Immigration to Canada involves government fees, professional service costs, and document expenses that add up quickly. This complete breakdown helps you budget accurately for every stage of the process.

Pre-Application Costs

Language tests: IELTS General Training costs approximately $300-$350 CAD in Canada, or equivalent in local currency internationally. CELPIP costs approximately $280-$300 CAD. TEF Canada costs approximately $300-$450 CAD. If you need to retake tests to improve scores, budget accordingly — many candidates take the test two or three times. Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): WES basic credential evaluation costs approximately $220 USD for the first credential, plus $50 per additional. Other designate organizations have similar fees. Rush processing is available for an additional fee. Total ECA cost: typically $200-$400 CAD equivalent. Immigration consultant or lawyer: Not required, but many applicants use one. Fees vary widely: basic Express Entry profile review $500-$1,500; full-service Express Entry support $2,000-$5,000; complex cases (PNP, refusals, sponsorships) $3,000-$15,000+.

Government Fees After Receiving an ITA

Government fees change over time. IRCC announced permanent residence fee increases effective April 30, 2026. Before paying, use IRCC’s official fee page for the exact program and family composition. Biometrics, medical exams, police certificates, translations, courier fees, and professional representation costs are separate and may vary by country and provider.

Total Estimated Costs by Situation

Single applicant, straightforward Express Entry: Language test $350 + ECA $250 + IRCC fees $1,900 + biometrics $85 + medical $300 + police certificates $75 = approximately $2,960 CAD. Couple (two applicants): Add spouse language test, ECA (if needed), IRCC fees $1,900 + biometrics $85 + medical $300 = approximately $2,285 CAD additional. Total for couple: approximately $5,200-$6,000 CAD. Family of four (2 adults + 2 children): Add two children's medical exams ($200 each) and dependent fees ($225 × 2). Total: approximately $6,500-$8,000 CAD.

Ongoing Costs After Landing

PR card: First PR card is included in your PR application. Renewal after five years: $50 CAD. Citizenship application (per adult): $630 CAD. Canadian passport (after citizenship): $160 CAD for an adult 10-year passport. Settlement costs: Housing (first and last month's rent), transportation, household setup. Budget $5,000-$15,000+ depending on city and family size for initial settlement.

Quick Planning Note

Extra checkpoint: If you are comparing this route with another Canadian immigration pathway, write the two options side by side with eligibility, cost, processing risk, document difficulty, and timeline. The better route is the one that remains credible after all five factors are checked.