Cost of Immigration to Canada from Pakistan: What You Need to Know

Navigating the immigration process to Canada from Pakistan involves understanding various costs and requirements. This comprehensive guide will break down the costs associated with different types of visas, application fees, and additional expenses you should be prepared for. Whether you're applying for permanent residency, a study permit, or a work permit, knowing these costs will help you plan and budget effectively.

1. Permanent Residency Application Costs
The primary pathway for many immigrants from Pakistan is applying for permanent residency through the Express Entry system. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the costs involved:

1.1. Application Fees
The application fee for a single applicant is approximately CAD 1,325. This fee covers the cost of processing your application and is non-refundable. If you’re applying with a spouse, the fee increases to CAD 2,650. Additional fees apply if you include dependent children in your application.

1.2. Medical Examination
A medical examination is required for all applicants. This cost varies but typically ranges between CAD 100 and CAD 300 per person. The examination must be performed by an approved panel physician, which may also involve additional costs.

1.3. Police Clearance Certificates
Obtaining police clearance certificates from Pakistan and any other country where you have lived in the past 10 years can cost around CAD 50 to CAD 100 per certificate.

1.4. Biometrics Fee
The biometrics fee is CAD 85 per person, with a maximum fee of CAD 170 for a family. Biometrics include fingerprinting and photographing, essential for verifying your identity.

1.5. Language Tests
For most immigration programs, you need to prove your language proficiency in English or French. Language test fees are typically CAD 300 to CAD 350, depending on the test provider.

2. Study Permit Costs
For those looking to study in Canada, the study permit application also comes with its own set of costs:

2.1. Application Fee
The fee for a study permit application is CAD 150. If you are applying for a study permit extension, the fee remains the same.

2.2. Biometrics Fee
As with permanent residency, the biometrics fee for a study permit application is CAD 85 per person.

2.3. Medical Examination
Some study permit applicants may need a medical examination, especially if they plan to work during their studies or are coming from a country with specific health risks. This examination typically costs between CAD 100 and CAD 300.

2.4. Language Tests
International students often need to provide proof of English proficiency. The cost for language tests like IELTS or TOEFL is around CAD 300 to CAD 350.

3. Work Permit Costs
Work permits are another common route for immigrants. The costs associated with obtaining a work permit include:

3.1. Application Fee
The fee for a work permit application is CAD 155. For an open work permit, the fee is the same.

3.2. Biometrics Fee
As with other applications, the biometrics fee is CAD 85 per person.

3.3. Medical Examination
Depending on the nature of your job, a medical examination may be required. The cost typically ranges from CAD 100 to CAD 300.

3.4. Language Tests
If your work permit requires proof of language skills, you’ll need to pay for language tests, which cost about CAD 300 to CAD 350.

4. Additional Costs
Besides the direct application fees, there are other costs to consider:

4.1. Translation Services
Documents not in English or French need to be translated by a certified translator. Translation fees can range from CAD 50 to CAD 200 per document.

4.2. Document Preparation
Preparing and gathering necessary documents, including certified copies and affidavits, might incur additional costs. This can vary widely based on the complexity and number of documents.

4.3. Immigration Consultant Fees
If you choose to hire an immigration consultant to assist with your application, fees can range from CAD 1,000 to CAD 3,000 or more, depending on the level of service provided.

4.4. Travel Expenses
If you need to travel for interviews or document submissions, factor in travel costs. This can include airfare, accommodation, and transportation.

5. Summary of Costs
To give you a clearer picture, here’s a summarized table of costs associated with each type of application:

Type of Application	Application Fee	Medical Exam	Biometrics	Language Test	Police Clearance	Translation	Consultant Fees	Travel Expenses
Permanent Residency	CAD 1,325 - 2,650	CAD 100 - 300	CAD 85	CAD 300 - 350	CAD 50 - 100	CAD 50 - 200	CAD 1,000 - 3,000	Varies
Study Permit	CAD 150	CAD 100 - 300	CAD 85	CAD 300 - 350	N/A	CAD 50 - 200	CAD 1,000 - 3,000	Varies
Work Permit	CAD 155	CAD 100 - 300	CAD 85	CAD 300 - 350	N/A	CAD 50 - 200	CAD 1,000 - 3,000	Varies

Understanding these costs can help you prepare financially for the immigration process. Be sure to check the latest information from official Canadian immigration sources as fees and requirements can change.