The Real Cost of Immigrating to Canada in 2026: Fees, Documents and First-Months Budget

The cost of immigrating to Canada in 2026 ranges from about $3,700 CAD for a single applicant to roughly $12,500 CAD for a family of four — counting government fees, documentation, language tests and credential assessment. But that is only the process itself. Once you add flights, insurance and your first months of housing and food, the real investment can climb past $25,000 CAD for a couple.

We know that number is intimidating. When most newcomers start researching, every new step seems to bring a surprise fee. This guide breaks down each one, with figures verified in March 2026 from official IRCC sources.

Official government fees: Express Entry and PNP

IRCC fees for Express Entry in 2026 total $1,365 CAD per main applicant — the processing fee plus the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF). A spouse or partner pays the same; each dependent child pays $260 CAD. These are paid directly to the government at submission and are non-refundable if the application is refused. Add $85 CAD per person for biometrics.

If you apply through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), the province charges its own fee on top of the federal amount:

• Ontario (OINP): $1,500 CAD
• British Columbia (BC PNP): $1,150 CAD
• Alberta (AINP): $500 CAD
• Saskatchewan (SINP): $350 CAD
• Nova Scotia (NSNP): $0

Quebec runs its own system through the Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ), with separate fees (around $836 CAD for the main applicant).

Documentation: translation, medical exam and certificates

Documents that are not in English or French need certified translation, and you may also need an apostille on civil records from your home country. Budget roughly $375–$750 CAD for a couple’s translations, plus around $300–$375 CAD per person for the mandatory Immigration Medical Examination (IME), which must be done by an IRCC-approved panel physician. Updated birth and marriage certificates and police certificates add a little more.

Language tests and credential assessment

A language test is required for Express Entry and most PNPs. The IELTS General Training runs about $300 CAD; CELPIP General is $300–$340 CAD; the French TEF or TCF Canada sit around $250–$350 CAD. Results are valid for two years. A French test can add valuable CRS points even if you apply in English.

The Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) confirms your degree is equivalent to a Canadian one — without it, your studies count for zero CRS points. Expect around $360 CAD per person through WES (the most common provider), including document shipping.

Moving and your first months

This is where many newcomers underestimate the budget. Flights for a couple range from about $1,750 to $5,000 CAD depending on the season — book three to four months ahead. Add travel or private health insurance of $80–$200 CAD per person per month until provincial coverage kicks in (Ontario, for example, has a waiting period for OHIP).

Most importantly, set aside at least three months of living costs. For a couple, that cushion is roughly $7,200–$8,600 CAD in a more affordable city and $10,000–$12,000 CAD in Toronto or Vancouver. Don’t forget winter clothing — a good coat is $200–$500 CAD per person.

How to spend less

• Take your language test before you move, where you have more test centres and time to prepare.
• Choose a lower-fee ECA provider if you can wait longer.
• Buy flights in the low season and arrive in summer to find winter clothing on sale.
• Consider smaller cities — rent can be 20–35% lower than in the big capitals.
• Furnish your first home through local marketplaces; many newcomers sell quality used items cheaply.
• Apply as a couple in one process to avoid duplicate processing fees.

A few notes: visa, eTA and visitor-visa requirements vary by nationality — check your eligibility before you plan. If you are bringing a pet, budget roughly $400–$1,280 CAD for the vet certificate, vaccines, an IATA carrier and the airline fee; Canada tightened its dog-import rules in 2024, so confirm the latest CFIA requirements.

Planning this alone is overwhelming, and the numbers shift constantly. The Daitana concierge at Comfort Living helps immigrant families map every cost to their own profile, avoid rental scams and arrive with confidence. Reach out and let’s build your personalized budget together.

Figures verified March 2026. Always check the official IRCC website for the most current information.