Immigrating to Canada through the Express Entry system is a life-changing step — but it also comes with several costs that every applicant should understand in advance.
In this blog, we break down all the major costs involved in applying for Canadian Permanent Residence (PR) through Express Entry, so you can plan your budget confidently and avoid surprises.
All costs mentioned below are in Canadian Dollars (CAD).
1. Mandatory Government Fees (PR Application Fees)
Once you receive your Invitation to Apply (ITA), the following government fees must be paid:
For a Single Applicant:
|
Fee Type |
Amount |
|
Application Processing Fee |
$950 |
|
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) |
$575 |
|
Biometrics Fee |
$85 |
|
Total |
$1,610 |
For Applicant with Spouse:
|
Fee Type |
Amount |
|
Application Processing Fee (Both) |
$1,900 |
|
RPRF (Both) |
$1,150 |
|
Biometrics Fee |
$170 |
|
Total |
$3,220 |
+ Each dependent child: $260 per child
Paying the Right of PR Fee upfront helps avoid processing delays.
RPRF is refunded if your application is refused.
2. Language Test Fees
To enter the Express Entry pool, you need a valid language test.
Approved English & French Tests:
>. IELTS General Training
>. CELPIP General
>. PTE Core
>. TEF Canada / TCF Canada (French)
Cost range: $290 – $450 + tax
The cost depends on the test type and location.
3. Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
If your education was completed outside Canada, you need an ECA (especially for FSWP candidates or if you want CRS points).
Cost: $200 – $310 + taxes & delivery
You do NOT need ECA if you're applying under:
>. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
>. Federal Skilled Trades Program (if Canadian education is not being claimed)
4. Medical Examination (IME)
As per updated IRCC rules, all Express Entry applicants must submit an upfront medical exam.
Only IRCC-approved panel physicians can conduct this.
Average cost: $140 – $280 per person
5. Police Clearance Certificates (PCC)
You and family members aged 18+ must provide police clearances for every country you lived in for more than 6 months in the last 10 years.
Costs vary by country:
>. India: $8 – $38
>. Philippines: $4 – $39
>. China: $40 – $120
>. Nigeria: $5 – $180
>. Cameroon: $3 – $207
6. Document Translation Fees
Any document not in English or French must be translated by a certified translator.
Estimated: $25 – $70 per document
7. Optional Legal or Consultant Fees
Many applicants choose professional support to avoid mistakes.
Immigration consultant/lawyer fees generally range from:
$3,000 – $8,000, depending on case complexity.
Benefits include:
>. CRS score optimization
>. Proper document preparation
>. Avoiding refusals & misrepresentation
>. Expert handling of complex cases
8. Proof of Settlement Funds
This is not a fee, but you must show available funds (unless exempt under CEC or valid job offer).
For a single applicant:
Minimum $15,263
This amount increases with family size.
9. Additional Miscellaneous Costs
You should also consider:
>. Passport renewal
>. Courier & printing fees
>. Travel for biometrics/medical
>. Document notarization
>. Retake of language exams
>. Airfare to Canada
>. Extra ECA copies
First PR Card after landing: FREE
If not applied within 180 days: $50
Final Thoughts
While Express Entry is one of the most efficient immigration systems in the world, it does require planning and proper financial preparation.
Knowing your costs upfront helps you avoid unnecessary stress and keeps your application smooth from start to finish.
At Plato Immigration Services, we guide you at every step from Express Entry profile creation to PR submission and beyond.
Contact us today for your FREE Express Entry Assessment!
