Costs of Common Immigration Paths to Canada
When planning your immigration to Canada, it’s crucial to understand that the costs associated with each immigration path can vary significantly. Each program has its own fee structures and requirements, making it essential to choose the path that best suits your situation and budget. Below, we provide an overview of the most common immigration paths and their general cost descriptions. We encourage you to explore the full guides linked below each path for a thorough understanding of the specific costs involved.
Express Entry
The Express Entry system is one of the most popular ways to immigrate to Canada, designed for skilled workers who wish to become permanent residents. It includes three federal immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.
The main costs associated with Express Entry include application fees, language test fees, and educational credential assessments. The application fee for a single applicant is approximately CAD 1,325, which includes the processing fee and the right of permanent residence fee. Additional costs include language tests (about CAD 300) and educational credential assessments (around CAD 200).
For a comprehensive breakdown of all costs associated with Express Entry, be sure to read our full guide, “Canada Express Entry Guide”.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
The Provincial Nominee Program allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and who are interested in settling in a particular province. Each province has its own specific streams and criteria.
The costs for the PNP vary by province. Generally, applicants can expect to pay a nomination fee ranging from CAD 250 to CAD 1,500, depending on the province. Additional costs include language tests, educational credential assessments, and federal application fees, similar to those for Express Entry.
Family Sponsorship
Family Sponsorship allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their relatives to come to Canada as permanent residents. This program aims to reunite families by allowing close relatives to live, work, and study in Canada.
The main costs for Family Sponsorship include the sponsorship fee and the application fee. The total fee for sponsoring a spouse, partner, or child is approximately CAD 1,050. Additional costs may include biometrics fees (CAD 85 per person) and medical exams.
Business Immigration
Business Immigration programs are designed for individuals who can invest in or start businesses in Canada, contributing to the economy and creating jobs. This category includes programs like the Start-up Visa Program and the Self-employed Persons Program.
The costs associated with Business Immigration can be substantial, including investment requirements and application fees. For example, the Start-up Visa Program requires a minimum investment of CAD 200,000 from a designated Canadian venture capital fund. Application fees are approximately CAD 1,575.
Study in Canada
Obtaining a study permit allows international students to study at designated learning institutions in Canada. This path can also lead to permanent residency through various programs available to graduates.
Costs: The main costs for studying in Canada include tuition fees, which can range from CAD 7,000 to CAD 29,000 per year, depending on the institution and program. Additional costs include the study permit application fee (CAD 150), biometrics fees, and living expenses.
Temporary Worker in Canada
The Temporary Worker program allows foreign nationals to work in Canada for a specific employer and time period. This program is beneficial for those looking to gain Canadian work experience.
The costs for a temporary work permit include the application fee (CAD 155) and biometrics fees. Employers may also be required to pay additional fees, such as the employer compliance fee (CAD 230).
