Canadian Visa Fee & Processing Time
The Canadian government charges fees for most visa applications, including tourist visas, work permits, and study permits. The fees vary depending on the type of visa and the length of stay in Canada. Additionally, there may be additional fees for services such as biometric data collection and expedited processing.
The processing time for Canadian visas can also vary depending on the type of visa and the volume of applications being processed. Generally, it can take several weeks to several months to receive a decision on a visa application. The Canadian government provides estimated processing times on their website for each type of visa application, but these times are subject to change and may not reflect the actual processing time for each individual case.
For example, the processing time for a visitor visa application can range from two weeks to several months, depending on the location of the applicant and the time of year. Similarly, the processing time for a work permit application can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the type of work being done and the location of the employer.
In some cases, applicants may be eligible for expedited processing, which can reduce the processing time to a matter of days. However, expedited processing is only available in certain circumstances and may require an additional fee.
It is important to note that visa processing times and fees are subject to change and can vary depending on the individual circumstances of each case. Therefore, it is important to check the most up-to-date information on the Canadian government website or consult with an immigration lawyer or consultant to understand the specific requirements and fees for your visa application.
Overall, understanding the fees and processing times for Canadian visas is an important part of planning a trip or applying for a work or study permit. By researching the requirements and seeking professional guidance if needed, applicants can help ensure a smooth and timely application process.
Canadian Visa Fee
When applying for a Canada visa, you will be required to pay a visa application fee and any other fees that are necessary for processing your application. These fees are commonly referred to as Embassy Fees for Canada and are dependent on the type of visa you are applying for. There are five groups of Canada visa fees, which include:
Temporary residence fees: These fees apply to those who are applying for a temporary visa to Canada, such as a visitor visa, study permit, or work permit. The fees vary based on the type of visa being applied for and the length of stay.
Permanent residence fees: These fees apply to those who are applying for permanent residency in Canada, such as through the Express Entry system or through a Provincial Nominee Program. The fees depend on the type of application being submitted and the number of family members included in the application.
Family sponsorship fees: These fees apply to those who are sponsoring a family member to come to Canada. The fees depend on the type of sponsorship being applied for, such as spousal sponsorship or parent and grandparent sponsorship.
Citizenship fees: These fees apply to those who are applying for Canadian citizenship. The fees vary based on whether the applicant is an adult or a minor.
Other applications and services fees: These fees apply to other services provided by the Canadian government, such as passport applications or citizenship certificate applications.
It's important to note that the fees are subject to change, and it's recommended to check the Government of Canada website for the most up-to-date information on visa fees. Additionally, the fees are non-refundable, even if the visa application is denied.
Canada Temporary Residence Fees
The temporary residence fees refer to the fees associated with temporary visas granted to international visitors in Canada, such as tourist visas and student visas. These fees fall under the temporary residence category, which is one of the five groups of Canada visa fees. The other groups include permanent residence fees, family sponsorship fees, citizenship fees, and other applications and services fees. It's important to note that the temporary residence fees vary depending on the type of visa being applied for and the duration of stay in Canada.
Canada Visitor Visa Fee
Type of fee |
$CAN |
The fee for a Visitor Visa Application, which includes the Super Visa, is charged per person. This fee applies to a Temporary Resident Visa for single or multiple entries. |
100 |
If there are five or more people applying for a Temporary Resident Visa for single or multiple entries, the Visitor Visa Application Fee is charged per group rather than per person. To qualify for this fee, all family members must submit their Visitor Visa Application at the same time, and any children included in the application must be under 22 years of age. |
500 |
The fee for an extension of stay for a visitor is charged per person. |
100 |
There is no application fee for restoring status as a visitor. |
200 |
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) Fees
Type of fee |
$CAN |
There is a fee for the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) application. |
7 |
Work Permit Fees
Type of fee |
$CAN |
The Work Permit Application Fee, which includes extension applications, is charged per person |
155 |
If a group of three or more performing artists apply for a Work Permit Application Fee together, each individual must still pay for their own Visitor Visa, if applicable. The fee for the Work Permit Application for this group of performing artists is charged as a group rather than per person. |
465 |
There is a fee for applying for an Open Work Permit. |
100 |
There is no fee for restoring status as a worker. |
355 (Includes restoration of status fee of $200 and a new work permit fee for $155) |
Study Permit Fees
Type of fee |
$CAN |
The Study Permit Application Fee, which includes extensions, is charged per person. |
150 |
There is no fee for restoring status as a student. |
350 (Restoration of status is $200 and a new study permit for $150) |
Biometric fees
If the Canadian Embassy requires you to provide your biometrics as part of your visa application, the associated costs will be included in your Canada visa fees. These fees will cover the expenses associated with collecting your fingerprints and a digital photograph. Moreover, if you have submitted your application through a Visa Application Center (VAC), the fees will also include the costs of the core services provided by the VAC, such as reviewing your application for completeness, forwarding your application to the embassy, transmitting your passport and supporting documents to and from the embassy, and tracking your application submitted online. It's important to note that biometric fees are non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied.
Type of fee |
$CAN |
There is a Biometrics Fee that is charged per person. |
85 |
For families of two or more members, there is a maximum total Biometrics Fee that can be charged. |
170 |
For a group of three or more performing artists, there is a maximum total Biometrics Fee that can be charged. |
255 |
Canada Permanent Residence Fees
Permanent residence fees refer to the various fees that individuals must pay to the Canadian government in order to become permanent residents of the country. There are eight types of fees that may apply, including the application processing fee, the right of permanent residence fee, the biometrics fee, the language testing fee, the educational credential assessment fee, the police certificate fee, the medical exam fee, and the immigration consultant fee (if applicable). These fees can vary depending on the type of application being submitted and the specific circumstances of the applicant. Overall, permanent residence fees can be a significant expense for those seeking to immigrate to Canada.
Right of permanent residence fee (RPRF)
The fee being referred to in this context is likely the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF), which is a fee that most applicants for permanent residence in Canada must pay when their application is approved. The RPRF is a nonrefundable fee and must be paid before the applicant can become a permanent resident. However, if an applicant withdraws their application or the Canadian government refuses it, the RPRF will be refunded. It's important to note that the RPRF is just one of several fees that may apply to a permanent residence application, and the specific fees and amounts can vary depending on the type of application and the individual circumstances of the applicant.
The Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) does not apply to the following individuals:
- dependent children of the primary sponsor or applicant,
- sponsorship applications for adopted children,
- sponsorship applications for an orphaned sister,
- brother, nephew, niece, or grandchild, and protected persons such as convention refugees or those eligible on humanitarian and compassionate grounds.
Type of fee |
$CAN |
The Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) is a fee charged by the Canadian government for certain immigration applications. |
490 |
Business Immigration Fees
Business immigration fees in Canada are specific fees that apply to individuals who are seeking to immigrate to Canada under specific business-related immigration programs. The fees can vary depending on the program being applied for and the specific circumstances of the applicant. Here are some examples of business immigration programs and the fees that apply:
- Self-employed people;
- Quebec business immigration;
- Start-up visa;
Type of fee |
$CAN |
The Permanent Residence Application Fee is a fee charged by the Canadian government for certain immigration applications related to obtaining permanent resident status in Canada. |
1,540 (The Permanent Residence Application Fee includes a processing fee of $1,050 as well as the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) of $490) |
The Permanent Residence Application Fee that excludes the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) is charged for certain immigration applications related to obtaining permanent resident status in Canada. |
1,050 |
The Application Fee for certain immigration applications may include the spouse or common-law partner of the primary applicant. |
1,040 (The Application Fee for certain immigration applications that include the spouse or common-law partner of the primary applicant includes a processing fee of $550 as well as the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) of $490.) |
The Application Fee for certain immigration applications that include the spouse or common-law partner of the primary applicant and exclude the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF). |
550 |
The Application Fee for certain immigration applications may include a dependent child and is charged per child. |
150 |
Economic Immigration Fees
Economic immigration fees in Canada refer to the various fees that individuals must pay when applying for economic immigration programs. These programs are designed to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and investors to Canada, and the fees can vary depending on the program being applied for and the specific circumstances of the applicant. Here are some examples of economic immigration programs and the fees that apply:
These fees apply to various economic immigration programs in Canada, including the Atlantic Immigration Pilot, caregiver programs, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades, Federal Skilled Workers, Quebec-selected skilled workers, Provincial Nominee Programs, and Express Entry.
Type of fee |
$CAN |
The Economic Immigration Application Fee is a fee charged for applications related to economic immigration programs, such as Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs. The fee varies depending on the specific program and the number of applicants. |
1,040 (This fee includes a processing fee of $550 and a Right of Permanent Residence Fee of $490 for certain economic immigration applications. ) |
The economic immigration application fee without Right of Permanent Residence Fee may vary depending on the program and the number of applicants. |
550 |
Application fee including spouse or common-law partner |
1,040 (Includes processing fee of $550 and right of permanent residence fee of $490) |
Application fee including spouse or common-law partner (without right of permanent residence fee) |
550 |
Application fee including a dependent child – per child |
150 |
Humanitarian and compassionate immigration fees
Type of fee |
$CAN |
Application fee |
1,040 (Includes processing fee of $550 and right of permanent residence fee of $490) |
Application fee (without right of permanent residence fee) |
550 |
Application fee including spouse or common-law partner |
1,040 (Includes processing fee of $550 and right of permanent residence fee of $490) |
Application fee including spouse or common-law partner (without right of permanent residence fee) |
550 |
Application fee including a dependent child – per child |
150 |
Protected persons immigration fees
Type of fee |
$CAN |
Protected persons application fee |
550 |
Protected persons application fee including your spouse or common-law partner |
550 |
Application fee including a dependent child – per child |
150 |
Permit Holders Class Fees
Type of fee |
$CAN |
Permit holders class application fee |
815 (Includes processing fee of $325 and right of permanent residence fee $490) |
Permit holders class application fee (without right of permanent residence fee) |
325 |
Permanent resident cards fee
When an individual is granted permanent residence in Canada, they will be issued a permanent resident card (PR card) as proof of their status. The PR card is an important document that allows permanent residents to enter and exit Canada and serves as proof of their status as a permanent resident.
Type of fee |
$CAN |
Permanent resident card |
50 |
Permanent resident travel document
If a permanent resident card (PR card) is lost or stolen while the holder is outside Canada, they may need to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) in order to return to Canada.
Type of fee |
$CAN |
Permanent resident travel document |
50 |
Canada Family Sponsorship Fees
Family sponsorships are a way for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their family members to come and live in Canada. There are three types of family sponsorship fees, which include:
Sponsoring adopted children and other relatives
Type of fee |
$CAN |
Sponsor a relative who is 22 years or older |
1,040 (Includes the sponsorship fee of $75, processing fee of $475, and right of permanent residence fee of $490) |
Sponsor a relative who is 22 years or older (without right of permanent residence fee) |
550 (Includes the sponsorship fee of $75, processing fee of $475) |
Sponsor a dependent or adopted child, or orphaned relative – per child |
150 (Includes sponsorship fee of $75 and processing fee of $75) |
Sponsor a relative who is under 22 years old and not your dependent child |
640 (Includes sponsorship fee of $75, processing fee of $75, and right of permanent residence fee of $490) |
Sponsor a relative who is under 22 years old and not your dependent child (without right of permanent residence fee) |
150 (Includes sponsorship fee of $75 and processing fee of $75) |
Sponsorship including the spouse or common law partner of your relative |
1,040 (Includes processing fee of $550 and right of permanent residence fee of $490) |
Sponsorship including the spouse or common law partner of your relative (without right of permanent residence fee) |
550 |
Sponsor your parents and grandparents
Type of fee |
$CAN |
Sponsor your parent or grandparent |
1,040 (Includes sponsorship fee of $75, processing fee of $475, and right of permanent residence fee of $490) |
Sponsor your parent or grandparent (without the right of permanent residence fee) |
550 (Includes sponsorship fee of $75 and processing fee of $475) |
Sponsorship including the spouse or common-law partner of your parent or grandparent |
1,040 (Includes processing fee of $550 and right of permanent residence fee of $490) |
Sponsorship including the spouse or common-law partner of your parent or grandparent (without the right of permanent residence fee) |
550 |
Sponsorship including a dependent child of your parent or grandparent – per child |
150 |
Sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, or children
Type of fee |
$CAN |
Sponsor your spouse or common-law partner |
1,040 (Includes sponsorship fee of $75, processing fee of $475, and right of permanent residence fee of $490) |
Sponsor your spouse or common-law partner (without the right of permanent residence fee) |
550 (Includes sponsorship fee of $75 and processing fee of $475) |
Sponsor a dependent child – per child |
150 (Includes sponsorship fee of $75 and processing fee of $75) |
Sponsorship including any dependent child – per child. (You can include any dependent child on an application with your spouse or common-law partner) |
150 |
Canada Citizenship Fees
These fees are applicable for individuals who are applying for Canadian citizenship, and can include application fees as well as other fees.
Citizenship application fees
Type of fee |
$CAN |
Adopted adult who is 18 years old or more |
630 (Includes processing fee of $530 and right of citizenship fee of $100) |
Adult who is 18 years old or more |
630 |
Stateless adult who is 18 years old or more and born to a Canadian parent |
100 |
Adopted minor who is under 18 years old |
100 |
Minor who is under 18 years old |
100 |
Other citizenship fees
Type of fee |
$CAN |
Citizenship certificate |
75 |
Search for your record of citizenship |
75 |
Resume your Canadian citizenship (for those who are 18 years old or more) |
530 |
Resume your Canadian citizenship (for those who are under 18 years old) |
100 |
Renounce your citizenship |
100 |
Right of citizenship fee |
100 |
Other Canada Visa Application Fees
In addition to the various fees mentioned above, there are also some Canadian visa application fees that do not necessarily fit into any specific category. These fees can vary depending on the type of visa being applied for and the specific circumstances of the applicant. Here are some examples of such fees:
Type of fee |
$CAN |
Temporary Resident Permit Fee |
200 |
Verifying status or replacing an immigration document |
30 |
Inadmissibility on criminal grounds |
200 |
Inadmissibility on serious criminality grounds |
1,000 |
Authorization to return to Canada |
400 |
Repaying removal expenses for the USA and St. Pierre and Miquelon |
750 |
Repaying removal expenses for any other country |
1,500 |
International Experience Canada participation fee |
150 |
Employer compliance fee |
230 |
Employer compliance fee for a group of 3 or more entertainers |
690 |
Factors That Affect Canadian Visa Processing Time
Certainly, here are some factors that can affect Canadian visa processing time:
Type of visa: The type of visa you're applying for can significantly affect the processing time. For example, some visa categories may require additional background checks or security clearances, which can take longer to process.
Country of origin: Your country of origin can also impact processing time, as some countries may have higher levels of security risks or require additional documentation.
Completeness and accuracy of application: Any errors or omissions in your visa application can cause delays or even result in a denial of your application. Ensure that all required documents and information are submitted accurately and completely.
Volume of applications: High volumes of visa applications can cause delays in processing time, particularly during peak travel seasons.
Response time to requests for additional information: If additional information or documentation is requested by Canadian immigration officials, it is important to provide a prompt and thorough response to avoid further delays.
Security and background checks: Certain visa categories may require additional security or background checks, which can add significant processing time.
Consular workload: The workload of Canadian consular offices can also impact processing time, particularly in countries with a high demand for visas.
It's important to note that processing times can vary and are not always predictable. It's always best to apply for your Canadian visa well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow for sufficient processing time.
Understanding Processing Time Estimates for Canadian Visas
Here are some important points to understand about processing time estimates for Canadian visas:
- Processing times vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for, as well as the country you are applying from. You can check the estimated processing times for your specific situation on the Canadian government's website.
- Processing times are estimated in weeks, and are calculated from the date that your complete application is received by the Canadian visa office. This includes all required documents, fees, and any biometric information.
- Processing times are just estimates and can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the volume of applications, the complexity of your case, and whether additional information or documentation is required.
- You should not make any travel arrangements until you receive your visa, as processing times are subject to change and there is no guarantee that you will receive your visa by a certain date.
- If you need your visa processed more quickly, you may be able to apply for expedited processing or priority processing. This typically involves paying an additional fee and providing additional documentation to support your request.
- It's important to note that even with expedited processing, there is no guarantee that your visa application will be processed within a certain timeframe.
If your visa application is taking longer than the estimated processing time, you can check the status of your application online or contact the Canadian visa office for an update. However, it's important to be patient and understand that processing times can vary, and that contacting the visa office may not speed up the process.
Expedited Processing Options for Canadian Visas
There are a few expedited processing options available for Canadian visas, but they may not be available for all types of visas and not all applicants may be eligible for them. Here are some of the options:
Urgent processing: This option is available for visitor visas, study permits, and work permits. With this option, your application will be processed faster than the standard processing time, but there is an additional fee.
Express Entry: This is a system for managing applications for permanent residence under certain economic immigration programs, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Express Entry has a faster processing time than other immigration programs, and applicants may receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence within a few months of submitting their Express Entry profile.
Global Skills Strategy: This is a program designed to help Canadian employers attract top talent from around the world. With the Global Skills Strategy, employers can get faster processing of work permit applications for highly skilled workers, and the workers themselves may be eligible for two-week processing.
It's important to note that not all applicants may be eligible for these expedited processing options, and there may be additional requirements or fees associated with each option. You should consult the website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or a qualified immigration professional for more information.
Tracking Your Canadian Visa Application Status
You can track the status of your Canadian visa application by using the online tool provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Here are the steps to follow:
- Go to the IRCC website and click on "Check application status" in the top right corner of the page.
- On the next page, enter your application number or client ID, along with your date of birth, and click "Submit."
- You will then be taken to a page that shows the current status of your application. The status may indicate that your application is being processed, that additional documents are required, or that a decision has been made.
- If your application has been approved, you will be instructed on how to proceed with obtaining your visa. If your application has been refused, you will be given the reason(s) for the refusal.
It's important to note that the online tool is only updated once per day, so it may not show the most up-to-date information on your application status. If you have any questions or concerns about the status of your application, you can contact the IRCC directly for assistance
Dealing with Delays or Denials in Canadian Visa Processing
Here are some tips on dealing with delays or denials in Canadian visa processing:
Dealing with Delays:
- Check the status of your application: If your application is taking longer than the estimated processing time, check the status of your application online or contact the Canadian visa office for an update.
- Be patient: Visa processing times can vary depending on a number of factors. While it can be frustrating to wait, it's important to be patient and avoid making any travel arrangements until you have received your visa.
- Provide additional information: If the visa office requests additional information or documentation, provide it as soon as possible to avoid further delays.
- Follow up: If you have not received a response or an update on your application, follow up with the visa office to inquire about the status.
Dealing with Denials:
- Understand the reason for the denial: If your visa application is denied, it's important to understand the reason for the denial. This will help you determine whether you can reapply or if there are other options available.
- Seek legal advice: If you believe that the denial was unjustified or based on incorrect information, consider seeking legal advice.
- Review and appeal: Depending on the reason for the denial, you may be able to review or appeal the decision. Follow the instructions provided in the denial letter to determine the next steps.
- Consider other options: If your visa application is denied, consider other options for visiting Canada, such as a different type of visa or a visit to a different country.
It's important to note that dealing with delays or denials in Canadian visa processing can be a complex and stressful process. If you are unsure about any aspect of the application or appeal process, consider seeking legal or professional advice to help you navigate the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
The fee for a Canadian visa varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and where you are applying from. You can find the specific fee for your visa application on the website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The processing time for a Canadian visa depends on the type of visa you are applying for and where you are applying from. The processing time can range from a few weeks to several months. You can find the estimated processing time for your visa application on the website of IRCC.
It may be possible to expedite your Canadian visa application, but this depends on the type of visa you are applying for and where you are applying from. Some visa applications can be expedited for an additional fee. You can find more information about expedited processing on the website of IRCC.
You can pay the fee for your Canadian visa application online through the IRCC website. The website accepts various methods of payment, including credit cards and PayPal.
Yes, you need to pay the fee for your Canadian visa application upfront. Your application will not be processed until the fee has been paid in full.