Globally, Canada is rated very high for having an excellent quality of life, a well-developed public education system, and access to healthcare. In 2020, Canada was ranked second as the best country (overall) in the world by the U.S. News., dominating the rankings with high scores in the quality of life, citizenship and business categories. Some other important factors that make Canada an attractive country on the global stage are its multicultural population and welcoming immigration policies.
Moving to a new country is not only a huge life decision but also requires a substantial financial commitment. In this article, we will share the total cost breakdown for a few key types of applications – Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), a study permit, and a working holiday visa.
Read the following articles for more insight on how different immigration programs work:
- How to move to Canada and get permanent residence (PR)
- How Express Entry works: Moving to Canada as a permanent resident (PR)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): Moving to Canada as a permanent resident (PR)
- Family Sponsorship: Moving to Canada as a permanent resident (PR)
- Study Permit: Moving to Canada as an international student
- An international student’s guide to permanent residency in Canada
- How to apply for a Canadian student permit through the Student Direct Stream (SDS)
Cost of applying for immigration to Canada through Express Entry and the PNP
Generally speaking, as an individual applicant, you would need approximately $15,500 CAD to immigrate to Canada. Couples would need around $21,000 CAD while families with children will require between $25,000 to $30,000 CAD. The table below provides a detailed breakdown of expected immigration costs.
Last updated on May 4, 2023; all figures in CAD.
| Fee Type | Notes | Individual | Couple | Couple + 1 Child | Couple + 2 Children |
| Language tests (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF) | Average cost. | 300 | 600 | 600 | 600 |
| Educational Credential Evaluation (ECA) | Cost excluding international courier delivery charges. | 200 | 400 | 400 | 400 |
| Biometrics | Charges for 2 or more people remain the same provided all members are applying at the same time and place. | 85 | 170 | 170 | 170 |
| Medical exams | Average cost; fee varies by country. | 100 | 200 | 300 | 400 |
| Application processing fee | 850 | 1,700 | 1,930 | 2,160 | |
| Right of permanent residence fee | 515 | 1,030 | 1,030 | 1,030 | |
| Miscellaneous fees (police certificate, transcripts, courier delivery, photos, notaries, translations, etc.) | Average (assumed) cost. | 250 | 500 | 600 | 700 |
| Settlement funds | Not applicable for Canadian Experience Class (CEC). | 13,757 | 17,127 | 21,055 | 25,564 |
| TOTAL | 16,057 | 21,727 | 26,085 | 31,024 |
Those applying through the PNP, are required to pay additional application fees based on the province they are applying to. Here is an overview of the provincial fees:
Last updated on May 4, 2023
Notes
- Quebec has an independent immigration program for skilled workers.
- The territories – Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon have provincial nominee programs driven by business or employer job offer streams.
 Tip:The figures outlined here only include the cost of filing an immigration application. In addition to these costs, you will need to budget for your flight, accommodation, and other living expenses. Use Arrive’s cost of living calculator to plan your finances as you prepare for your life in Canada. |
Cost of applying for a Canadian study permit for international students
Unlike the Express Entry or PNP, calculating the total cost of applying for a student permit is slightly complex as universities and colleges have different application fees. You must be accepted into a Canadian Designated Learning Institution in order to be able to apply for a study permit. Here’s a broad overview of the costs you can expect:
Last updated on February 23, 2021
| Fee Type | Cost per individual ($ CAD) |
| University/college application fees: These are processing fees charged by the university. This fee is non-refundable irrespective of whether or not you get accepted. Note that some colleges don’t charge an application fee. | Ranges between100 to 500 |
| Study permit application fee | 150 |
| Biometrics fee | Individual: 85 2 or more people applying at the same time and place: 170 |
| Language testing (if required) | Average cost: 300 |
| Medical exams (if required) | Fee varies by country. Average cost: 100 |
| Miscellaneous expenses (police certificate, transcripts, courier delivery, photos, notaries, translations, etc.) | Average (assumed) cost: 250 |
| Tuition fees | Varies by programs/courses and the college or university you enrol at. Average annual tuition 2021/2022: |
| Health insurance | 600 to 1,000 |
| Funds to support your stay and/or a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) | All provinces except Quebec: 10,000 per year. In Quebec: 11,000 per year More details available on the government of Canada website. |
Get your GIC with RBC |
Tip:
|
Cost of applying for International Experience Canada (IEC) – Working Holiday Visa for Canada
IEC allows eligible individuals to apply for a Working Holiday Visa. To apply through this program, youth from over 30 countries can apply to live and work in Canada. These are countries that have an agreement with Canada for allowing its citizens to apply for an IEC work permit. The permits are valid for either 12 or 24 months, depending on your country of citizenship. More details about this program are available on the Government website.
Here is an overview of some of the fees for the working holiday visa:
Last updated on February 23, 2021
| Fee Type | Cost ($ CAD) |
| IEC participation fee | 156 |
| Open work permit holder fee | 100 |
| Biometrics fee | 85 |
| Medical exam (if required) | Fee varies by country. Average cost: 100 |
| Minimum funds to support your stay | 2,500 |
| Health insurance | Starts from approximately 400 per year, varies by coverage amount and deductible. |
Having sufficient finances to support your application process as well as life in Canada is an essential factor while you apply to immigrate. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the limits set by the Canadian government so you can plan your move with confidence.
Things our lawyers want you to know
This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsem*nt of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.
Related Posts
About Arrive
Arrive makes it easier for newcomers and international students to make a smooth landing in Canada by providing the information and guidance they need. Arrive provides up to date, informative articles, guides, webinars, digital tools and expert advice to help newcomers prepare for their arrival, and adapt to the Canadian job market and cultural landscape. Students can get ready for their Canadian studies, so that they are set up for academic and professional success in Canada.
Arrive is supported by Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), the largest bank in Canada* and one of the most reputed banks in the world, employing 80,000 people worldwide. This places us in a unique position to be able to help and support newcomers, like yourself, with credible and reliable resources that can help you get started while setting up a strong financial foundation in Canada.
*Based on market capitalization
We will only collect, use and disclose your personal information for the purpose you provided it. We will not sell your personal information to any third parties. If you have any questions, see our Privacy Policy or Contact Us.
Note: California residents see our California Privacy Notice.
Get the latest updates, resources, and stories about the Canadian experience.
