Planning to move to Canada permanently? Whether you’re applying via Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or spousal sponsorship, it’s important to understand the real cost of immigration — from language tests to visa fees and settlement funds.
In this guide, we’ll break down the complete cost to immigrate to Canada legally in 2025, especially for applicants from Pakistan, India, and other South Asian countries.
🇨🇦 Key Immigration Streams Covered
- Express Entry (FSWP, CEC, FSTP)
- PNP (Provincial Nominee Program)
- Family Sponsorship (Spouse/Child)
- Student to PR (via Canadian Experience Class)
💰 1. Government Application Fees (IRCC)
| Item | Fee (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Express Entry PR Fee | |
| – Principal applicant | $1,365 |
| – Spouse/partner | $1,365 |
| – Dependent child (each) | $230 |
| Spouse Sponsorship | $1,165 |
| Biometrics (per person) | $85 |
| Medical exam (Pakistan) | $150–$250 |
| Police certificate (Pakistan) | Rs. 500–1,000 (~$5–10) |
🧪 2. IELTS General Training Test (Mandatory)
| Test | Fee (PKR) | Approx. CAD |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS (British Council/IDP) | PKR 60,000–65,000 | $280–$300 CAD |
🎓 3. Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
Required to validate your foreign degree.
| Provider | Fee (CAD) |
|---|---|
| WES | $220 |
| IQAS | $225 |
| CES | $210 |
| Courier Charges | $30–$50 |
💡 Total with courier: $250–$275 CAD
🏦 4. Proof of Funds (Express Entry – FSWP/PNP)
IRCC requires proof that you can support yourself and your family.
| Family Size | Minimum Funds (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $14,690 |
| 2 | $18,288 |
| 3 | $22,483 |
| 4 | $27,297 |
These funds must be:
- In your personal bank account
- Unencumbered (not borrowed)
- Maintained for at least 6 months
📑 5. Other Possible Expenses
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Document translation (if required) | $50–$150 |
| Passport-sized photos | $10–$20 |
| Courier/postage | $20–$40 |
| Travel for medical/police reports | Varies |
| Flight to Canada | PKR 250,000–400,000 (~$1,000–$1,600 CAD) |
| Temporary accommodation in Canada | $500–$1,000 (first month) |
💡 Optional But Helpful Expenses
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Immigration consultant/lawyer | $500–$4,000 |
| IELTS coaching/prep | PKR 10,000–25,000 |
| Resume or LinkedIn makeover for Canadian job market | $100–$300 |
🧮 Estimated Total Cost to Immigrate to Canada (Single Applicant)
| Category | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Government Fees | $1,365 | $1,365 |
| IELTS + ECA | $550 | $600 |
| Medical + Police + Biometrics | $300 | $400 |
| Misc. Expenses | $200 | $400 |
| Total (Excl. Proof of Funds) | $2,400 CAD | $2,800 CAD |
🧠 Final Thoughts
Immigrating to Canada is a life-changing investment. The process is not free, but for many, it’s worth every dollar for the opportunity, safety, and future it provides.
✅ Plan your budget early
✅ Keep bank funds stable
✅ Save up for both fees and landing expenses