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Moving to Canada: visas, provinces and costs
Apply for permanent residence (Express Entry or Provincial Nominee) only after confirming you meet eligibility; otherwise consider a work, study or IEC permit.
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Applies to
Clear answers on which visa you need, province options, and cost estimates for moving to Canada in 2026. Step‑by‑step guide with fees, processing times and regional differences.
Key facts
- Main visa routes
- Express Entry (Federal) or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Typical processing timecheck
- 6–12 months for permanent residence applications
- Visa application feecheck
- CAD 1,325 for principal applicant (Express Entry) or CAD 1,500–2,500 for PNP
- Cost of living (monthly)
- Backpacker CAD 1,100–1,700; Mid‑range CAD 2,500–3,800; Comfort CAD 4,500+ (2026 estimate)
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Quick answer
If you want to live and work in Canada long‑term, apply for permanent residence via Express Entry (points‑based) or a Provincial Nominee Program that matches your skills. For short stays, use a work permit, study permit or the Working Holiday (IEC) if eligible.
Who does it apply to?
Applicants must be non‑Canadian citizens, meet health and security checks, and have sufficient language ability (English or French). Permanent residence requires points for age, education, work experience and language. Provincial programs may add criteria such as a job offer or study in that province.
Do
- Check if your occupation is on the National Occupation Classification (NOC) list for Express Entry.
- If you have a Canadian partner or family, spousal sponsorship may be faster.
Watch out
- Misrepresenting information can lead to a five‑year ban.
Show 4 sectionsHideSteps, costs and timelines, Choosing a province, Questions people ask, Related
Steps, costs and timelines
1. Choose a visa route (Express Entry, PNP, work/study permit).
2. Take an approved language test (IELTS or TEF).
3. Gather documents: passport, education credentials, work letters, police certificates.
4. Create an online profile (Express Entry) or submit a provincial nomination application.
5. Pay fees: CAD 1,325 for Express Entry principal, CAD 1,500–2,500 for most PNPs (check).
6. Wait for invitation to apply (ITA) or provincial nomination.
7. Submit permanent residence application, pay CAD 850 right‑of‑permanent‑residence fee, and medical exam.
8. Receive decision (6–12 months typical, check).
| Visa type | Eligibility | Fee (CAD) | Processing time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express Entry | Points‑based, no job offer required | check | check |
| Provincial Nominee | Job offer or study in province | check | check |
| Work permit | Employer‑specific LMIA or open work permit | check | check |
| Study permit | Accepted by a DLI, proof of funds | check | check |
Fees and processing times are 2026 estimates; check official site for exact amounts.
Do
- Processing times vary by province; Atlantic provinces often faster under the Atlantic Immigration Pilot.
- Use the official Government of Canada portal (cic.gc.ca) for all submissions.
Watch out
- Fees are non‑refundable even if the application is refused.
- LMIA requirements and misrepresentation penalties should be verified on the official site (check).
Choosing a province
Cost of living, job markets and language requirements differ. Below is a quick comparison of major provinces for newcomers.
| Province | Average monthly rent (1‑bed) | Key industries | Language requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | CAD 1,800–2,200 | Finance, tech, manufacturing | English; French optional |
| British Columbia | check | Tech, film, natural resources | English; French optional |
| Alberta | check | Energy, agriculture, tech | English |
| Quebec | check | Aerospace, AI, tourism | French mandatory for many jobs |
| Nova Scotia | check | Maritime, health, education | English |
Rent ranges are 2026 estimates for city centres; suburbs are cheaper (check).
Do
- If you speak French, Quebec and New Brunswick offer additional points in Express Entry.
- Atlantic provinces have lower living costs and specific immigration streams.
Questions people ask
Moving to Canada: what is the short answer?
Apply for permanent residence via Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee if you plan to stay long‑term; otherwise use a work, study or IEC permit.
Who does it apply to?
Non‑Canadian citizens who meet health, security and language criteria. Specific programs add job‑offer or study requirements.
How much does it cost and how long does it take?
Visa fees range from CAD 150 for a study permit to CAD 1,500–2,500 for a Provincial Nominee. Permanent residence processing typically 6–12 months.
Can I work while waiting for permanent residence?
Yes, if you have a valid work permit or an open work permit under the spousal or post‑graduation stream.
Which province is cheapest to live in?
Atlantic provinces such as Nova Scotia and New Brunswick have the lowest average rents and overall cost of living.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check and were last checked Sep 2026
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