There are numerous financial aspects to consider when applying for Canadian Express Entry in the year 2025. From government application fees to proof of settlement funds and ancillary expenses, one should know the entire financial picture surrounding the immigration journey before embarking on the same.
Express Entry Application Fees
Starting in 2025, processing fees for Express Entry permanent residence applications will accrue to the Canadian government. For a single applicant, $950 CAD will charge as the fee, and an additional fee of $575 CAD is there for the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF).
For any spouse/common-law partner application, the same fees of $950 CAD for processing and $575 for the RPRF apply. Each dependent child attached to the application incurs an additional fee of $260 CAD. So, for example, a family of four with two adults and two children will pay close to $3,000 CAD in application fees.
Proof of Funds Requirement
If you are applying under the Federal Skilled Worker Program or the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and you do not have a valid job offer in Canada, proof of settlement funds is required. Either-type applicants under Canadian Experience Class or already having a job offer do not have to provide proof of funds.
The most recent update is for 2024, and the minimum amount for a single applicant stands at $14,690 CAD. This amount rises to $18,288 CAD for two persons. A three-person household needs $22,483 CAD, whereas a four-person family requires $27,297 CAD. The amounts will be increased with every additional family member.
These funds must be readily available and shall not be borrowed. However, they can be in your savings account or any liquid investments that can be easily cashed in.
Additional Costs to Keep in Mind
Besides government fees and settlement funds, there are some other essential costs to bear in mind.
Language Testing
You need to prove your English or French language proficiency by sittin Different tests like the IELTS or CELPIP, costing approximately $300 CAD.
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
For getting the assessment of your foreign educational credentials, you will get an ECA, which normally costs about $200 CAD.
Medical Examination
Each applicant shall undergo a medical examination through an IRCC-approved panel physician. It normally costs about $450 CAD per adult and $250 CAD per child.
Police Clearance Certificates
Police certificates for applicants shall be required from all countries in which they had lived for more than six months since the age of eighteen. Costs vary from country to country but would be close to $100 CAD.
Biometrics
Collecting biometric data is compulsory, costing $85 CAD per person.
Living Expenses in Canada
After arrival in Canada, your first cost of living will likely run approximately $1,500 to $3,000 CAD per month, depending on the city and way of living. This price includes rent, groceries, transport, and a few essentials.
Miscellaneous Expenses
You might as well include minor costs such as airfare, temporary accommodation, local transport, and the purchase of basic furnishings or home essentials. These could total anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 CAD.
Summary of Funds Needed
Basically, the money required to apply for Canadian Express Entry in 2025 will include fees for applications, proof of funds for settlement, and other preparatory expenses.
A single applicant could require approximately $18,000-$20,000 CAD in expenses. For a family of four, the estimate could be anywhere between $35,000-$40,000 CAD by the time they step their foot inside Canada.
Conclusion
Financial preparation is an integral component of the immigration process under Express Entry for Canada in 2025. Fully knowing all the fees-application fees, settlement funds, and living expenses-will allow for better planning, less stress, and an easier transition into the life in Canada.