How To Move To Canada From The US: A Complete Guide For 2024
It is for the people who are considering moving to Canada from the United States. It’s an exciting decision, but it is necessary to prepare for the cost of the move. Here we will delve into the details of budgeting the move alone or with family.
Key Points To Keep In Mind
- Costs fall into two main categories: Immigration and moving expenses, and the ongoing cost of living in Canada.
- Minimum costs:
- For an individual: ~ USD 15,300.
- For a family of four: ~ USD 27,600.
Costs For Individuals: Moving From The U.S. To Canada
1. Immigration Costs
To move to Canada, one needs to go through the immigration process, which includes the following expenses:
- Medical Exam: This is a must for your application.
- Language Test: Even native English speakers need this!
- Biometrics: Fingerprints and photos for your ID.
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): Verifies your qualifications.
- Application Fees: Fees charged by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Total: ~ USD 1,800 for all these steps.
You’ll also need to prove you have enough savings to support yourself once you arrive. The current settlement funds requirement is ~ USD 10,575 (14,250 CAD). These funds are yours to use after arriving but must be shown during the application.
Many people hire an immigration consultant to help with the process. While optional, this can cost between $2,800–$3,600 USD.
2. Moving Costs
Moving comes with additional expenses like:
- Health Insurance: Private health insurance is highly recommended for the first 90 days until you qualify for Canada’s public healthcare system. This costs ~ USD 720 for individuals.
- Moving Services: Shipping your belongings can cost anywhere from ~ USD 720 for basic services to over $7,000 for professional movers.
- Switching Licenses: If you drive, you must switch to a Canadian driver’s license, which may have extra fees.
Minimum budget needed: ~ USD 15,264 (22,443 CAD).
3. Cost Of Living For Individuals
Your monthly expenses will vary depending on where you live in Canada.
- Toronto: ~ USD 1,084/month (excluding rent).
- Vancouver: ~ $1,100/month (excluding rent).
Rent in city centers can be expensive. A one-bedroom apartment in Toronto averages ~ USD 1,950, while in Vancouver, it’s about ~ USD 2,200.
Costs For Families: Moving To Canada
1. Immigration Costs
For a family of four, immigration costs are naturally higher. Here’s what to budget for:
- Medical Exams: Each family member needs one.
- Language Tests: Required for adult applicants.
- Biometrics: For everyone in your application.
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
- Application Fees: Total ~ USD 4,350 for a family of four.
You’ll also need to show settlement funds of ~ USD 19,654 (26,500 CAD) to prove you can support your family.
Professional help from an immigration consultant can cost ~$3,000–USD 5,000.
2. Moving Costs
Here’s what families should expect:
- Health Insurance: Private coverage for 90 days for a family of four costs ~ USD 2,150.
- Moving Services: Costs range from ~ USD 1,800 for basic moving services to ~ USD 7,000 or more for a fully managed move.
- Car and License Costs: Importing a car can cost ~ USD 7,170. Selling your car in the U.S. and buying one in Canada might be a better option.
Minimum budget: ~ USD 27,603 (39,115 CAD)
3. Cost Of Living For Families
Monthly expenses for a family of four in Toronto or Vancouver look like this:
| Expense | Toronto (USD) | Vancouver (USD) |
| Food & Groceries | ~$940 | ~$975 |
| Utilities | ~$166 | ~$159 |
| Childcare | ~$1,151 | ~$1,144 |
| Transportation | ~$378 | ~$407 |
| Entertainment | ~$333 | ~$349 |
Total: ~ USD 3,981/month (excluding rent).
Housing is a significant cost:
- A 3-bedroom apartment in Toronto’s city center: ~ USD 3,036.
- A similar apartment in Vancouver: ~ USD 3,682.
How To Save Money When Moving?
Sell your car: Importing automobiles to Canada is expensive in terms of taxes and inspections. It would be best to sell your car in the U.S. and then buy a new one in Canada.
Shop around for movers: Get multiple quotes for moving services to find the best deal.
Free Tools To Help You Plan
Asif Consulting offers resources and guides to help you manage your immigration and moving process. We are available for tailored advice or professional support, they can connect you with trusted consultants and service providers.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Canada is a big step, and careful planning can help make it smoother. While the costs might seem high, they’re manageable with the right preparation. Whether you’re moving solo or bringing your family, budget wisely, and explore cost-saving tips. Contact Asif Consulting to prepare for an exciting new chapter in one of the most welcoming countries in the world
