Cost of immigrating to Canada: 2026 guide

Before submitting an Express Entry profile, IRCC requires several paid proofs (language tests, credential assessment, government fees) and a minimum amount of settlement funds. This article breaks down, line by line, what immigrating to Canada actually costs in 2026 for an adult or a family.

Once your budget is set, use our free CRS simulator to estimate your odds before investing.

• Principal applicant processing: CAD 950
• Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): CAD 575
• Accompanying spouse: CAD 950 + 575
• Dependent child: CAD 260 per child
• Biometrics: CAD 85 / person (CAD 170 family)

Typical total for a single applicant: ~CAD 1,610. For a couple with one child: ~CAD 3,305.

• IELTS General (English): ~CAD 330
• CELPIP General (English, Canada): ~CAD 280
• TEF Canada (French): ~CAD 400 depending on the centre
• TCF Canada (French): ~CAD 300

Budget for prep (courses, books): CAD 100–600. A second language (French in addition to English) adds significant CRS points — see our CRS improvement levers.

• WES (most common): ~CAD 250 + shipping
• ICAS / IQAS / CES: CAD 200–350 depending on the body
• Certified translation fees (if required): CAD 30–80 / page

ECA is required for credentials earned outside Canada.

IRCC updates the amounts each year. 2026 indicative scale (confirm on the IRCC site):

• 1 person: ~CAD 14,690
• 2 people: ~CAD 18,288
• 3 people: ~CAD 22,483
• 4 people: ~CAD 27,297
• + ~CAD 3,500 per additional person

Funds must be available, liquid and provable with bank statements from the last 6 months. Not required if you have a valid job offer or are already under CEC.

• Medical exam: CAD 200–450 / adult
• Police certificates (per country of residence): CAD 20–100
• Sworn translations of civil records: CAD 200–500
• Canadian-format photos: ~CAD 15
• Plane ticket on arrival: CAD 600–1,800 / person
• Settlement (housing, deposit, transport) for the first months: CAD 3,000–6,000

For a single applicant: ~CAD 18,000–22,000 all-in (fees + proof of funds + arrival).

For a couple with one child: ~CAD 32,000–40,000.

Before committing, check your eligibility with our CRS simulator. You can also read our guide to improving your score before submitting a profile.