Total Cost for Canada PR from India: What You Need to Know Before You Start

It wasn't the staggering cost that hit him first—it was the realization of how intricate the entire process was. Sitting on the edge of his seat in a bustling Delhi office, Rajesh had just completed another round of payments towards his Canada PR (Permanent Residency) application. In that moment, he began to wonder, "How much is this going to cost me by the time I’m done?" The financial road to Canada from India isn't a simple one, and understanding the costs is critical to avoid unforeseen financial strain.

Many aspiring immigrants fall into the trap of underestimating the overall cost of securing a Canada PR from India. Spoiler alert: It's not just the application fees. When you factor in hidden costs like medical exams, proof of funds, language tests, and professional services, the final figure can quickly escalate. But what exactly do these costs entail? And how can you manage them?

The Breakdown of Costs: What You’ll Pay Along the Way

To give you a clear picture, here’s an overview of the main expenses:

1. Express Entry Application Fees

• Principal Applicant: CAD 1,365 (approx. ₹83,000)
• Spouse: CAD 1,365 (approx. ₹83,000)
• Dependent Children: CAD 230 per child (approx. ₹14,000)

2. Language Proficiency Tests

Most applicants take either IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program). These are critical for your Express Entry profile.

• IELTS Exam Fee: ₹15,500
• CELPIP Exam Fee: CAD 280 (approx. ₹17,000)

3. Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

Your qualifications need to be assessed for Canadian equivalence by a designated organization.

• World Education Services (WES) Fee: CAD 240 (approx. ₹14,500)

4. Medical Examination

A mandatory step for Canada PR, medical tests ensure that applicants are in good health.

• Medical Fees: ₹5,500 to ₹9,000, depending on the clinic and location.

5. Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

This proves that you don’t have a criminal record. In India, it can be obtained from regional passport offices or the local police station.

• PCC Fee: ₹500

6. Proof of Funds

You must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support yourself and your family upon arrival in Canada. The required amount varies based on the number of family members.

• Required Funds (for a single applicant): CAD 13,757 (approx. ₹840,000)
• For a family of four: CAD 25,564 (approx. ₹1,560,000)

It’s important to note that you don’t actually "pay" this amount to the Canadian government, but you need to have it in liquid assets (bank accounts, fixed deposits, etc.) to prove financial stability.

Professional Services: To Use or Not to Use?

Now, you might be wondering whether you should go at it alone or hire an immigration consultant. While it’s possible to complete the process without a professional, some applicants choose to work with immigration consultants for guidance through the complex process.

• Consultant Fees: ₹50,000 to ₹200,000 (or more), depending on the firm and services offered.

Additional Costs You Should Prepare For

Travel and Relocation Expenses

Once your PR application is approved, the costs don't stop. Relocating to Canada involves airfare, temporary accommodation, and initial living expenses.

• One-way flight to Canada: ₹50,000 to ₹100,000 per person
• Temporary Accommodation (1 month): CAD 1,500 to CAD 2,500 (₹91,000 to ₹150,000), depending on the city

Settlement Costs

Living in Canada comes with its own set of expenses, especially during your first few months while you settle in.

• First Month’s Rent: CAD 1,200 to CAD 2,000 (approx. ₹73,000 to ₹122,000)
• Basic Utilities and Internet: CAD 300 to CAD 500 (₹18,000 to ₹30,000)

Can You Cut Costs? Tips for Saving

There are a few ways to manage costs effectively. For instance, you can save money by preparing your own documents, avoiding unnecessary professional services, or opting for less expensive accommodation during the settlement period. Additionally, choosing a province with lower living costs, such as New Brunswick or Manitoba, can help stretch your budget during the initial months in Canada.

Timing is key—consider when the best time is to transfer funds and make payments, as currency exchange rates fluctuate.

Total Estimated Cost: The Final Number

Let’s add it up for a single applicant:

• Express Entry Fees: ₹83,000
• IELTS Fee: ₹15,500
• ECA Fee: ₹14,500
• Medical Exam: ₹7,000
• PCC: ₹500
• Proof of Funds: ₹840,000 (not payable but necessary for documentation)
• Flight: ₹75,000
• First Month’s Rent & Utilities: ₹91,000 + ₹18,000 = ₹109,000

Total: ₹1,139,500 (approx. CAD 18,600), excluding consultant fees and other personal expenses.

For a family of four, the costs can reach over ₹2,000,000 (approx. CAD 32,800), considering higher settlement and proof of funds requirements.

The Emotional Cost: Is It Worth It?

It’s easy to get lost in the numbers, but the real cost of the Canada PR process isn't just financial—it’s emotional. The journey involves paperwork, long wait times, and uncertainties that can test your patience. However, the payoff—a better life, opportunities for your family, and the chance to build a future in one of the world’s most prosperous nations—can make it all worthwhile.

In Conclusion

While the road to Canadian Permanent Residency from India is paved with costs—both visible and hidden—the journey is manageable with proper planning and budgeting. By understanding the expenses and preparing accordingly, you can navigate the process without facing financial surprises.

Are you ready to take the plunge?