Canada Visa Fee Structure

Introduction

Navigating the visa application process for Canada involves understanding the various fees associated with different types of visas. This guide aims to break down the Canada visa fee structure, providing clear and comprehensive information to help applicants plan and manage their expenses effectively.

Overview of Canada Visa Fees

Visa fees for Canada vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s specific circumstances. It’s important to stay updated on any changes to the fee structure to ensure accurate budgeting.

General Fee Structure

Canada’s visa fees are structured based on the type of visa, the number of applicants, and additional services required. Fees are generally categorized into:

  • Application Fees: Charged for processing the visa application.
  • Biometrics Fees: Required for capturing fingerprints and photographs.
  • Medical Examination Fees: Costs for mandatory health checks.
  • Other Fees: Including right of permanent residence, extension fees, etc.

Recent Changes in Fees

The Canadian government periodically reviews and adjusts visa fees. Applicants should check the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for the most current information.

Temporary Resident Visa (Visitor Visa) Fees

Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs) are for individuals visiting Canada for a short duration.

Single-entry Visa

  • Fee: CAD 100
  • Allows one-time entry to Canada during the visa’s validity.

Multiple-entry Visa

  • Fee: CAD 100
  • Permits multiple entries to Canada for up to 10 years or until the passport expires.

Super Visa

  • Fee: CAD 100
  • Specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, allowing multiple entries for up to 10 years.

Work Permit Fees

Work permits are necessary for foreign nationals intending to work in Canada temporarily.

Open Work Permit

  • Fee: CAD 155
  • Allows the holder to work for any employer in Canada.

Employer-specific Work Permit

  • Fee: CAD 155
  • Tied to a specific employer, requiring a new permit if changing jobs.

Fees for Accompanying Family Members

  • Spouse/Partner: CAD 255 (including open work permit fee)
  • Dependent Children: CAD 150 each

Study Permit Fees

Foreign nationals studying in Canada require a study permit.

Study Permit Application Fee

  • Fee: CAD 150
  • Required for the primary applicant.

Additional Fees for Family Members

  • Spouse/Partner: CAD 255 (open work permit)
  • Dependent Children: CAD 150 each (study permit if applicable)

Permanent Resident Visa Fees

Permanent residency fees vary based on the immigration program.

Economic Immigration Fees

  • Express Entry: CAD 1,325 (including right of permanent residence fee)
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Varies by province, generally around CAD 1,325

Family Sponsorship Fees

  • Spousal Sponsorship: CAD 1,050
  • Dependent Child Sponsorship: CAD 150 each

Refugee and Humanitarian Program Fees

  • Application Fee: Generally waived
  • Right of Permanent Residence Fee: CAD 500

Biometrics Fees

Biometric data collection is mandatory for most applicants.

Biometrics Collection Fee

  • Fee: CAD 85 per person
  • Family Maximum: CAD 170

Who Needs to Pay

Most visa applicants aged 14 to 79.

Exemptions

Diplomats, official representatives, and certain visa categories.

Medical Examination Fees

Medical exams are required for certain visa categories and applicants.

Average Costs

  • Fee: Varies, typically CAD 200-300
  • Costs depend on the applicant’s country of residence and the panel physician.

Approved Panel Physicians

Exams must be conducted by IRCC-approved panel physicians.

Payment Methods

Fees are paid directly to the physician.

Other Applicable Fees

Right of Permanent Residence Fee

  • Fee: CAD 500
  • Paid by individuals granted permanent residency.

Citizenship Application Fee

  • Fee: CAD 630
  • For adults applying for Canadian citizenship.

Visa Extension Fees

  • Visitor Visa Extension: CAD 100
  • Study Permit Extension: CAD 150
  • Work Permit Extension: CAD 155

Payment Methods

Applicants can pay visa fees through various methods.

Online Payment

  • Credit or debit card payments via the IRCC website.

Payment at Visa Application Centers

  • Cash, credit card, or debit card payments at designated centers.

Bank Drafts and Money Orders

  • Accepted for paper applications, made payable to the “Receiver General for Canada.”

Refund Policies

Understanding refund policies is crucial to managing finances.

Conditions for Refund

Refunds are generally issued if:

  • The application is withdrawn before processing.
  • An error is made in charging fees.

How to Request a Refund

Requests can be made through the IRCC online portal or by contacting the visa office.

Non-refundable Fees

Biometric fees and most processing fees are non-refundable.

Fee Waivers and Reductions

Certain applicants may be eligible for fee waivers or reductions.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Humanitarian cases
  • Refugee applicants
  • Certain family sponsorships

Application Process for Fee Waivers

Applicants must submit a request with supporting documents.

How to Calculate Total Visa Costs

Calculating the total cost involves adding up various fees.

Breakdown of Fees

  • Application Fee
  • Biometrics Fee
  • Medical Exam Fee
  • Other applicable fees

Example Calculations

For a single applicant:

  • Visitor Visa: CAD 100 (application) + CAD 85 (biometrics) = CAD 185
  • Work Permit: CAD 155 (application) + CAD 85 (biometrics) = CAD 240

Additional Costs to Consider

  • Travel insurance
  • Document translation
  • Legal consultation

Common Questions About Visa Fees

How much does a Canada visitor visa cost? A single-entry and multiple-entry visitor visa each cost CAD 100.

Are visa fees refundable? Most visa fees are non-refundable, except under specific conditions such as application withdrawal before processing.

Do I need to pay for biometrics? Yes, most applicants need to pay a biometrics fee of CAD 85.

What is the fee for a work permit? The fee for a work permit is CAD 155.

Can I get a fee waiver for my visa application? Fee waivers are available for certain humanitarian cases, refugees, and some family sponsorships.

How do I pay my visa fees? Visa fees can be paid online, at visa application centers, or via bank drafts and money orders.

Tips for Managing Visa Costs

Budgeting for Visa Application

  • Start saving early.
  • Keep track of all expenses.
  • Allocate funds for unexpected costs.

Saving Tips

  • Apply during off-peak times to avoid additional costs.
  • Bundle applications to save on biometrics fees for families.
  • Use online payment methods to avoid extra charges.

Utilizing Financial Resources

  • Look for scholarships if applying for a study permit.
  • Seek financial aid from employers or family for work permits.

How Visa Fees Compare Globally

Comparison with Other Countries

  • Canada’s visa fees are competitive compared to countries like the USA, UK, and Australia.
  • Some countries offer lower fees but may have stricter eligibility criteria.

Factors Influencing Fee Structures

  • Government policies
  • Administrative costs
  • Inflation and economic conditions

Impact of Fees on Immigration Decisions

Affordability and Access

  • High fees can be a barrier for low-income applicants.
  • Fee structures impact the volume and demographics of visa applicants.

Trends in Visa Applications

  • Fluctuations in fees influence application rates.
  • Economic and political factors play a significant role.

Policy Implications

  • Fee adjustments are often used to manage immigration levels.
  • Subsidies and waivers can support humanitarian goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fee for a study permit in Canada? The study permit application fee is CAD 150.

Can visa fees be paid in installments? Visa fees must be paid in full at the time of application.

Are there any hidden costs in the visa application process? Additional costs may include medical exams, document translations, and travel insurance.

How long are biometrics valid? Biometrics are valid for 10 years for visa applications.

Can I apply for a fee waiver online? Fee waiver requests typically require additional documentation and may not be fully processed online.

Is the right of permanent residence fee mandatory? Yes, it is mandatory for most permanent residence applications, except for certain exemptions.

Conclusion

Understanding the Canada visa fee structure is essential for effective financial planning and a successful visa application. By familiarizing yourself with the various fees, payment methods, and potential waivers, you can navigate the process with confidence. Always check the latest information on the official IRCC website to stay updated on any changes to fees and policies.