through a tourist visa are relatively low, as you only need to cover expenses such as round-trip airfare, accommodation during the application process, food, and other personal costs. There is no need to pay for immigration processing fees or permanent residency applications.
However, you will need to cover costs related to biometrics, document evaluation, embassy services, and photo preparation in order to obtain your temporary tourist visa.
The Most Affordable Way to Immigrate to Canada
Canada is generally much more affordable for immigration compared to many other countries like the United States. Among the various methods of immigration mentioned earlier, sponsorship or marriage immigration (a subset of sponsorship) is considered the cheapest and least costly option available.
The figures mentioned above are approximate and may vary due to various factors. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with your immigration lawyer for precise information on the costs associated with different immigration methods to Canada.
Final Thoughts
The cost of immigrating to Canada depends on the method you choose. The primary methods for immigrating to this country include work immigration, study immigration, and investment immigration, each with its own specific costs and variations. Additionally, factors such as the city or province where you plan to live will also impact your overall expenses.
In this article, we aimed to provide an overview of the costs associated with different immigration methods to Canada. Ultimately, you will need to select the best option based on your personal circumstances and budget.
We hope this information has been helpful to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to immigrate to Canada for free?
Yes, individuals immigrating to Canada through sponsorship or marriage generally do not need to pay any fees and are not required to provide proof of financial support. Similarly, exceptional students who receive full scholarships from Canadian universities will also have similar conditions.
What is the best method to immigrate to Canada?
Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages. However, the Canadian work visa not only has lower costs compared to other methods but also allows you to work immediately and provides an opportunity to cover your expenses from day one.
How much does it cost to seek asylum in Canada?
Asylum is a high-risk method and is not recommended. Note that individuals seeking asylum will also incur various costs, including expenses related to living in a foreign country until their application status is determined.
