How Much Does a Canada Work Permit Cost in 2026? Biometrics & Medical Fees Explained
Planning your move to the Large White North? If you’re applying for a Canada Work Permit in 2026, understanding the financial roadmap is your first step toward success. Beyond the joy of a new work, you need to navigate a specific set of Canada Visa Application Fees set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
From the required IRCC Biometrics Fee to the varying Immigration Medical Exam Cost in Canada, this guide breaks down every dollar you’ll need to fund for your request this year.
2026 Canada Work Permit Fee Breakdown
The Navigating the IRCC fee plan can be complex. In 2026, the Work Permit Processing Fee remains a standard requirement for most applicants simply additional “top-up” fees apply count on your permit type.
Core Application Fees
There are Fee TypeAmount (CAD)Who Pays?Work Permit Fee$155Standard per-person feeOpen Work Permit Holder Fee$100Added for open work permit applicantsIEC Participation Fee$184.75For International Experience Canada applicants Age of Worker Status$401.25Required if your status has invalid.
Pro Tip: If you are an Open Work Licence applicant (such as a PGWP or Spousal Work Permit holder) your total IRCC cost will be $255 ($155 processing + $100 holder fee).2
IRCC Biometrics Fee 2026: Fingerprints & Photos
The Little you have provided biometrics in the last 10 years you will likely receive a Bioscience Instruction Letter (BIL) shortly after state your application. This is a mandatory step for personality verification.
- Individual Applicant: $85 CAD3
- Family Rate: $170 CAD (Supreme fee for 2 or more family members applying together)four
- Group Rate (Performing Artists): $255 CAD (For groups of 3 or more)5
Where to Pay The fee is usually paid online at the time of application. You will then take your BIL to a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to complete the activity. Note that some VACs may charge extra Visa Application Centre (VAC) Service Fees for national touch.
Also Read:Canada LMIA Work Permit Fees Explained: Full Expense Guide for 2026
Immigration Medical Exam (IME) Cost 2026
The Immigration Medical Exam Cost in Canada is one of the few fees not paid directly to the government. Instead you pay an IRCC Approved Sheet Physician.
What determines the price?
Prices vary based on the clinic’s location and the applicant’s age. On average judge to salary.
- –$350 Adults (15+) $250–$350 CAD (See Chest X-ray and Blood Test Cost)
- Children (11-14) $200–$250 CAD
- Children (Under 10): $150–$200 CAD (Usually no X-ray required)
Key Components of the Medical Exam
- Physical Exam: Gross health check by the doctor.
- The Blood & Urine Tests: Screening for specific infectious comfort.
- Chest X-ray: Mandatory for most person over age 11 to check for TB.7
- The Medical Receipt Canada: The digital confirmation the doctor provides which you must transfer to your application.
Important: Check if you need an Direct Medical Exam Canada 2026. Some programs similar the Internationalist Experience Canada (IEC) or certain high-demand sectors need the test before you submit your application.
Additional Costs to Consider
Employer Conformity Fee
If you are applying for an employer-specific (closed) work permit under the Global Mobility Program, your employer must pay a $230 Employer Compliance Fee through the IRCC Employer Portal before you apply.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) & Others
For graduates the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Cost is $255. If you are bridging between permits the Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) Fees also total $255.
Step-by-Step Checklist for 2026 Applicants
- The Determine your Permit Type: Is it Open Closed or IEC?
- Calculate Fees Combine the processing fee open permit fee (if applicable) and biometry.
- Find a Panel Doctor Use the official IRCC website to find an sanctioned doctor in your city.
- Pay Online: Use the IRCC e-payment website to avoid delays.
- Keep Receipts: Save your eMedical receipt and Biometrics payment verification.
Canada Work Permit Biometrics & Medical Cost 2026 (FAQs)
Can I get a payment if my work permit is amalgamated?
Generally the $155 processing fee is non-refundable once the process begins. However, the $100 Open Work Permit Holder fee is often lost if the application is rejected.
Do I need new biometrics if I torrented them 5 years ago?
Biometrics are typically valid for 10 years for ephemeral resident applications.
How long is the medical exam valid?
Your IME results are valid for 12 months from the date of the exam.
Ready to start your Canadian journey?
Ensure your application is “decision-ready” by having your fees and medicals organized early. If you found this guide helpful, share it with a fellow person or leave a comment below with your questions!
Disclaimer
This article is for knowledge and educational purposes only. Readers are advised to confirm details from trusted sources, such as the official IRCC website, before making financial or immigration decisions.