Cost of Moving to Canada
Consultants often quote thousands of dollars just to "help" with an application you can do yourself for free. Here's a realistic breakdown of the costs Canada's immigration system actually requires — figures are indicative in CAD and change over time, so always confirm current fees on the official IRCC fee schedule.
What IRCC charges
| Item | Typical cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Principal applicant processing fee | ~$950 |
| Spouse/partner processing fee | ~$950 |
| Dependent child processing fee (each) | ~$260 |
| Right of Permanent Residence Fee (per adult) | ~$575 |
| Biometrics fee (per person/family cap) | ~$85 / ~$170 |
Before you even apply
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Language test (IELTS/CELPIP) | $220–$320 |
| Educational Credential Assessment | $200–$300 |
| Police clearance certificate(s) | Varies by country, often $20–$100 each |
| Medical exam (panel physician) | $150–$250 per person |
Proof of funds you'll need to show
Unless you're exempt (e.g. you already have valid, arranged Canadian employment), Express Entry applicants must show liquid settlement funds. These are not fees you pay — they're savings you need to demonstrate you have access to.
| Family size | Approx. funds required (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | ~$14,700 |
| 2 people | ~$18,300 |
| 3 people | ~$22,500 |
| 4 people | ~$27,300 |
These figures are updated annually by IRCC — confirm the current amount before you apply.
Flights and initial settlement
Budget separately for one-way flights (typically $700–$1,500 per adult depending on origin city and season), initial accommodation deposits, and 1–2 months of living costs while you find your feet and open a bank account.
What you save by not hiring a consultant
Immigration consultants commonly charge $2,000–$10,000+ to prepare a single Express Entry application. AfriMigrate's calculator, checklist and guides do the same groundwork for free.