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By Benjamin Clarke•Last Updated April 13, 2025

Understanding Canada Visa Fees: Complete Guide to Costs, Steps, and Practical Tips (2025 Edition)

Introduction: Why Canada Visa Fees Matter

When considering a move to Canada-be it for study, work, visiting family, or pursuing permanent residence-understanding the total cost of Canadian visa fees is critical. The application process involves not just the main fee but may also include additional charges such as biometrics, medical exams, and, in some cases, restoration or extension fees. Applicants are often surprised by the cumulative expense, so it is best to be fully informed before you begin. This guide covers the most up-to-date fee structure for 2025, practical payment methods, and actionable steps to help you prepare for your visa application journey.

Breakdown of Canada Visa Fees in 2025

Canadian visa fees vary significantly depending on the type of application and your personal circumstances. Below are the most common categories and their associated costs, based on Canadian government and expert sources.

Temporary Residence Visas

Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa): The standard fee is CAD $100 per person for single or multiple entries. Families applying together may be eligible for a maximum fee of CAD $500 if all applications are submitted at the same time and place, with children qualifying as dependants [1] [2] . The Super Visa, which allows parents and grandparents to visit long-term, also costs CAD $100 .

Study Permit: For students, the application fee is CAD $150 . Extensions require the same fee, and restoring your status if it lapses costs CAD $389.75 (which includes both restoration and new permit fees) [1] .

Work Permit: The fee for an open or employer-specific work permit is CAD $155 , with an added CAD $100 for an open work permit holder. If you need to restore your status and get a new permit, the total is CAD $394.75 [2] .

Permanent Residence Fees

Economic Immigration (including Express Entry): The main application fee is CAD $1,525 (includes the processing fee and the right of permanent residence fee). Each accompanying spouse or partner pays the same, and dependent children are CAD $260 per child [1] [3] .

Family Sponsorship: Sponsoring your spouse or partner is CAD $1,205 ; each dependent child is CAD $175 [2] [1] .

Other Common Fees

Biometrics: Most applicants must provide biometrics, costing CAD $85 per person or CAD $170 for a family applying together. Biometrics are required for most visa types and are paid in addition to the main application fee [1] .

Temporary Resident Permit: This special permit has a fee of CAD $200-$239.75 , depending on recent updates [4] .

Factors Influencing Canada Visa Fees

Visa fees are subject to change and may vary based on:

Type of application: Fees differ for visitors, workers, students, and immigrants.
Number of applicants: Fees increase for families or multiple dependents.
Additional requirements: Medical exams, police checks, and biometrics add to the total cost.
Country of application: Some countries may have additional service charges or currency conversion costs.

For instance, Indian applicants typically pay the same base fees, but should also account for currency exchange rates and possible bank charges [5] .

How to Pay Canada Visa Fees

All fees must be paid in Canadian dollars. Payment is usually made online via the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal using a credit or debit card. Some applicants may use digital payment portals or bank drafts, depending on their location and the requirements of their visa application center.

To pay your fees, you should:

Visit the official IRCC fee payment page by searching for “IRCC pay fees” in your web browser.
Follow instructions to select your visa type and number of applicants.
Pay the total amount using the available payment options (credit/debit card recommended for most countries).
Save and print your payment receipt, as you must include it with your application.

Applicants outside Canada should be mindful of exchange rates and potential additional fees from their bank or payment provider.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Canadian Visa

The process can vary depending on the type of visa, but these are the core steps for most applicants:

Determine which visa category applies to you. Carefully review the eligibility requirements for visitor, study, work, or permanent residence visas on the official IRCC website.
Gather required documents. This typically includes your passport, proof of funds, acceptance letters (for students), job offer (for workers), or sponsorship documents (for family class).
Complete your online application. Most applications are now submitted online through the IRCC portal. Paper applications are accepted only in limited circumstances.
Pay your visa fees online. Follow the payment instructions outlined above.
Submit biometrics and attend interviews if required. After submitting your application, you may receive instructions to provide biometrics at a local visa application center or embassy.
Track your application status. You can check progress by logging into your IRCC account.

If you are uncertain which forms or fees apply, consider consulting the IRCC Application Guides or contacting a licensed immigration professional.

Examples and Case Studies

Student Visa Example: A student from India planning to study in Toronto in 2025 would pay:

Study Permit: CAD $150
Biometrics: CAD $85
Additional costs: Medical exam fees (variable), police clearance, and possible courier charges.

In this scenario, the basic required fees total CAD $235, not including third-party expenses.

Family Sponsorship Example: A Canadian permanent resident sponsoring a spouse and two children would pay:

Spouse sponsorship: CAD $1,205
Each child: CAD $175 x 2 = CAD $350

Total: CAD $1,555, plus biometrics and any additional service fees.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Challenge: Fee changes and currency fluctuations can lead to confusion or underpayment, causing application delays or rejections.

Solution: Always verify the current fee schedule on the official IRCC website before submitting your application. Set aside extra funds to cover unforeseen costs and monitor exchange rates closely if paying from outside Canada.

Challenge: Missing documents or incorrect payment receipts are common reasons for processing delays.

Solution: Double-check all documents against the checklist provided in the IRCC Application Guide for your visa type. Store digital and printed copies of your payment receipts.

Alternative Approaches and Additional Resources

If you are not sure about your eligibility or which visa best fits your situation, you may:

Search for “Canada Visa Wizard” or “IRCC Help Centre” to access decision-making tools and FAQs.
Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or authorized lawyer if your case is complex.
Join forums or local community groups for recent applicant experiences and support.

Remember, only the official IRCC website and licensed professionals can provide authoritative advice. Avoid unofficial websites or unverified agents to prevent scams and misinformation.

Key Takeaways

Canada visa fees in 2025 are structured by visa type and applicant category, with additional costs for biometrics, medical exams, and dependent family members. It’s crucial to check the most recent fee schedule, follow payment instructions carefully, and keep all receipts. For further guidance, always refer to the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or consult a licensed immigration expert.