Cost of Relocating to Canada from Nigeria with Family

Leaving Nigeria for a new life in Canada can be a challenging but exciting prospect. In fact, relocating to the Great White North is becoming an increasingly popular choice for many Nigerians looking to start anew. However, it’s important to understand the cost of such a move before making any decisions. In this article, we’ll cover the cost of relocating to Canada from Nigeria with your family in tow.

According to Canadavisa, around 70,000 Canadians of Nigerian origin currently reside in Canada, with the number increasing year after year. However, the cost of relocation is an important aspect when considering moving to Canada. It can affect your decision-making process, and you need to be aware of it to make an informed decision.

Generally, the immigration pathway you choose can determine the cost of relocation. Canada operates over 100 immigration programs, including the Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program. On this page, we will focus mainly on these two major pathways. But for those considering the cost of studying in Canada from Nigeria, we also have you covered.

Popular Canadian Immigration Programs for Nigerians

Canada offers various immigration programs for Nigerians who wish to move to Canada. Here are some of the popular immigration programs that Nigerians can explore:

Express Entry

This is a federal immigration program for skilled workers who wish to move to Canada permanently. The program is point-based, and applicants are assessed based on age, education, language proficiency, and work experience. This program is suitable for highly skilled doctors, nurses, engineers, accountants, and many other professions.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

This program is for those Nigerians who wish to settle in a particular province or territory in Canada. Each province or territory has its own PNP, assessed based on its specific requirements. This program is especially good for Nigerians because they offer a lower point grading system to invited candidates to the country.

Quebec Skilled Worker Program

This program is for individuals who wish to settle in Quebec. Applicants are assessed based on education, work experience, age, language proficiency, and other factors.

Atlantic Immigration Pilot

This program is designed to address the Atlantic provinces’ labor market needs, including New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. The program is employer-driven, and you must have a job offer from an employer in one of the participating provinces.

Family Sponsorship

If you have a Canadian citizen or permanent resident as your family member, this program could be good for you. This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their family members for immigration to Canada. Eligible relatives include spouses, common-law partners, parents, grandparents, and dependent children.

Cost of Relocating to Canada through the Express Entry

As mentioned above, the Express Entry program is a point-based system that ranks potential immigrants based on age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. If you score high enough, you can apply for permanent residency in Canada. The program is open to individuals and families who meet the eligibility criteria.

As a Nigerian looking to relocate to Canada through the Express Entry program, there are several costs to consider including the following:

Language tests

One of the eligibility requirements for the Express Entry program is to demonstrate proficiency in English. You and your spouse must take a language test, either the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP). The cost of these tests varies, but expect to pay between ₦100,000 – ₦200,000 each.

Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

Aside from the language test, you and your spouse must have your educational credentials (Diploma, Bachelor, Master’s degree certificates, etc) assessed by an authorized agency to ensure they meet Canadian standards. These authorized agencies could be World Education Service (WES) or International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS). Whatever you choose, expect to pay around ₦100,000 – ₦200,000 each.

Proof of Funds

Another important aspect is proof of funds, and Canada does not joke with this one! When you arrive in Canada, you must demonstrate that you have enough funds to support yourself and your family. The amount required depends on the size of your family, and you will need to provide proof of funds, such as bank statements or investment records. The minimum amount required for a family of four is currently ₦15,000,000. But we advise you to have more than that amount in your bank account to guarantee your approval by the immigration officer.

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Medical exams

In addition, before you can relocate to Canada, you and your family must undergo medical exams to ensure you are admissible. The cost of these medical exams varies, but expect to pay around ₦150,000 – ₦200,000 per person.

Police certificates

You and your family must provide police certificates from all countries where you have lived for six months or more in the past 10 years. The cost of these certificates varies by country, but expect to pay around ₦10,000 – ₦20,000 per certificate.

Express Entry application fees

Once you receive an invitation to apply for permanent residency through the Express Entry program, you must pay an application fee. The application fee is ₦350,000 per adult applicant and ₦110,000 per child applicant. Additionally, you are expected to pay the cost for the right of permanent residence fee of ₦290,000. Put these costs together; you should know how much you will pay for the entire family.

Travel and settling expenses

Finally, you will need to consider the costs of travel and settling expenses. This can include airfare, transportation, temporary accommodations, and household expenses such as furniture and groceries. The cost of these expenses will vary depending on your circumstances. Generally, the cost is determined by you, but prepare a budget of ₦2,000,000 – ₦3,000,000.

See the table below for a further breakdown of the costs.

In Summary, the cost of relocating to Canada through the Express Entry program can be high. You should budget for at least ₦18,100,000 for a single applicant and ₦28,340,000 for a family of four. These costs can vary depending on your circumstances and may be higher if you have additional expenses, such as debt or dependents with special needs.

Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs)

In Canada, PNPs are managed by eleven provincial and territory governments. These provinces and territories set their own processing or application fees. If you are nominated for PNP, the processing fee will be added to the cost of your permanent residence application. Obtaining a PNP nomination significantly increases your prospects of immigration.

The PNP settlement fund varies by province. You must meet the province’s settlement funds threshold to be eligible for nomination. When you get a nomination, you must match the IRCC settlement fund. The application fees for each province are included in the table below.

Wrapping it up!

Overall, if you are considering relocating with your family to Canada, be sure to do your research first. There are a lot of factors to consider, like the cost of proof of funds, travel, and settlements expenses. Be prepared to invest time and money into making a move happen, but once you’re there, it’s worth it!

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs about the Cost of Relocating to Canada from Nigeria with Family.

How much do I need to relocate to Canada with my family?

Generally speaking, the cost of relocating to Canada through the Express Entry program can be expensive. You should budget for at least ₦18,100,000 for a single applicant and ₦28,340,000 for a family of four.

How much will it cost to relocate from Nigeria to Canada in Naira?

If you’re moving alone, your proof of funds should be ₦13,000,000 or more. Although you do not need to “spend” your proof of funds to relocate to Canada, you must produce it as proof that you have enough to pay your living expenses for at least 6 months when you arrive.

Can I migrate from Nigeria to Canada with my family?

Yes, you can migrate to Canada with your family. The process of migrating to Canada is relatively straightforward and can be done without the help of a migration agent. However, if you want to minimize any potential hassles during the migration process, it is advisable to consult with a migration agent.

How do I relocate to Canada with my family?

Generally, Canada offers various immigration pathways for Nigerians who wish to relocate to Canada. Simply check out our easy guide to relocating to Canada from Nigeria here.