New Year’s resolutions are usually about self-improvement, learning new skills, saving money, or strengthening relationships.
👉 What many people don’t realize is this:
Some of these same goals can directly improve your chances of immigrating to Canada.
If you’re planning to move to Canada, as a student, worker, visitor, or permanent resident, the motivation you feel at the start of the year can work double duty:
- Helping your personal growth
- Strengthening your immigration profile
Below are three common New Year’s resolutions and how they can quietly boost your Canadian immigration chances.
Resolution 1: Learning or Improving English or French
“This year, I’ll finally improve my English / learn French.”
Why Language Matters for Canada Immigration
Canada strongly prefers immigrants who can communicate well.
Why? Because good language skills help newcomers:
- Find jobs faster
- Settle easily
- Succeed in the workplace
Because of this, language ability is one of the most important factors in Canada’s immigration system, especially under Express Entry.
How Better Language Skills Help You
Improving your English or French can:
- Increase your CRS score (your ranking score in Express Entry)
- Make you eligible for more immigration programs
- Improve your chances in job-based and provincial programs
Extra Benefits of French 🇫🇷
French is becoming more valuable than ever in Canadian immigration.
If you learn French:
- You can earn up to 50 extra CRS points
- You may qualify for French-specific Express Entry draws
- You open doors to special provincial programs
Some programs that prefer French speakers:
- Ontario French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream
- Northwest Territories Francophone Stream
- Francophone community programs outside Quebec
👉 Even basic French ability can make a real difference.
Resolution 2: Saving More Money & Improving Financial Health
“I’ll save more money and manage my finances better this year.”
Why Savings Matter for Immigration
For many Canadian visas and PR programs, you must show that you have enough money to support yourself after arriving in Canada.
This money is called settlement funds.
Canada wants to be sure you can:
- Pay for daily living expenses
- Support your family (if they come with you)
- Avoid financial hardship
Why This Is Important
- Not having enough funds can lead to refusal
- More savings = stronger application
- Required amounts increase with family size
Examples of Required Funds (Updated Regularly)
Visitor Visa
- No fixed minimum amount
- You must prove you can support yourself and return home
Study Permit (Outside Quebec)
You must show money for:
- Tuition
- Living expenses
- Travel costs
Minimum living expenses (from Sept 1, 2025):
- 1 person: $22,895
- 2 people: $28,502
- 3 people: $35,040
Work Permits (PGWP, Open Work Permit, LMIA-based)
- No fixed amount
- Officers assess if you can support yourself and your family
Express Entry (PR)
- 1 person: $15,263
- 2 people: $19,001
- 3 people: $23,360
⚠️ Important exception:
You do NOT need proof of funds if:
- You apply under Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- OR you have a valid Canadian job offer and work authorization
Resolution 3: Supporting Your Partner
“I want to be more supportive and grow together.”
Why This Matters for Immigration
If you’re immigrating as a couple, Canada allows:
- Spouses or common-law partners to be included
- Points for your partner’s language, education, and work experience
Immigration is often stronger when treated as a team effort.
How Supporting Your Partner Helps
Helping your partner:
- Improve English or French
- Get higher education credentials
- Gain Canadian or skilled work experience
…can increase your combined score and unlock more options.
Smart Strategy for Couples
- Sometimes your partner may be the better main applicant
- Couples can create two Express Entry profiles
- Choose the one with the higher CRS score
👉 This flexibility can significantly improve your chances.
Q1: Do I need perfect English or French to immigrate to Canada?
No. Even small improvements can increase your score and eligibility.
Q2: Is learning French worth it if I don’t plan to live in Quebec?
Yes! Canada actively encourages French speakers outside Quebec, and many programs reward it.
Q3: What happens if I don’t show enough settlement funds?
Your application may be refused, even if everything else is strong.
Q4: Can my spouse really increase my immigration score?
Yes. Your spouse’s language test, education, and work experience can add valuable points.
Q5: Should couples always apply together?
Not always. Sometimes applying separately or switching the main applicant works better.
