How Much Does It Cost to Migrate to Canada from Nigeria? A Comprehensive Calculation
Migrating to a new country is a significant financial and emotional investment. For many Nigerians, Canada is a top destination due to its robust economy, high quality of life, and welcoming immigration policies. However, understanding the total cost of migrating to Canada from Nigeria is of great important for planning and preparation. This guide will break down the expenses involved in the migration process to give you a clear picture of what to expect.. don’t forget to read the NOTE at the end of the calculation
1. Visa and Immigration Fees.
visa expenses vary depending on rout you choose
a. Express Entry System
Most Nigerians migrate to Canada through the Express Entry system, which includes three main programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. The primary costs associated with this system are:
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): CAD 200 (approx. NGN 220,000)
- Language Test (IELTS): CAD 300 (approx. NGN 330,000)
- Express Entry Application Fee: CAD 1,325 (approx. NGN 1,457,500) for the principal applicant
- Spouse/Partner Fee: CAD 1,325 (approx. NGN 1,457,500)
- Dependent Child Fee: CAD 225 (approx. NGN 247,500) per child
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): CAD 500 (approx. NGN 550,000) per adult
b. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Some applicants might opt for Provincial Nominee Programs, which can have additional fees ranging from CAD 250 to CAD 1,500 (approx. NGN 275,000 to NGN 1,650,000) depending on the province.
2. Travel Expenses.
as Canada is very far from Nigeria, the main means of traveling is by flight
a. Flight Tickets
The cost of a one-way flight from Lagos, Nigeria to major cities in Canada (Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal) varies but generally ranges from:
- Economy Class: CAD 1,000 – CAD 1,500 (approx. NGN 1,100,000 – NGN 1,650,000)
- Business Class: CAD 3,000 – CAD 5,000 (approx. NGN 3,300,000 – NGN 5,500,000)
3. Settlement Funds
The Canadian government requires proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and your family for the first few months. As of 2024, the required amount is:
- Single Applicant: CAD 13,310 (approx. NGN 14,641,000)
- Couple: CAD 16,570 (approx. NGN 18,227,000)
- Family of Four: CAD 24,733 (approx. NGN 27,206,300)
4. Miscellaneous Costs
a. Medical Examination
- Cost: CAD 300 – CAD 500 (approx. NGN 330,000 – NGN 550,000) per person
b. Police Clearance Certificate
- Cost: CAD 50 – CAD 100 (approx. NGN 55,000 – NGN 110,000)
c. Passport Application/Renewal
- Cost: NGN 35,000 – NGN 70,000 (approx. CAD 31.82 – CAD 63.64)
d. Document Translation and Notarization
- Cost: CAD 100 – CAD 300 (approx. NGN 110,000 – NGN 330,000)
5. Total Estimated Cost
Let’s summarize the total estimated cost for a single applicant and a family of four:
a. Single Applicant:
- Visa and Immigration Fees: CAD 2,325 (ECA + IELTS + Application Fee + RPRF)
- Flight Ticket: CAD 1,000
- Settlement Funds: CAD 13,310
- Miscellaneous Costs: CAD 700 (Medical + Police Clearance + Passport + Translations)
Total: CAD 17,335 (approx. NGN 19,068,500)
b. Family of Four:
- Visa and Immigration Fees: CAD 4,400 (ECA + IELTS + Application Fee + RPRF for two adults, Child Fees for two)
- Flight Tickets: CAD 4,000 (Economy for four)
- Settlement Funds: CAD 24,733
- Miscellaneous Costs: CAD 2,000 (Medical + Police Clearance + Passports + Translations for four)
Total: CAD 35,133 (approx. NGN 38,646,300)
NOTE: This estimation doesn’t mean that you will spend up to this amount just to migrate from Nigeria to Canada, However, you will have enough money ranging within the estimation, Majority of the money fall within settlement funds which is money you need to have in your account to prove that you can feed yourself and solve some financial needs on your own within your first four to six month of arrival
Conclusion
Migrating to Canada from Nigeria involves a significant financial commitment, with costs varying depending on individual circumstances such as family size and chosen immigration program. Thorough planning and budgeting are essential to ensure a smooth transition. Despite the high initial costs, many find that the long-term benefits of living and working in Canada make this investment worthwhile.
For those considering this life-changing journey, it’s advisable to stay updated with the latest immigration policies and fees, as they can change periodically. Consulting with a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer can also provide personalized guidance tailored to your unique situation