Ancestry Visa Costs/Proving Financial stability/Housing

[cabradle]

Hi again,

I'm looking to find out a few things about the ancestry visa that I am planning to apply for. I am a canadian citizen and have all the docs ready to apply.

What is the cost for applying?

If I use a third party is the process quicker? If I do not use a third party how long would you predict it could take? I've been told 3-4 weeks.

When it comes to proving financial stability, do I have to have a certain amount of pounds in my account? (or $$) How much must I have? Is there anyway around this? I think I could get a loan off of a family member, but would they accept me in if I got the loan, and the funds were deposited but haven't sat in the account untouched for 3 months?

Also, I must prove housing arrangements. I will stay with my girlfriend for the first 2 weeks, what do I do to prove this? Is a signed letter from her, as well as a copy of her lease acceptable?

Thanks,

Cam