How Much Does It Cost to Immigrate to Canada in 2025

Canada remains one of the top destinations for foreign nationals seeking a new life through a Canadian immigration program. Whether you are applying through Express Entry, family sponsorship programs, or provincial nominee programs (PNP), understanding the costs involved is crucial for financial planning.

In this guide, we break down the application fees, settlement funds, and additional costs associated with immigrating to Canada. Whether you're a single applicant or bringing your dependent children, this article will help you budget for your immigration journey. Note that the fees reflected below are current to the date of this article.

Immigration Programs and Fees

Express Entry System

The Express Entry system is the most popular pathway for economic immigration to Canada. It manages applications for three key programs:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)

2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Application Processing Fees for Express Entry:

• Principal applicant processing fee: $1,365 CAD (includes the right of permanent residence fee)

• Spouse or common-law partner: $1,365 CAD

• Dependent children: $230 CAD per child

If applying through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), additional fees may apply depending on the province.

Learn more about our Express Entry services here.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows foreign nationals to apply for immigration with a valid job offer or a connection to a specific province. Fees vary by province:

• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): $1,500 – $2,000 CAD

• British Columbia PNP (BC PNP): $1,450 CAD

• Other provinces: $250 – $1,500 CAD

Each provincial program has its own eligibility criteria, including work experience, language test results, and job offers.

Family Sponsorship

The family sponsorship programs allow family class applicants to bring their spouse, children, parents, or grandparents to Canada.

Sponsorship Application Fees:

• Spouse or common-law partner: $1,080 CAD

• Dependent children: $150 CAD per child

• Parent or grandparent processing fee: $1,080 CAD

To sponsor, you must meet the financial requirements and show you can support your family member financially.

See how we can assist with your family sponsorship application.

Business Immigration Programs

For entrepreneurs and investors, Canada offers business immigration programs such as the Start-Up Visa Program and provincial entrepreneur streams.

• Start-Up Visa application fee: $2,140 CAD

• Provincial entrepreneur programs: $1,500 – $3,500 CAD

These programs typically require proof of financial investment and a business plan aligned with Canada’s economic needs.

Study in Canada: Study Permits and Fees

If you're coming to Canada as an international student, you'll need a study permit, which costs $150 CAD. Additional costs include:

• Medical exams: $250 – $500 CAD

• International health insurance: $600 – $1,000 CAD per year

• Tuition fees: $15,000 – $40,000 CAD per year (varies by program and province)

Many students later transition to permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class or provincial nominee programs.

Temporary Work Permits

Many skilled workers move to Canada through work permits under a Canadian company. Some options include:

• Employer-Specific Work Permit: $155 CAD

• Open Work Permit: $255 CAD

• Free Trade Agreement (FTA) work permits: Costs vary based on country agreements

A valid job offer can improve your chances of securing PR through Express Entry or PNPs.

Explore work permit options here.

Settlement Funds and Living Costs

Beyond application processing fees, the Canadian government requires proof of settlement funds for most applicants. This ensures you have enough money to support yourself and your family size.

Required Settlement Funds for Express Entry (2025)

These funds must be readily available and cannot be borrowed.

Additional Immigration Costs

Aside from government fees, consider these costs:

• Airline tickets: $500 – $2,500 CAD per person

• Passport renewal: $100 – $300 CAD

• Super Visa for Parents/Grandparents: $100 CAD per applicant

• Temporary resident visas (TRV): $100 CAD per applicant

Some applicants may need to independently sponsor themselves if they do not qualify under a family class.

Cost of Living in Canada

Once you arrive, you’ll need to budget for monthly expenses, including:

• Rent: $1,500 – $3,000 CAD (varies by city)

• Groceries: $300 – $800 CAD per month

• Transportation: $100 – $200 CAD per month

• Healthcare (if not covered): $75 – $150 CAD per month

Cities like Toronto and Vancouver are more expensive, while other provinces offer a lower cost of living.

Tips for Managing Immigration Costs

1. Plan your finances early – Ensure you have sufficient settlement funds before applying.

2. Take advantage of free assessments – Many Canadian immigration programs offer free eligibility checks.

3. Consider provincial programs – Some other provinces have lower PNP application fees.

4. Improve your Express Entry score – A higher language test score can increase your PR chances.

5. Explore payment plans – Some legal services allow staged payments for applications.

Is Canada Worth the Cost?

Immigrating to Canada requires a significant financial commitment, but the long-term benefits of permanent residence outweigh the initial expenses. Whether you’re applying through Express Entry, family sponsorship, or a work permit, proper financial planning is key.

If you are ready to start your journey, schedule a consultation with our Senior Lawyer and Certified Immigration Specialist, Aminder, today, and let us help you with your application to immigrate to Canada.

Legal Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal advice, consult the relevant legislation or regulations, or contact our immigration lawyers directly.