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Canada continues to be one of the most popular places for migration from the UAE. However, the most common question we often get from clients is, How much will it cost to migrate to Canada from Dubai? Relocating to a new country is a big decision. As an immigrant, how much you will earn vs. how much you will spend on living expenses is an essential consideration. Remember that Canada has a range of cities and regions where you can live, depending on the lifestyle you are looking for, and the amount you are willing to spend on basic living costs. Before moving, it is a good idea to calculate how much this will cost you. For example, Vancouver may be one of the most expensive cities to live in; however, Winnipeg, Manitoba, costs considerably less than most cities in North America. 

In the chart below, you will find the average cost of living expenses in Canada with rent across a few cities in Canada. This should give you a good picture of how much housing will cost when you move to Canada. Rent is usually the biggest expense for anyone in any city and is therefore important to calculate your day-to-day costs.

  CITY    RENTAL COST (3 Bedroom Apartment)
  Toronto (City Center)    $3800+/per month  
  Toronto (Outside City Center)    $1100+/per month
  Vancouver (City Center)    $3800+/per month
  Vancouver (Outside City Center)    $2000+/per month
  Winnipeg (City Center)    $1650+/per month
  Winnipeg (Outside City Center)    $1100+/per month
  Halifax (City Center)    $2200+/per month
  Halifax (Outside City Center)    $1300+/per month

Most families will spend anywhere between 35% to 50% of their total income on cost-of-living expenses. These include utilities, transportation, food, and clothing, as well as some occasional expenses. For a typical family of four to live, the estimated annual cost averages around $5200 CND per month. This does not include rent. The average salary is what will keep you going when you move to a country like Canada. It is important to note that salaries can differ dramatically from one city or region to the next as cities often adjust salaries to match living expenses. The average net salary per month is around $3200 CND after tax. According to salaryexplorer.com, someone working in Canada will typically earn around $120,000 CND, while salaries can range from $22,000 CND to $534,000 CND. This will also differ according to the position you are taking. As a newcomer, you may end up making less than in your home country as you acquire Canadian skills and work experience. For others, you will find that the salary in Canada is much higher than in your home country. Outside of the various living expenses that migrating to Canada can bring, the country’s “free” resources are one of the main reasons for UAE to Canada immigration.

Why should you move from Dubai to Canada?

Here are some reasons why you should migrate to Canada:

1. Free Health Care System

Canada’s healthcare system is funded by the country’s tax system. This allows Canadians to maintain their health in a no-cost system. There are no fees for a doctor’s visit or going to the emergency room, irrespective of the number of visits made. 

2.Education System

Canadians can enjoy the free public school system for children up to the age of 18. For post-secondary education, the prices in Canada are relatively low in comparison to countries like the U.S. and U.K. Annual tuition at universities usually ranges between $6000 CND/per year to $60,000 CND/per year, depending on the program you choose. Canadian residents may also enjoy relatively lower tuition rates as compared to international students who are attending Canadian universities from abroad. 

3. Freedom to Start a Business

Once residency is achieved, expats can start a business in Canada. There are of course legal steps you must take (such as registering your business with the government, and ensuring you have obtained any or all licenses and permits you may need from all three levels of the government). This means Canadian citizens have the potential to reach their full potential and realise their business dreams in Canada.

4. Tolerant Towards Immigrants

The world-famous Canadian hospitality extends far beyond civil politeness. Canada is one of the most tolerant countries in the world and consistently ranks highly for accepting legal imports – with just under 1% of the population being imported annually in the last two decades. 

This makes Canada an extremely attractive destination for would-be immigrants due to their high tolerance levels for foreign nationals and culture of kindness and positivity. 

5. Standard of Living

Everyone has different expectations as to their standard of living. It is important to remember that the cost of living may be higher than what you are accustomed to in your home country. However, you will also gain a lot from living in the land of opportunities that will help you to secure a positive future.

Moving to Canada from the UAE is an exciting opportunity for those seeking a new chapter in life. Canada offers a diverse and welcoming environment with high living standards and excellent social services. 

What are the Options to Immigrate to Canada from the UAE?

Many people move to Canada from the UAE every year for permanent residence and citizenship. To make the move, you’ll need to navigate the immigration process, potentially through programs.

  1. Express Entry 
  2. Provincial Economic Class
  3. Business Immigration, including the Canada Start-Up Visa Program
  4. Family Class Sponsorship

It’s essential to research your options, gather the necessary documentation, and seek legal advice if needed. Once you arrive, you’ll experience Canada’s stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and numerous opportunities for a fulfilling life in the Great White North.

Cost of Moving from Dubai to Canada

CategoryDubai (USD)Canada (USD)
Housing (Rent)HighVaries by city
GroceriesModerateModerate to High
Dining OutModerate to HighModerate
TransportationModerateModerate to High
UtilitiesModerateModerate
HealthcareModerate to HighModerate to High
EducationModerate to HighModerate to High
EntertainmentModerate to HighModerate to High

Conclusion:

StepGlobal is a certified immigration consultant and lawyer in the UAE, who guides every individual and family through the process of immigrating from Dubai to the U.S. and Canada.

We have 12 years of experience with the legal requirements and procedures for obtaining visas and work permits. We also assist with the Canada Start UP Visa, U.S. EB-5 visa programPortugal Golden Visa, and provide support throughout the entire U.S. & Canada immigration process.

Individuals can more easily navigate the complex immigration procedure by consulting our immigration lawyers.

FAQs

These costs are not an exact science and will vary from individual to individual. However, typical costs that an individual will incur when moving to Canada from the UAE are: 

  • Application fees
  • Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
  • Language tests (such as the IELTS)
  • Medical Examinations
  • Police Certificates
  • Proof of Funds
  • Biometrics

There are also likely to be a number of miscellaneous costs alongside those listed above. Partnering with a reputable legal firm is a recommended way of assessing individual circumstances and getting a closer idea of what the costs might be.

One of the most efficient and consistent (in terms of approval rates) ways to move from the UAE to Canada is through the Canada Start Up Visa Program. This program helps entrepreneurs or business people open a branch of their business in Canada in exchange for citizenship.

This cost will vary from applicant to applicant and isn’t a fixed fee. To find out how much an application would cost, it is advisory to partner with a licensed immigration firm.

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