Are you dreaming of exploring the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse culture of Canada? If so, you might be wondering about the cost of obtaining a Canadian visa. In this article, we will shed light on the important question: How much is the Canada visa fee? Whether you are planning a short visit or intending to make Canada your new home, understanding the visa costs is crucial. So, let’s dive into the details and discover the fees associated with various Canadian visa types.
Visa Fees for Temporary Visits
Tourist Visa (Visitor Visa)
The fee for a Tourist Visa, also known as a Visitor Visa, is CAD $100 per person. This visa allows individuals to visit Canada for tourism purposes, including leisure travel, visiting friends or family, or participating in short-term courses or conferences.
Business Visa
The Business Visa fee is also CAD $100 per person. This visa is designed for individuals who need to visit Canada for business-related activities. This includes attending business meetings, conferences, or exploring potential business opportunities in the country.
Temporary Work Visa
For those who plan to work temporarily in Canada, the Temporary Work Visa fee is CAD $155 per person. This visa is required for individuals who have a job offer in Canada or are part of an exchange program.
Study Permit
The fee for a Study Permit, which allows individuals to study in Canada, is CAD $150 per person. This permit is necessary for international students who have been accepted into a Canadian educational institution.
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
An Electronic Travel Authorization, or eTA, is required for individuals from visa-exempt countries who are traveling to Canada by air. The fee for an eTA is CAD $7 per person. It is important to note that citizens of the United States are exempt from this requirement.
Super Visa
The Super Visa fee is CAD $100 per person. This visa is designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents who want to visit Canada for an extended period of time. The Super Visa allows multiple entries over a span of up to 10 years.
Visa Fees for Permanent Residency
Express Entry
The Express Entry fee for permanent residency in Canada is CAD $1,325 per person. This program is designed for skilled workers who want to immigrate to Canada and become permanent residents.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
The Provincial Nominee Program fee varies depending on the province or territory. The fee ranges from CAD $300 to CAD $550 per person. This program allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals who have the skills and experience required for their local labor market.
Work Permit or Study Permit Holders
Individuals who already hold a valid work permit or study permit in Canada may be eligible to apply for permanent residency. The fee for this category is CAD $1,040 per person.
Family Sponsorship
For those who are being sponsored by a family member who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, the fee for family sponsorship is CAD $1,040 per person. The sponsor must meet certain income requirements and agree to financially support the sponsored person.
Quebec-selected Skilled Workers Program
The fee for the Quebec-selected Skilled Workers Program is CAD $785 per person. This program is specifically for individuals who want to settle in the province of Quebec and who have strong skills and qualifications that align with the province’s workforce needs.
Visa Processing Fees
Processing Fees for Temporary Visits
In addition to the visa fees mentioned above, there are processing fees for temporary visits to Canada. The processing fees are as follows:
- Visitor Visa: CAD $85 per person
- Work Permit: CAD $155 per person
- Study Permit: CAD $150 per person
- Temporary Resident Permit: CAD $200 per person
These processing fees are non-refundable and must be paid at the time of application submission.
Processing Fees for Permanent Residency
The processing fees for permanent residency applications vary depending on the program or category. The fees are as follows:
- Express Entry: CAD $825 per person
- Provincial Nominee Program: CAD $1,040 per person
- Family Sponsorship: CAD $1,040 per person
- Quebec-selected Skilled Workers Program: CAD $785 per person
These processing fees are also non-refundable and must be paid at the time of application submission.
Additional Fees
Biometric Fees
Since December 31, 2018, most applicants for temporary resident visas, study permits, and work permits are required to provide their biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph. The biometric fee is CAD $85 per person or CAD $170 per family.
Medical Examination Fees
Individuals applying for certain visas, such as those intending to work in certain occupations or studying for more than six months, may be required to undergo a medical examination. The fee for the medical examination varies depending on the country and the complexity of the examination.
VAC Service Fees
VAC service fees are charged by Visa Application Centers (VACs), which are third-party service providers authorized by the Government of Canada to assist with visa application processing. These fees cover services such as photocopying, courier services, and additional service options. The fees vary depending on the VAC location and services requested.
Fee Exemptions and Discounts
Certain Countries and Programs
Some countries and programs have Visa Fee Exemption or reduced fees based on reciprocal agreements or international agreements between Canada and those countries. It is recommended to check with the Canadian embassy or consulate in your country to determine if any exemptions or discounts apply.
Family Members of Canadian Citizens/Permanent Residents
Spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children of Canadian citizens or permanent residents may be exempt from certain visa fees. The specific requirements and eligibility criteria for fee exemptions should be verified with the immigration authorities.
Children under 18 years of age
Children under the age of 18 years who are traveling to Canada for temporary visits may be exempt from the visa fee, but they are still required to pay the applicable processing fees.
Refugees
Refugees and protected persons, who have been recognized by the Canadian government as needing protection, are exempt from visa fees for permanent residency applications.
Methods of Payment
Online Payment
Canada’s immigration authorities provide an online payment option for visa fees. This allows applicants to pay their fees online using a credit card or debit card. Online payment is a convenient and efficient method for submitting visa fees.
Credit/Debit Card
Visa and Mastercard credit cards are accepted for payment of visa fees. Debit cards with the Visa Debit or Mastercard Debit logo can also be used for payment. It is important to ensure that the card being used has sufficient funds to cover the visa fees.
Bank Draft
For individuals who prefer not to use online payment or credit/debit cards, bank drafts are accepted as an alternative. Bank drafts should be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada and must be issued by a recognized financial institution.
Fee Refunds
Application Withdrawal
If an application for a visa is withdrawn before it is processed, a refund of the visa fee may be requested. However, processing fees are usually non-refundable. It is important to thoroughly review the refund policy of the specific visa category before withdrawing an application.
Visa Denial
If a visa application is denied, the visa fee is generally not refundable. However, some processing fees may be refunded depending on the circumstances. It is recommended to consult with the immigration authorities for more information about the refund process in case of visa denial.
No-Show or Missed Appointment
In cases where an applicant fails to attend a scheduled appointment at a Visa Application Center or misses a biometric appointment, the visa fee is typically non-refundable. It is important to make every effort to attend the scheduled appointments to avoid forfeiting the visa fee.
Conclusion
Understanding the fee structure for Canadian visas is an essential step in pursuing a temporary visit or permanent residency in the country. By familiarizing yourself with the various visa fees, processing fees, and additional fees, you can ensure that you have the necessary funds to complete the application process successfully.
When considering exemptions and discounts, individuals should thoroughly research their eligibility and consult with the appropriate authorities to determine if any special considerations apply to their situation. Additionally, exploring the different methods of payment available, such as online payment, credit/debit cards, or bank drafts, allows for a convenient and hassle-free fee submission process.
Lastly, it is crucial to understand the refund policies for visa fees, especially in situations involving withdrawal, visa denial, or missed appointments. Being aware of the possibilities and limitations can help applicants make informed decisions and manage their finances effectively throughout the visa application process.
By taking these factors into account, you can navigate the visa fee structure with confidence, ensuring a smooth and successful journey towards your desired visit or permanent residency in Canada.
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