Canada continues to be a favoured destination for individuals seeking better job opportunities and quality of life. If you’re planning to work in Canada, it’s crucial to understand the costs associated with obtaining a Canada work visa. This comprehensive guide will cover all aspects of Canada work visa fees, additional costs, and tips on making the process cost-efficient.
Introduction to Canada Work Visa Fees
Obtaining a work visa for Canada involves several steps and associated costs. The fees for a Canada work visa vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for, the specific requirements of your application, and additional costs like medical exams and police certificates. The different types of work visas cater to varying needs, including employer-specific permits, open work permits, and temporary foreign worker programs. In this section, we will provide an overview of the general fees and costs you can expect when applying for a Canada work visa in 2024.
Breakdown of Different Canada Work Visa Fees
The fees for Canada work visas can be categorized based on the type of visa and specific Canada work visa requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the most common work visa fees:
Employer-Specific Work Permit Fees
If you are applying for an employer-specific work permit, the following fees apply:
- Work permit (including extensions) – per person: CAD 155
- Work permit (including extensions) – per group (3 or more performing artists): CAD 465
- Open work permit holder: CAD 100 (additional fee over the work permit fee)
- Restore your status as a worker: CAD 384 (restore status fee of CAD 229 + new work permit fee of CAD 155)
Open Work Permit Fees
An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada, making it a flexible option. The fees for an open work permit include:
- Open work permit fee: CAD 100 (additional fee over CAD 155 work permit fee)
- Restoration of status as a worker: CAD 384 (restore status fee of CAD 229 + new work permit fee of CAD 155)
Temporary Foreign Worker Program Fees
This program is designed for employers to hire foreign nationals temporarily. The fees include:
- Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): CAD 1,000
- Work permit fee: CAD 155
International Mobility Program Fees
The International Mobility Program (IMP) allows employers to hire foreign nationals without the need for an LMIA. Fees for this program include:
- Employer compliance fee: CAD 230
- Work permit fee: CAD 155
Additional Costs and Expenses
Apart from the basic work visa fees, there are additional costs that applicants need to consider. These include biometric fees, medical examination fees, and police certificate fees.
Biometric Fees
Biometrics are required for most work visa applications. The biometric fees are:
- Individual applicant: CAD 85
- Family (2 or more people): CAD 170
- Group (3 or more performing artists): CAD 255
Biometrics are a crucial part of the application process as they help in verifying the identity of the applicants. These fees cover the cost of collecting and processing fingerprints and photographs.
Medical Examination Fees
Applicants are required to undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician. The fees for medical examinations vary by country and physician but typically range around:
Medical exam fee: Approximately CAD 100-200
The medical examination ensures that the applicant is in good health and does not pose a public health risk to Canada. It includes a physical exam, blood tests, chest X-rays, and other tests as needed.
Police Certificate Fees
Applicants need to provide police certificates from each country they have lived in for six months or more since the age of 18. The fees for obtaining police certificates vary by country and issuing authority but are generally around:
Police certificate fee: CAD 20-50
Police certificates are used to check the criminal history of applicants. These documents ensure that the applicants do not have any criminal records that might pose a risk to Canadian society.
Proof of Funds
In some cases, applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their families while in Canada. The required amount varies depending on the number of family members. Proof of funds typically includes bank statements, investment statements, and other financial documents.
Translation and Notarization Fees
If your documents are not in English or French, you will need to get them translated and notarized. The costs for these services can vary significantly but are generally around:
- Translation fee: CAD 20-40 per page
- Notarization fee: CAD 10-30 per document
How to Pay Your Canada Work Visa Fees
Paying your Canada work visa fees is a simple process. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website provides detailed instructions on how to pay the fees. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to pay your Canada work visa fees:
- Visit the IRCC Website: Go to the official IRCC website and navigate to the payment section.
- Select the Fee: Choose the type of fee you need to pay (e.g., work permit fee, biometrics fee).
- Provide Payment Details: Enter your payment details, including credit card or debit card information.
- Print the Receipt: After payment, print the receipt as proof of payment. You will need to include this receipt with your visa application.
It’s important to keep your payment receipts as they serve as proof of payment and are required during the submission of your visa application. In some cases, applicants might need to pay additional fees during the application process, so keeping track of all receipts is crucial.
Tips to Save on Canada Work Visa Fees
Applying for a work visa can be expensive, but there are ways to minimize costs and make the process more cost-efficient. Here are some tips to save on Canada work visa fees:
1. Apply Early
Applying for your work visa well in advance can save you money. Late applications might incur additional fees for expedited processing. Early applications also give you ample time to gather all necessary documents and avoid last-minute rushes.
2. Use Accurate Information
Ensure that all information provided in your application is accurate and complete. Incorrect information can lead to delays and additional costs for reapplications. Double-check all details before submission to avoid unnecessary expenses.
3. Bundle Applications
If you are applying with family members or as part of a group, bundling your applications can save on biometric and processing fees. Family and group rates for biometrics are lower than individual rates.
4. Keep Documents Ready
Having all your documents ready and in order can prevent last-minute rush fees and expedite the processing of your application. Organize your paperwork well in advance to ensure a smooth application process.
5. Seek Professional Help
Consider seeking help from immigration consultants like Croyez Immigration, who can guide you through the process and help avoid costly mistakes. While this may incur an additional cost, it can save you money in the long run by preventing errors that could lead to additional fees.
6. Stay Updated
Regularly check the IRCC website for updates on fee changes or new Canada work visa requirements. Staying informed will help you plan your application and budget accordingly.
7. Use Official Resources
Utilize official resources and guides provided by the IRCC. These resources offer accurate and up-to-date information that can help you navigate the application process effectively.
FAQ
What are the fees for an employer-specific work permit in Canada?
The fees for an employer-specific work permit in Canada are CAD 155 per person. For groups of three or more performing artists applying together, the fee is CAD 465.
Are there additional costs associated with Canada work visa applications?
Yes, additional costs include biometric fees, medical examination fees, and police certificate fees. Biometrics cost CAD 85 per individual, medical exams range from CAD 100 to CAD 200, and police certificates generally cost CAD 20-50.
How can I pay the Canada work visa fees?
You can pay the Canada work visa fees online through the IRCC website using a credit or debit card. After payment, print the receipt and include it with your application.
Can I get a refund if my Canada work visa application is rejected?
Typically, visa application fees are non-refundable. However, you may get a refund for certain fees, such as the Right of Permanent Residence fee if your application is denied.
Are there any tips to reduce the costs of a Canada work visa?
Yes, you can reduce costs by applying early, providing accurate information, bundling applications, keeping documents ready, and seeking professional help.
Conclusion
Understanding the costs involved in obtaining a Canada work visa is essential for planning your move to Canada. By being aware of the various fees and additional costs, you can better prepare financially and make the process smoother. Utilizing the tips provided can help you save money and ensure a successful application.
Applying for a work visa can be complex, but with the right information and preparation, you can navigate the process effectively. It is advisable to consult immigration experts at Croyez Immigration for all the support required for the Canada work visa application. Whether you are applying for an employer-specific work permit or an open work permit, knowing the fees and costs will help you plan better and avoid any unexpected expenses.
