Affordable PR Application Cost Structure
Complete Guide to Canadian PR Fees
On This Page You Will Find:
- Overview of Canadian permanent residence fees
- Detailed application fee breakdown
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee explained
- Biometrics fee structure
- Estimated total cost examples
- Payment methods & timelines
Summary
Applying for Canadian permanent residence in 2025 involves several distinct fees. The primary costs include the application processing fee for principal applicants and accompanying adult dependents, a reduced fee for minor children, the Right of Permanent Residence Fee paid by adult applicants, and a one-time biometrics charge. Altogether, a family of four could expect to pay between CAD 2,735 and CAD 3,095, depending on ages and family size. Understanding each component and planning payment methods in advance will help ensure a smooth submission process.
Overview of Canadian Permanent Residence Fees
Every permanent residence application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires:
- Application Processing Fee – Charged per applicant.
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) – Paid only by adult applicants who intend to become permanent residents.
- Biometrics Fee – A flat rate per family or per individual, depending on the number of applicants.
Additional expenses—such as medical exams, police certificates, and translation services—are separate from IRCC’s fees and vary by provider.
Application Fee Breakdown
- Principal Applicant (age 18+): CAD 850
- Spouse or Common-Law Partner (age 18+): CAD 850
- Dependent Children (age under 18): CAD 230 each
These amounts cover the administrative cost of processing your PR application and are non-refundable once paid.
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)
Adult applicants who will settle in Canada must also pay the Right of Permanent Residence Fee:
- Principal Applicant: CAD 515
- Spouse or Common-Law Partner: CAD 515
Once your application is approved and you confirm you will come to Canada, the RPRF is returned as a credit to your account and applied to final landing fees.
Biometrics Fee Structure
All permanent residence applicants must provide fingerprints and a photo:
- Single Applicant: CAD 85
- Family of Two or More: CAD 170 (flat rate)
Biometrics appointments are generally booked within 30 days of IRCC’s request and must be completed at an approved service location.
Estimated Total Cost Examples
| Family Composition | Processing Fees | RPRF Total | Biometrics | Grand Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Applicant | CAD 850 | CAD 515 | CAD 85 | CAD 1,450 |
| Applicant + Spouse | CAD 1,700 | CAD 1,030 | CAD 170 | CAD 2,900 |
| Family of Two Adults + Two Children | CAD 2,630 | CAD 1,030 | CAD 170 | CAD 3,830 |
| Family of One Adult + Three Children | CAD 1,540 | CAD 515 | CAD 170 | CAD 2,225 |
Note: These examples exclude ancillary costs such as medical examinations, police certificates, and document translations.
Payment Methods & Timelines
- Online Payment: Credit card via the IRCC secure portal (instant confirmation).
- Paper Applications: Bank draft or certified cheque made payable to “Receiver General for Canada.”
- Timeline Considerations:
- Processing fee payment secures your file number immediately.
- RPRF is only charged if you confirm your intent to land as a permanent resident.
- Biometrics fees must be paid before booking your appointment, typically within 30 days of IRCC’s request.
Conclusion
Being well-prepared for IRCC’s fee requirements ensures no surprises during your permanent residence application. Allocate budget for both IRCC fees and related third-party expenses, monitor your IRCC account for fee requests, and complete biometrics promptly. This proactive approach will streamline your path to becoming a Canadian permanent resident.
