.png)
For Brits moving abroad
Other Costs of Moving to Canada from the UK
Official fees for permanent residence through Express Entry. Checked October 2026.
Processing fee (primary applicant): CA$990
Right of permanent residence fee: CA$600
Biometrics: CA$85 per person, or CA$170 for a family
Partners pay the same CA$1,590, and each dependent child costs CA$270. Check current fees and processing times on the IRCC site.
Other Costs
Visas and transfers are only part of it. Budget for these too:
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for your UK qualifications
English test, such as IELTS General Training or CELPIP
Medical exam and police certificates
Trade or professional registration fees in your province
Shipping your belongings
Proof of funds: unless you have a valid job offer, you must show you have enough money to settle. The amount depends on your family size and changes every year.
Get quotes early, because shipping in particular can take months to arrange.
Cost of Moving to Canada from the UK
Last checked: October 2026
The cost of moving to Canada from the UK, from visa fees to rent. Here’s what you’ll pay for, with official visa fees checked in October 2026, and how to avoid losing thousands when you move your money.
We may earn a commission if you use some links on this page, at no cost to you.
Moving Your Money
Selling a house or moving your savings? Don't just use your bank. Banks often add a hidden margin to the exchange rate, and on a large transfer that can cost you thousands.
Currency specialists usually give better rates. Wise suits everyday and mid-sized transfers. For large sums like house sale money, specialists such as OFX or Currencies Direct can lock in a rate for you.
Compare rates before you send anything.
School fees In Canada
Public school in Canada is free for children of permanent residents. If you arrive on a work permit first, your children can usually go to public school free too, but each school board sets its own conditions, such as how long your permit lasts and proof that you live in the province. Children coming from abroad may also need their own study permit, so apply for it at the same time as your work permit. Check with the school board in the city you're moving to before you go.
Renting a home
Most people rent when they first arrive. Deposit rules are set by each province. In Ontario, for example, landlords can ask for last month's rent upfront but can't charge a damage deposit, while other provinces allow a security deposit. Check the rules for the province you're moving to.
Renting in Canada is expensive, but it's getting cheaper. The average asking rent was CA$2,034 a month in September 2026, down 4.2% on a year earlier, and rents have now fallen for two years in a row. Toronto averaged CA$2,554. A quick check: if the rent you're looking at takes more than a third of your expected Canadian salary before tax, it'll feel tight.
Budget for short-term accommodation while you look, as finding a rental can take weeks.
To see what rent looks like where you're moving, search listings on Rentals.ca and Kijiji.
For a full breakdown of bank fees, specialist providers and how to move a large sum like a house sale, read our guide to moving money abroad.
Not sure Canada is right for you?
Canada isn't the only option. Our free relocation tool compares countries based on your job, age and priorities, and shows you where you'd fit best.
Questions about moving to Canada?
Send us a message and we’ll get back to you within one to two days.
