The amount of money required to immigrate to Canada varies depending on the immigration program. Most economic immigration programs require proof of funds to demonstrate that you can financially support yourself and your family after arriving in the country. The required funds depend on family size and the type of immigration program. These amounts cover not only visa processing fees but also the minimum funds needed to settle initially in Canada. Compared to countries like the US, the UK, or Australia, Canada is relatively affordable for immigration.
Cost of immigration to Canada in 2025
Cost of immigration to Canada in 2025, you must meet general and financial eligibility criteria. Some of the requirements include:
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Being at least 18 years old.
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Being a citizen of a country other than Canada.
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Having sufficient proficiency in English or French (depending on the province).
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Meeting requirements associated with your chosen visa type (work, study, permanent residency, spousal visa, etc.).
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Demonstrating the financial capacity to support yourself and any accompanying dependents.
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Possibly being sponsored through a family sponsorship program.
Canadian Visa Application Fees in 2025
Visa fees depend on the type of visa and can be divided into two main categories:
Temporary Visas
| Visa Type | Fee (per person) | Restoration Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Study Permit (including extensions) | CAD$150 | CAD$379 |
| Visitor Visa (including Super Visa) | CAD$100 | CAD$229 |
| Work Permit (including extensions) | CAD$155 | CAD$384 |
| Open Work Permit | CAD$100 | – |
| International Experience Canada (IEC) | CAD$172 | – |
| Temporary Resident Permit | CAD$229.77 | – |
| Restoration Fee | CAD$7 | – |
Note: Family visitor visas allow a group application for five or more family members for CAD$500. Group work permits are available for 3 or more performing artists at CAD$465.
Permanent Residency
| Type of Residency | Fee | Fee with Spouse/Partner |
|---|---|---|
| Business Immigration | CAD$2,385 | CAD$1,525 |
| Caregivers | CAD$1,210 | CAD$1,210 |
| Economic Immigration (including Express Entry) | CAD$1,525 | CAD$1,525 |
| Humanitarian Programs | CAD$1,210 | CAD$1,210 |
⚠️ Note: Fees are non-refundable if your application is rejected.
Settlement Funds
Settlement funds are the money required for you and your family to live in Canada for at least six months without an income. In 2025, the IRCC has set the following minimum amounts:
| Family Size | Minimum Funds (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 14,690 |
| 2 persons | 18,288 |
| 3 persons | 22,483 |
| 4 persons | 27,297 |
| 5 persons | 30,690 |
| 6 persons | 34,917 |
| 7 persons | 38,875 |
| Each additional family member | 3,958 |
How to Prepare Proof of Funds
To submit proof of funds, follow these steps:
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Determine the required amount based on your program and family size.
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Funds should be in cash or liquid assets such as savings accounts.
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Keep the required funds in your account for 3–6 months before applying.
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Gather financial documents such as bank statements or certificates.
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If funds are in another currency, show the equivalent in Canadian dollars.
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All documents must be in English or French (with certified translation if necessary).
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Funds must remain available until you arrive in Canada.
Which Programs Do Not Require Proof of Funds?
Some immigration pathways exempt applicants from showing settlement funds, usually if they are already in Canada or have a valid job offer:
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Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
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Federal Skilled Worker Program or Federal Skilled Trades Program
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Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
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Quebec-selected immigration programs with job offers
Express Entry System
Express Entry is Canada’s system for managing skilled worker immigration and includes three main programs:
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Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
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Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
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Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Settlement funds are typically required for FSWP and FSTP unless you have a valid job offer or apply through CEC.
Summary
The amount of money needed to immigrate to Canada depends on your visa type, family size, and personal circumstances:
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For temporary visas, fees range from around CAD$7 to several hundred dollars.
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For permanent residency, fees range from CAD$1,210 to over CAD$2,300.
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In addition, sufficient settlement funds must be shown (CAD$14,690 for one person, higher for families).
Before applying, carefully assess your situation to choose the most suitable immigration pathway and optimise both time and costs.