For many aspiring immigrants, Canada stands out as a land of opportunity, boasting a high quality of life, diverse culture, and robust economy. However, the costs associated with relocating can be a significant barrier. Fortunately, there are various avenues to secure free funding to move to Canada.
In this post, we will show you practical resources to apply for to obtain financial assistance for your move to Canada. This will ensure that your relocation to Canada is as smooth and affordable as possible.
Whether you’re a student, a skilled worker, or someone seeking new opportunities, this post will provide you with the essential information to make your Canadian dream a reality without breaking the bank.
Key Takeaways
- Canadian employers often sponsor international talent, covering relocation expenses, visa fees, and sometimes providing settling-in allowances.
- Scholarships and grants can cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other essential expenses, significantly reducing the financial burden of moving to Canada.
- International organizations and NGOs, such as the Fulbright Program, Commonwealth Scholarships, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), offer financial aid to students and professionals.
Top UK Visa Sponsorship Jobs for Foreigners in 2024: Apply Now
4 Ways to Get Free Funding to Move to Canada that You Can Apply For
Here are seven ways to get funding to move to Canada:
1. Employer-Sponsored Visas and Funding
Employer-sponsored visas are designed to allow Canadian employers to hire foreign workers to fill positions that cannot be filled by the local labor market. These visas not only facilitate the immigration process but also provide financial support to the employee.
Here’s how employer-sponsored visas and funding can help you move to Canada.
Financial Support from Employers
Many employers offer comprehensive relocation packages to attract and retain international talent. These packages can include various forms of financial support, such as:
- Relocation Expenses: Employers may cover the costs associated with moving, including transportation, shipping of personal belongings, and temporary housing upon arrival in Canada.
- Visa and Permit Fees: The cost of obtaining a work permit or visa can be substantial. Many employers cover these fees as part of the sponsorship package.
- Settling-In Allowance: Some employers provide a settling-in allowance to help new employees cover initial expenses such as housing deposits, furniture, and other necessities.
- Travel Costs: Employers may also cover the cost of airfare for the employee and their family members.
Types of Employer-Sponsored Visas and Funding
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
This program allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers on a temporary basis to address labor shortages.
Employers must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to demonstrate that there is a need for a foreign worker and that no Canadian worker is available to do the job.
Once the LMIA is approved, the employer can offer a job to a foreign worker, who can then apply for a work permit.
Global Talent Stream (GTS)
Part of the TFWP, the GTS is designed for employers seeking to hire highly skilled foreign talent in specialized fields such as technology and engineering.
The GTS offers expedited processing of work permits and LMIAs, making it an attractive option for both employers and employees.
2. Government-Funded Programs
Securing government-funded programs is one of the most reliable ways to get free funding for moving to Canada. These programs are designed to attract talented individuals from around the globe, offering substantial financial support to ease the transition.
Here are some of the most prominent government-funded programs available for prospective immigrants:
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships program is one of the most prestigious awards available to doctoral students. This scholarship is open to both Canadian and international students, making it a prime opportunity for those looking to study in Canada.
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
For postdoctoral researchers, the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships provide substantial financial support. Each fellowship is valued at $70,000 per year for two years.
The program is designed to attract top-tier talent to Canada and support their research endeavors in health, natural sciences, engineering, and social sciences.
Global Affairs Canada Scholarships
Global Affairs Canada offers a range of scholarships for international students. These scholarships are part of Canada’s commitment to international education and development.
These scholarships cover tuition, travel, and living expenses, making it easier for students to gain valuable educational experiences in Canada.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship program is available to graduate students in Ontario. It supports students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees at participating institutions.
The scholarship provides $5,000 per term for up to three terms, based on academic excellence.
3. Scholarships and Grants
For international students aspiring to study in Canada, scholarships and grants provide an invaluable source of financial support. These funding opportunities can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying abroad.
Here are various scholarships and grants available for students planning to move to Canada to apply for.
McGill University Scholarships and Student Aid
McGill offers a range of entrance scholarships to international students, including major scholarships worth up to $12,000 renewable annually. These scholarships are based on academic excellence and are aimed at attracting top-tier talent to the university.
Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
Awarded to outstanding doctoral candidates in the social sciences and humanities, this scholarship provides up to $60,000 per year for three years. It supports research related to human rights, responsible citizenship, Canada and the world, and people and their natural environment.
Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
This initiative provides short-term exchange opportunities for students from ASEAN countries. The scholarship covers expenses such as tuition, airfare, and living costs, facilitating a smoother transition for students moving to Canada.
4. International Financial Aid and Organizations
Various global institutions and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) offer grants, scholarships, and other forms of financial assistance to help individuals relocate and settle in a new country.
Here’s are some international financial aid and organizations that provide funding to move to Canada.
Financial Aid from International Development Agencies
International development agencies often provide grants and funding for individuals from developing countries to pursue education and training in Canada. Examples include, the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and World Bank Scholarships.
Grants from Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
NGOs play a significant role in providing financial assistance to individuals moving to Canada, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds or conflict-affected regions.
Examples of NGO programs to apply for include International Organization for Migration (IOM), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and World University Service of Canada (WUSC).
Scholarships from International Organizations
Several international organizations offer scholarships to students and professionals seeking to further their education or careers in Canada. These scholarships often cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. examples include Fulbright Program, Commonwealth Scholarships, and Erasmus+ Program.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What types of scholarships are available for international students moving to Canada?
International students have access to a variety of scholarships to help fund their education and move to Canada. These include University-Specific Scholarships, Government-Funded Scholarships, and, Provincial Scholarships.
2. How can I find employer-sponsored visa opportunities to move to Canada?
To find employer-sponsored visa opportunities in Canada, you can research Canadian companies, use job portals, or leverage professional networks.
3. What international financial aid options are available for moving to Canada?
Several international organizations and NGOs offer financial aid to help individuals move to Canada. These include Fulbright Program, Commonwealth Scholarships, and International NGOs.