Express Entry Canada Cost Breakdown 2026
Complete guide to all fees, proof of funds requirements, and hidden costs for your Canadian PR journey
Government Application Fees
These are mandatory fees paid to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
| Fee Type | Amount (CAD) | Amount (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Principal applicant processing fee | $890 | ~$650 | Mandatory |
| Right of Permanent Residence Fee | $535 | ~$395 | Payable before approval |
| Spouse/partner processing fee | $890 | ~$650 | If applicable |
| Spouse/partner RPRF | $535 | ~$395 | If applicable |
| Dependent child | $240 | ~$175 | Per child |
| Biometrics (fingerprints) | $85 | ~$65 | Per person, max $170/family |
| Total (example: single applicant) | $1,510 | ~$1,110 | Including biometrics |
Note: The Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) can be paid later in the process, but paying it upfront can speed up your application processing.
Upfront Preparation Costs
These are costs you’ll incur before you can even create your Express Entry profile.
| Requirement | Cost Range (CAD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Language Test (IELTS/CELPIP/TEF) | $290 – $350 | Per attempt, most applicants need one attempt |
| Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) | $210 – $310 | WES is most popular ($260 CAD) |
| Document Translation | $35 – $75 | Per document, if not in English/French |
| Notarization/Certification | $60 – $160 | For copies of documents |
| Police Clearance Certificates | $60 – $160 | Varies by country |
Budget Tip: These upfront costs can add up quickly. Plan for at least $850-$1,300 for this stage, especially if you need to take language tests multiple times.
Proof of Funds Requirements
You must prove you have enough money to support yourself and your family after arrival in Canada.
| Number of Family Members | Funds Required (CAD) | Funds Required (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $14,500 | ~$10,650 |
| 2 | $18,050 | ~$13,250 |
| 3 | $22,190 | ~$16,300 |
| 4 | $26,940 | ~$19,800 |
| 5 | $30,550 | ~$22,450 |
| 6 | $34,460 | ~$25,300 |
| 7+ | $38,370 | ~$28,200 |
Important: These funds must be readily available to you (not invested in real estate or other non-liquid assets). You’ll need to provide official letters from your banks as proof.
Exemption: You don’t need to show proof of funds if you’re applying through the Canadian Experience Class or have a valid job offer in Canada.
Post-ITA & Hidden Costs
Costs that come after receiving your Invitation to Apply (ITA) that many applicants forget to budget for.
Medical Examinations
$260 – $470 per person. Must be done by a panel physician approved by IRCC.
Passport Renewal
$130 – $200 if your passport is expiring soon. IRCC requires at least 6 months validity.
Courier & Mailing
$60 – $120 for sending documents and receiving correspondence.
Photographs
$25 – $60 for Canadian specification PR photos.
Express Entry Cost Calculator
Estimated Total Cost
This includes government fees, preparation costs, and estimated hidden expenses.
Payment Methods & Tips
Accepted Payment Methods
IRCC accepts credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), debit cards, and prepaid cards.
Currency Exchange
Pay in Canadian dollars to avoid extra exchange fees. Check with your bank for best rates.
Keep Records
Save receipts for all payments – you may need them for future reference or reimbursement.
Budget for Exchange Rate Fluctuations
Add a 5-10% buffer to account for changing exchange rates.
