Decoding Canadian Immigration Fees: Your Essential 2026 Price Guide

Venturing into the world of Canadian immigration or citizenship applications can feel like sifting through a labyrinth of forms, requirements, and, yes, fees. In 2026, understanding these costs upfront is absolutely crucial for any prospective newcomer or current resident looking to solidify their status. Nobody wants sticker shock, especially when dealing with such life-changing decisions.

This isn't just another dry list of numbers. We're breaking down the full spectrum of fees, from temporary visits to full-blown citizenship, offering a candid look at what you'll pay and why. We'll highlight the high-rollers, point out the budget-friendly options, and even offer some insider perspective on where your money goes. Get ready to budget wisely, because knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your Canadian dream.

Let's unpack the financial side of your immigration journey, section by section, so you can plan your next steps with confidence.

Temporary Resident Applications: Short-Term Stays, Smart Spending

1. Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Honestly, this one is the easiest on the wallet. At just $7.00 CAD, the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a digital travel document required for visa-exempt foreign nationals flying to or transiting through Canada. It's not a visa, but it’s a mandatory prerequisite for entry for many travelers, primarily those who don't need a visitor visa.

While inexpensive, don't underestimate its importance. Without a valid eTA, your flight could be denied, even if you’re from a visa-exempt country. It's a quick online application, and the low cost makes it a no-brainer for eligible travelers. For a mere seven dollars, you unlock a world of travel possibilities to Canada, a true bargain in the grand scheme of things.

Verdict: The absolute most affordable entry point for eligible visitors.

2. International Experience Canada (IEC)

The International Experience Canada (IEC) program is an incredible opportunity for young people to work and travel in Canada, and it comes with a relatively modest price tag of $184.75 CAD. This program is a fantastic pathway for those looking to gain international work experience, whether through a Working Holiday, Young Professionals, or International Co-op internship.

Unlike some more complex work permit applications, the IEC fee is straightforward. It covers the participation in the program itself. While you might have additional costs like biometrics or specific work permit fees later, this initial payment opens the door to eligibility. It's a solid investment for an experience that can genuinely shape a young person's career and personal development.

Verdict: Great value for youth seeking work and travel experience.

3. Study Permits (Including Extensions)

For those looking to advance their education in Canada, a study permit is essential, and the fee stands at a reasonable $150.00 CAD per person. This cost applies whether you're applying for a new permit or extending an existing one. Considering the caliber of Canadian educational institutions and the post-graduation work opportunities, this fee is quite competitive on the global stage.

However, be aware of the "restore your status" scenario. If your study permit expires and you wish to continue studying, restoring your status will cost $246.25 CAD, in addition to the standard $150.00 for the new study permit, bringing the total to $396.25 CAD. This is a crucial detail to remember to avoid unnecessary additional expenses and complications. Stay on top of your expiry dates to save yourself time and money.

Verdict: An affordable gateway to world-class education, but mind those deadlines!

4. Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)

A Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) is for individuals who are otherwise inadmissible to Canada but have a compelling reason to enter. The fee for this permit is $246.25 CAD per person. This isn't your typical visitor visa; it's a discretionary authorization granted in exceptional circumstances, for example, if you have a criminal record that would normally bar your entry but you have an urgent need to be in Canada.

Given the specific and often sensitive nature of TRPs, the fee reflects the detailed assessment required. It's a lifeline for those who wouldn't otherwise be able to enter. It's important to understand that applying for a TRP doesn't guarantee approval, but the fee is for the processing of your request. This is a fee for a complex situation, not a standard entry document.

Verdict: A necessary cost for exceptional circumstances of inadmissibility.

5. Visitor Visas (Including Super Visa) and Extensions

The standard visitor visa, whether single or multiple entry, is priced at $100.00 CAD per person. This fee also applies to extending your stay as a visitor. Where this category truly shines, however, is with the family cap. For a family of five or more applying at the same time and place, the maximum fee is capped at $500.00 CAD. This can represent significant savings for larger families, making Canada a more accessible destination.

Just like study permits, restoring your status as a visitor also carries a fee of $246.25 CAD. A quick note: you don't need a separate visa fee for the restoration, just the restoration fee itself. The Super Visa, designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, falls under this same fee structure. It's an excellent option for long-term visits, but the fee is the same as a regular visitor visa, which is a bit of a surprise given its unique benefits.

Verdict: Good value, especially for larger families taking advantage of the fee cap.

6. Work Permits (Including Extensions)

Securing a work permit in Canada costs $155.00 CAD per person, whether it's an initial application or an extension. This fee is relatively standard across most work permit streams, providing a consistent cost for employers and foreign workers alike. It's a critical investment for anyone looking to contribute to the Canadian economy and gain valuable professional experience.

There's also a unique group fee for performing artists: $465.00 CAD for three or more artists applying together. This is a thoughtful consideration for touring groups, though it's important to remember that if these artists also need visitor visas, those must be paid for individually, as the group fee for visitor visas only applies to families. Similar to other temporary statuses, restoring your status as a worker will set you back $401.25 CAD, which includes the $246.25 restoration fee and the $155.00 work permit fee. Avoiding this situation is always preferable.

Verdict: A fair price for the opportunity to work in Canada, with a nice perk for performing artist groups.

Permanent Residence Applications: Your Path to a New Home

7. Economic Immigration Programs (Including Express Entry)

This is where the financial commitment significantly ramps up, reflecting the long-term benefit of permanent residency. For your main application under programs like Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee, or Atlantic Immigration Program, the fee is $1,590.00 CAD. This amount already includes the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) of $600.00. If you pay without the RPRF initially, it's $990.00 CAD, but you'll still need to pay the RPRF later.

Adding a spouse or partner also costs $1,590.00 CAD (including RPRF, or $990.00 without). For each dependent child, the fee is $270.00 CAD. While these numbers are substantial, they represent the investment in a future in Canada. Many applicants consider this a worthwhile cost for the stability and opportunities that come with permanent residency. This category also encompasses Quebec-selected skilled workers, ensuring a consistent fee structure across various economic streams.

Verdict: A significant but necessary investment for a permanent future in Canada.

8. Business Immigration Programs

Business immigration, which includes routes like Quebec business immigration, Self-Employed People, and the Start-up Visa, carries a higher price tag for the primary applicant. Your application, inclusive of the RPRF, will cost $2,495.00 CAD. If you opt to pay without the RPRF initially, it's $1,895.00 CAD. This higher fee reflects the specialized nature of these programs and the potential economic contribution expected from these immigrants.

Bringing along your spouse or partner will add another $1,590.00 CAD (or $990.00 without RPRF). Dependent children are charged at $270.00 CAD per child, consistent with other permanent residence streams. It's clear that Canada values entrepreneurial spirit and economic investment, and the fees reflect the comprehensive assessment process for such applications. These programs require not just financial capital, but also significant planning and often a business proposal, justifying the higher processing costs.

Verdict: Higher fees reflect the specialized nature and economic impact of these pathways.

9. Home Care Workers (Caregivers)

The fees for home care worker programs vary slightly depending on when the program opened. For programs that opened in 2026 (like the Home Care Worker Immigration Pilot for Child Care and Home Support), the fees mirror the general economic immigration rates: $1,590.00 CAD for the main applicant (including RPRF), and the same for a spouse or partner, plus $270.00 CAD per dependent child. This indicates a standardization of fees for newer, active caregiver programs.

However, for programs that opened before 2026, such as the Live-in Caregiver Program or the Home Child Care Provider Pilot (now closed to new applications), the fees are slightly lower: $1,260.00 CAD for the main applicant (including RPRF), and the same for a spouse or partner. Dependent children for these older programs cost $180.00 CAD. This distinction highlights evolving fee structures for vital caregiving roles. Applicants should double-check which program they fall under to ensure they pay the correct amount, especially since some older programs required separate work permit fees.

Verdict: Costs vary by program era, but remain a significant investment for caregivers seeking PR.

10. Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) Applications

Applications based on humanitarian and compassionate grounds, as well as several public policy pathways (like the Health-care worker permanent residence pathway or the TR to PR pathway), have a fee structure similar to the older caregiver programs. The main applicant will pay $1,260.00 CAD (including RPRF), while a spouse or partner also costs $1,260.00 CAD. Dependent children come in at $180.00 CAD per child.

These fees reflect the complex and often individualized nature of H&C applications. Unlike standard economic or family sponsorship, these pathways often require extensive documentation and a detailed narrative to demonstrate strong establishment in Canada or exceptional circumstances. The consistent fee structure across various special public policies under this umbrella simplifies the financial planning for those seeking permanent residency through non-standard routes.

Verdict: A compassionate pathway with a moderate fee, reflecting the detailed assessment required.

11. Permanent Resident Cards and Travel Documents

Once you've achieved permanent resident status, there are still a few administrative fees to consider. Both a new Permanent Resident (PR) card and a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) cost $50.00 CAD. These are relatively minor fees compared to the initial PR application, but they are absolutely critical for maintaining your status and traveling internationally.

A PR card is your proof of status within Canada and for re-entry. If you're outside Canada without a valid PR card, a PRTD becomes essential to return. It's a vital, albeit small, expense to keep your Canadian life running smoothly. For such crucial documents, I'd argue $50.00 is a very fair price.

Verdict: Small but mighty fees for maintaining your hard-won PR status.

12. Protected Persons

For individuals granted protected person status, the application for permanent residency has a distinct fee structure. The main applicant's processing fee is $660.00 CAD, and this also applies to a spouse or partner. Dependent children are charged $180.00 CAD per child. Notably, the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) does *not* apply to protected persons, which significantly reduces the overall cost.

This waiver of the RPRF is a compassionate policy, recognizing the often-vulnerable circumstances of protected persons. It ensures that financial barriers are minimized for those who have been found to be in need of Canada's protection. It's a powerful example of how certain fee structures are designed with specific humanitarian considerations in mind.

Verdict: A reduced cost pathway for those granted protected status, reflecting humanitarian considerations.

13. Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)

While often bundled with other fees, the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) is a standalone charge of $600.00 CAD. This fee is crucial; it must be paid before you can become a permanent resident. Most applicants pay it upfront with their application fees, which is generally advisable to avoid delays. However, if your application is approved before you've paid it, the immigration authorities will contact you to arrange payment.

The RPRF is unique because it's the *only* fee that is refundable if your application is withdrawn or refused after processing has begun. This offers a small measure of financial protection. Importantly, it doesn't apply to dependent children, adopted children, orphaned relatives, or protected persons. Knowing when and how to pay this fee, and for whom, is key to a smooth transition to PR.

Verdict: A significant, but often refundable, final step to solidify your permanent residency.

Family Sponsorship: Uniting Loved Ones

14. Sponsoring a Spouse, Partner, or Children (Abroad or In Canada)

Sponsoring your spouse or partner, whether they are abroad or already in Canada, carries a fee of $1,260.00 CAD. This amount includes the sponsorship fee, the processing fee, and the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF). If you choose to pay without the RPRF initially, the cost is $660.00 CAD, but remember the RPRF will be due later. For each dependent child included on the application, the fee is $180.00 CAD. You can also independently sponsor a dependent child for the same $180.00 per child.

The consistency of these fees, regardless of whether the sponsored family member is inside or outside Canada, simplifies the process. It recognizes the fundamental right of families to be reunited. While it's a considerable sum, it’s an investment in your family's future together in Canada. The process can be emotionally taxing, but at least the fees are straightforward.

Verdict: A consistent and considerable fee for the fundamental right of family reunification.

15. Sponsoring Parents and Grandparents (PGP)

The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is a highly sought-after pathway for many families. Sponsoring a parent or grandparent costs $1,260.00 CAD, which, like spousal sponsorship, includes the sponsorship fee, processing fee, and the RPRF. Without the RPRF, the upfront cost is $660.00 CAD. If your parent or grandparent has a spouse or partner, adding them to the application incurs the same $1,260.00 CAD fee (or $660.00 without RPRF).

Additionally, if your parent or grandparent has any dependent children of their own, each child will add $180.00 CAD to the total. This program is often oversubscribed due to high demand, so while the fees are fixed, the opportunity itself can be competitive. The fees reflect the comprehensive assessment involved in bringing extended family members to Canada permanently.

Verdict: A significant investment for uniting the extended family, mirroring other core family sponsorship fees.

16. Sponsoring Adopted Children and Other Relatives

This category can get a bit more nuanced. Sponsoring a relative 22 years or older costs $1,260.00 CAD (with RPRF) or $660.00 CAD (without RPRF). For a dependent child, adopted child, or orphaned relative, the fee is $180.00 CAD per child. This same $180.00 fee applies if you're including a dependent or adopted child on an application with your relative.

Interestingly, if you're sponsoring a relative under 22 who isn't your dependent child, the fee is $780.00 CAD (with RPRF) or $180.00 CAD (without RPRF). And to include the spouse or partner of your relative, it’s again $1,260.00 CAD (with RPRF) or $660.00 CAD (without RPRF). The variations here highlight the different categories of relatives and the associated processing complexities, but generally align with family sponsorship costs for adults and children.

Verdict: Varied fees depending on the type and age of the relative, but generally consistent with family stream pricing.

Citizenship Applications: The Final Step

17. Citizenship Application Fees

Becoming a Canadian citizen is the ultimate goal for many immigrants, and it comes with a definitive set of fees. For an adult (18 and over), the application costs $653.00 CAD. This total includes both the processing fee and the Right of Citizenship fee. For minors (under 18), the fee is a much more palatable $100.00 CAD, as they are exempt from the Right of Citizenship fee.

There's a special, significantly reduced fee of $123.00 CAD for stateless adults (18 or over) born to a Canadian parent, which only covers the Right of Citizenship fee. This unique category acknowledges specific circumstances for individuals who might have a claim to citizenship by descent but are stateless. For most, the adult fee is a final, significant step in their Canadian journey, an investment in full membership to the country.

Verdict: A reasonable final investment for the lifelong benefits of Canadian citizenship.

18. Other Citizenship Fees and Services

Beyond the main application, several other services related to citizenship have associated fees. If you need a Citizenship Certificate (proof of citizenship), that will cost you $75.00 CAD. Similarly, a search for your record of citizenship is also $75.00 CAD. These are standard administrative fees for document retrieval and verification.

Resuming your citizenship, which applies to those who previously renounced it, costs $530.00 CAD for adults and $100.00 CAD for minors. If you choose to renounce your citizenship, that process also carries a $100.00 CAD fee. And the standalone Right of Citizenship fee, if applicable separately, is $123.00 CAD. These fees cover the administrative work for various stages of citizenship interaction, showing that even after becoming a citizen, there might be fees for related services.

Verdict: Standard administrative fees for essential citizenship documents and status changes.

Inadmissibility: Addressing Complications

19. Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC)

If you've previously been removed from Canada and wish to return, you'll likely need an Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC). This application comes with a fee of $492.50 CAD. An ARC is a formal request to overcome a previous removal order, and it requires a thorough review of your individual circumstances to determine if you meet the criteria for readmission.

This fee is higher than many temporary permits, reflecting the more complex nature of assessing an individual who has been removed from the country. It's not a guarantee of entry, but it's the necessary first step for individuals looking to rectify a past removal and return to Canada. What if you didn't need one of these in the first place? Always ensure you understand the terms of your stay.

Verdict: A substantial fee for navigating complex re-entry after a removal order.

20. Rehabilitation

For individuals who are inadmissible due to criminality, "rehabilitation" is a process that allows them to overcome this inadmissibility. The fee varies depending on the severity of the offense. For inadmissibility on the grounds of "criminality" (less serious offenses), the fee is $246.25 CAD. However, for "serious criminality," the fee jumps significantly to $1,231.00 CAD.

This distinction highlights the government's approach to assessing risk. More serious offenses naturally require a much more extensive and rigorous review process, hence the higher fee. This isn't a fee for a new application per se, but rather a fee to overcome an existing barrier to entry or status in Canada. It's a critical component for those seeking a fresh start despite past legal troubles.

Verdict: Fees vary significantly based on the severity of past criminal inadmissibility, reflecting processing complexity.

21. Repaying Your Removal Expenses

This is a fee category that everyone hopes to avoid. If you were removed from Canada, you might be required to repay the expenses incurred by the Canadian government for your removal. The costs vary dramatically based on the date of removal and the method. For removals *before* April 1, 2026, the fees were $899.00 CAD for removals to the U.S.A. and St. Pierre and Miquelon, and $1,799.00 CAD for any other country.

However, for removals *on or after* April 1, 2026, these costs escalate sharply. An escorted removal by air (excluding medical escort) is a staggering $13,098.96 CAD. Other types of removals, such as unescorted removals, escorted removals not by air, or removals under medical escort by air, are still a substantial $3,905.28 CAD. These fees underscore the serious financial consequences of non-compliance with immigration laws.

Verdict: Extremely high fees for removal expenses, a stark reminder of the financial consequences of non-compliance.

Other Applications and Services: The Miscellaneous Costs

22. Biometrics

Biometrics, which include fingerprints and a digital photograph, are a mandatory requirement for citizens of certain countries and territories applying for temporary or permanent residence. The individual fee is $85.00 CAD. This is a separate cost from your application fee and is paid to a designated service provider.

Thankfully, there are family and group caps. For a family of two or more eligible people applying together, the maximum fee is $170.00 CAD. And for a group of three or more performing artists applying for a work permit at the same time, the maximum is $255.00 CAD. These caps provide some relief for groups, making the biometric collection process slightly more economical. It’s an unavoidable cost, but at least there are some built-in efficiencies.

Verdict: A necessary, generally affordable fee with family and group discounts.

23. Employer Compliance Fee

This fee isn't paid by the applicant, but by the employer in certain situations. When a Canadian employer hires a foreign national through some work permit streams (like those under the International Mobility Program), they must pay an Employer Compliance Fee of $230.00 CAD. This fee helps fund activities that ensure employers comply with program requirements and protect foreign workers.

Similar to performing artists' work permits, there's a group fee for entertainers: $690.00 CAD for a group of three or more performing artists and their staff. This fee underscores Canada's commitment to monitoring employment conditions for foreign workers and ensuring fair labor practices. It’s a cost borne by businesses, not the individual, but it's a significant part of the overall work permit framework.

Verdict: An employer-borne fee that supports compliance and worker protection.

24. Verify Your Status or Replace an Immigration Document

Sometimes you just need a straightforward administrative service, and verifying your status or replacing an immigration document falls into this category. The fee for this service is a modest $30.00 CAD. This could be for replacing a lost record of landing, confirming your visitor status, or getting a document that attests to your immigration history.

This low fee is a relief for common administrative needs. It’s important to have accurate and up-to-date documentation, and this service provides an accessible way to ensure that. It's one of the cheaper services on the list, but invaluable for maintaining proper records.

Verdict: A very reasonable fee for essential administrative document services.