Plan ahead

What an application really costs.

A realistic budget prevents mid-process surprises. Here is where the money typically goes — and what to verify before you pay anyone.

Government fees

Most applications include fees paid to the Government of Canada. These are set by regulation and change periodically — always confirm the current amounts on the official IRCC fee list before paying.

Processing fees for the applicant and each included family member
The Right of Permanent Residence Fee for most permanent residence applications
Biometrics fees, where biometrics are required
Separate fees for work permits, study permits and visitor visas

Third-party costs

Beyond government fees, most applicants pay other organizations for supporting documents and services.

Language testing (IELTS, CELPIP, PTE Core, TEF or TCF)
Educational Credential Assessments from a designated organization
Medical examinations with an IRCC panel physician
Police certificates from each country where you have lived
Certified translations for documents not in English or French

Employer-side costs

Canadian employers hiring from abroad may face their own fees and obligations.

LMIA application fees for most Temporary Foreign Worker Program streams
Employer compliance fees for many LMIA-exempt work permits
Recruitment and advertising costs required by the applicable stream
Potential provincial registration or licensing requirements

Professional fees

Fees for representation depend on the complexity of the matter, the application type and the work involved. A reputable representative explains the scope and fee structure in a written agreement before work begins.

Ask what is included — forms, correspondence, responses to IRCC requests
Confirm who your representative is and verify their licence or membership
Be cautious of anyone guaranteeing an outcome or asking for cash without receipts

Check the official numbers

Fee amounts, payment methods and refund rules are published by the Government of Canada and can change. We never quote government fees as fixed figures — we verify them at the time your application is prepared.

Official IRCC fee list

Wondering what your situation would involve? Tell us about your case and we will outline the expected costs before any work begins.

Your next step

Tell us about your plans.

We’ll help you identify the right questions to ask first.

Send an inquiry