Canada Permanent Resident Visa: How Much Does It Really Cost?

Spoiler alert: it’s not just about the visa fees. If you’ve been thinking about moving to Canada as a permanent resident, you might already know about the perks: universal healthcare, a high quality of life, and some of the best landscapes in the world. But what’s less clear is the actual cost of securing that coveted PR (Permanent Resident) status.

In many cases, people focus only on the official visa fees, thinking that once you’ve paid those, you’re all set to start your new life in Canada. But here’s the catch—there are several other hidden costs that can sneak up on you during the application process. It’s not just about paying the government and showing up; it’s about medical exams, proof of funds, legal fees, and more.

Let’s start with the basics:

1. Government Fees
The official government fee for applying for permanent residency in Canada varies depending on the type of application. Here’s a breakdown:

• Express Entry: This is the most popular route. For a single applicant, the processing fee is CAD 1,365 (approx. USD 1,000), including the right of permanent residence fee (CAD 515). If you’re applying with a spouse, add another CAD 1,365. Got kids? Each dependent child costs an additional CAD 230.

• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Fees here range from CAD 250 to CAD 3,000, depending on the province.

• Business Immigration: If you’re a business applicant, expect to pay CAD 1,575 to CAD 2,075, depending on the stream.

In total, for a typical family of four, you’re looking at upwards of CAD 4,000 in government fees alone. But hold on—that’s not the whole picture. There are also medical exams, background checks, and other expenses to consider.

2. Medical Exam Fees
Canada requires every applicant to undergo a medical exam. This isn’t something you can skip or downplay. The costs for these exams vary depending on where you are, but expect to pay around CAD 150 to CAD 500 per person. For a family, these costs add up quickly.

You’ll also need to undergo police background checks, and while the fees for these are minimal (usually CAD 20 to CAD 50), they are yet another expense to tack on.

3. Proof of Funds
Perhaps the biggest shock for many would-be immigrants is the requirement to show proof of funds. This isn’t technically a “cost,” but it is money you need to have sitting in your bank account before you even arrive in Canada.

For a single person, you must show CAD 13,757 in liquid assets. For a family of four, that number jumps to CAD 25,564. This is not negotiable. If you don’t have this money, your application will be rejected.

These funds are meant to cover your living expenses when you first arrive in Canada and are looking for work. However, keep in mind that this is only the minimum required. Many people suggest bringing more to ensure a smooth transition.

4. Legal and Consultancy Fees
This is an area where costs can vary wildly. You can technically apply for permanent residency on your own, but many applicants prefer to hire an immigration consultant or lawyer to help them navigate the process.

Consultancy fees can range from CAD 1,500 to CAD 5,000, depending on the complexity of your case. While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, many people find that the peace of mind is worth the extra cost, especially if your application has any potential complications (e.g., a criminal record or medical issues).

5. Additional Costs: Translators, Travel, and Miscellaneous Fees
Don’t forget the smaller costs, either. Documents that aren’t in English or French need to be translated, which can run you another few hundred dollars. You’ll also need to travel for medical exams and interviews, and, depending on your location, this can add significant expenses.

6. Post-PR Costs: Housing, Education, and More
Once you’ve secured your permanent resident visa, your financial obligations don’t stop there. Moving to Canada involves setting up your new life—housing, education for children, buying or leasing a car, and more.

Let’s take housing, for instance. The cost of living in Canada varies widely depending on the city you choose. Toronto and Vancouver are two of the most expensive cities—with average monthly rents for a one-bedroom apartment reaching CAD 2,000 or more.

If you’re planning to buy a house, the average cost is about CAD 700,000 nationwide, but expect to pay much more in major cities like Toronto or Vancouver.

On the education front, public schools are free for children, but if you’re pursuing higher education, the costs range from CAD 7,000 to CAD 29,000 per year for international students, depending on the program and institution.

7. Hidden Benefits
Despite all these costs, many immigrants find that Canada offers significant long-term benefits. Universal healthcare, affordable education, and social services all contribute to a higher quality of life. Many find that the initial investment pays off in the long run, both personally and financially.

In short, while the sticker price for a Canadian permanent resident visa may seem manageable, the true cost involves several hidden expenses. The key is to plan ahead and ensure you have enough funds to cover both the official fees and the associated costs.

You might be surprised to learn that some people end up spending close to CAD 10,000 to secure their PR status. Is it worth it? For many, the answer is a resounding yes. Canada offers not just a new home but also a gateway to a more stable and prosperous future.