How much are PR fees in Canada?

PR Fees in Canada?

If you’re planning to apply for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR), one of the first and most important questions you’ll have is: How much does Canada PR actually cost?
Understanding the complete fee structure in advance helps you plan better, avoid surprises, and move forward confidently with your application.

Canada PR fees are set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and can vary depending on the number of applicants and the immigration program you choose, such as Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

Let’s break down the Canada PR fees clearly and simply.

Core Canada PR Application Fees (Express Entry & General Streams)

For most economic immigration programs like Express Entry, IRCC charges two main fees for adult applicants:

Principal Applicant Fees

The total Canada PR fee for a single adult applicant is CAD $1,525.
This amount includes:

• Processing Fee: CAD $950
• Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): CAD $575

These two fees together make up the base cost for the main applicant.

Spouse or Partner Fees

If you are applying with your spouse or common-law partner, the same fee applies:

• Processing Fee: CAD $950
• Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): CAD $575
• Total: CAD $1,525

Each adult applicant is charged separately.

Dependent Child Fees

For dependent children, the cost is much lower:

• Processing Fee: CAD $260 per child
• The RPRF is not charged separately for children and is usually covered by the parents.

Additional Mandatory Costs You Must Budget For

Apart from IRCC’s core application fees, there are several mandatory expenses that every Canada PR applicant must pay during the process.

Biometrics Fee

Most applicants are required to give biometrics (fingerprints and photo):

• CAD $85 per person
• CAD $170 for a family

Medical Examination

All applicants must undergo a medical exam from an IRCC-approved panel physician:

• Cost varies by country and clinic
• Usually starts from CAD $100+ per person

Language Test Fees

Language proficiency is mandatory for most PR programs:

• IELTS or CELPIP: Around CAD $265+
• Cost may vary slightly by test center and country

Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

To verify your foreign education:

• ECA cost: Around CAD $240+
• Fees depend on the assessing organization (WES, IQAS, CES, etc.)

Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

You must provide police clearance from each country you’ve lived in:

• Cost varies by country
• Usually around CAD $50+

When Is the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) Paid?

The RPRF of CAD $575 is generally paid later in the application process, often before final approval or landing.
However, IRCC allows applicants to pay it upfront, which can sometimes help avoid delays.

Whether paid early or later, the RPRF is mandatory for all adult PR applicants.

Canada PR Fees by Immigration Program

Express Entry

Express Entry follows the standard fee structure:

• CAD $1,525 per adult
• CAD $260 per dependent child
• Additional costs for medicals, biometrics, language tests, and ECA apply

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

PNPs have separate provincial application fees, which are charged in addition to IRCC fees.

• Provincial fees usually range from CAD $350 to CAD $1,500
• Amount depends on the province and stream

Applicants should always check the specific province’s official website for accurate fees.

Important Things to Keep in Mind

• All Canada PR fees are charged in Canadian dollars
• Fees must be paid online before you become a permanent resident
• Costs may change, so it’s important to verify fees on the official IRCC website
• Using unofficial sources can lead to incorrect fee estimates

Total Estimated Canada PR Cost (Including Extras)

While the base PR application fee is CAD $1,525, the total cost of applying for Canada PR usually increases once additional mandatory expenses are included.

For a single applicant, the overall cost often falls between:

• CAD $2,500 to CAD $3,000

For couples or families, the total cost increases depending on:

• Number of applicants
• Provincial nomination fees
• Medical and documentation costs

Final Thoughts

Applying for Canadian Permanent Residency is a major life decision, and understanding the exact PR fees in Canada helps you prepare financially and avoid unnecessary stress.
While the official PR application fee starts at CAD $1,525, additional mandatory costs like medical exams, biometrics, language tests, and ECA play a crucial role in the overall budget.

Since immigration fees and policies can change, always confirm the latest costs on the official IRCC website before submitting your application.

With the right planning and accurate information, your Canada PR journey can be smooth, transparent, and well-prepared.