Thinking about moving to Canada in 2025 or 2026 through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)? You’re not alone—Canada remains one of the most sought-after destinations for skilled workers and families around the world. With high living standards, public healthcare, and excellent educational institutions, the dream of permanent residency is more achievable than ever.
But before you dive in, it’s essential to understand the true cost of immigrating to Canada. Whether you’re applying alone or with your family, proper budgeting is a key part of the journey.
Let’s break down the estimated expenses you can expect under both Express Entry and PNP streams for the 2025–2026 immigration cycle.
Total Estimated Cost for Single/Couple Applicants for Canadian Visa
| Applicant Type | Estimated Total Cost (CAD$) | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Single Applicant | $16,200 – $18,100+ | Language tests, ECA, medicals, IRCC fees, proof of funds |
| Couple | $21,500 – $23,800+ | Includes fees for spouse and family proof of funds |
Note: Costs can vary depending on your country of residence, visa stream, and specific documentation needs. PNP fees and travel costs are not included in the base estimate.
Detailed Breakdown of Immigration Costs for Canada in (2025–2026)
Following 7 parameters are basic parameters to gauge the total estimated cost to apply for immigration programs of Canada in 2025:
1# Language Proficiency Test
-
- Required for: All economic immigration programs (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, TCF)
- Cost: CAD$ 250 – 400 per person
- Note: Spouses may also need to take the test to increase CRS score.
2# Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
- Required for: Foreign academic degrees/diplomas (e.g., via WES, ICAS)
- Cost: CAD$ 240 – 280 + delivery
- WES charges CAD$ 256 + delivery fees (CAD$ 28 in Canada / CAD$ 95 internationally)
- Note: Typically only required for the principal applicant.
3# Biometrics
- Cost: CAD$ 85 per person or CAD$ 170 per family
- Required for: All permanent residence applications.
4# Federal Application Fees (IRCC)
| Fee Type | Cost (CAD$) |
|---|---|
| Principal Applicant | $950 |
| Spouse/Common-law Partner | $950 |
| Dependent Child (per child) | $260 |
| Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) per adult | $575 |
✅ RPRF is refundable if the application is refused or withdrawn before finalization.
5# Medical Examination
- Required for: All applicants and dependents
- Cost: CAD$ 150 – 500+ per person
- Note: Costs vary by country, age, and clinic.
6# Proof of Settlement Funds (2025)
Only required for:
- Federal Skilled Worker (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades (FSTP)
- Some PNPs.
| Family Size | Funds Required (CAD$) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $13,757 |
| 2 people | $17,127 |
| 3 people | $21,055 |
| 4 people | $25,564 |
| 5 people | $28,994 |
| 6 people | $32,700 |
| 7 people | $36,407 |
| Each additional | +$3,706 |
Not required for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) applicants or those with a valid job offer.
7# Miscellaneous Costs
- Estimated Cost: CAD$ 200 – 500+
- Includes:
- Police clearance certificates
- Certified translations
- Courier and postal fees
- Passport-sized photos
- Notary services.
Optional: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Application Fees
If you’re applying through a PNP, you may incur additional fees charged by the province. Here’s a list of current 2025 fees:
| Province/Territory | Application Fee (CAD$) | Free to Apply? |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta (AAIP) | $0 | ✅ Yes |
| Nova Scotia (NSNP) | $0 | ✅ Yes |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $0 | ✅ Yes |
| Yukon | $0 | ✅ Yes |
| Northwest Territories | $0 | ✅ Yes |
| Ontario (OINP) | $1,500 – $2,000 | ❌ No |
| British Columbia (BC PNP) | $1,150 – $1,475 | ❌ No |
| Manitoba (MPNP) | $500 | ❌ No |
| Saskatchewan (SINP) | $350 | ❌ No |
| New Brunswick (NBPNP) | $250 | ❌ No |
| PEI (PEI PNP) | $300 | ❌ No |
️ Pro Tip: Applying to a PNP with no application fee can help reduce your total immigration budget, especially for families.
Single/Couple Cost Comparison for a Visa Applicant for Canada (2025)
| Category | Single (CAD$) | Couple (CAD$) |
|---|---|---|
| Language Test | 250 – 400 | 500 – 800 |
| ECA | 270 – 380 | 270 – 380 |
| Biometrics | 85 | 170 |
| Federal Fees + RPRF | 1,525 | 3,050 |
| Medical Exam | 150 – 500+ | 300 – 1,000+ |
| Miscellaneous | 200 – 500+ | 200 – 500+ |
| Subtotal | 2,480 – 4,385+ | 4,390 – 6,700+ |
| Settlement Funds | 13,757 | 17,127 |
| Estimated Total (Min) | 16,237 | 21,517 |
| Estimated Total (Max) | 18,142+ | 23,827+ |