Freshness Alert: As of January 8, 2026, IRCC has adjusted several service fees, including a 2.7% increase on restoration and inadmissibility documents. This guide reflects the most current pricing for the 2026 fiscal year. Are you thinking about moving to Canada for work? It is a big step. Many people want to work in Canada because it has good jobs and a nice life. But first, you need to know the costs. This is very important for the Canada Work Visa Cost 2026. Most work visas need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This is under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) in 2026. The LMIA shows that no Canadian can do the job. So, the employer can hire a foreign worker.
This guide explains all the money you need. It is for employers who want workers and for workers who want jobs. We use simple words. We give a clear breakdown of all costs.
The Core Fees: LMIA and Work Permit Essentials
The main part of an employer-specific work visa is the LMIA. The employer gets this from Service Canada or ESDC. It proves the job is needed.
- The LMIA Processing Fee 2026 (Employer-Paid) The LMIA Processing Fee 2026 is still $1,000 CAD for each job position. The employer pays this fee. It does not change in 2026. Important rule: Canadian law says employers cannot ask workers to pay this $1,000 fee. They cannot make the worker give money back for it. This is called “illegal recovery of LMIA fees.” If an employer or agent asks you to pay this, it is a big warning sign. It may be a scam. Always be careful.
- The Work Permit Fee 2026 (Worker-Paid) After the LMIA is approved, the worker applies for the work permit from IRCC. Standard Work Permit Fee 2026: $155 CAD. This is for most employer-specific permits. Open Work Permit Holder Fee: $100 CAD. This makes the total $255 CAD. It is for spouses or some special cases.
These are the basic government fees for the permit.
Step-by-Step Financial Breakdown
Moving to Canada costs more than just one fee. Here is the order of costs for a normal 2026 applicant.
- Recruitment & Advertising (Employer) Before the employer applies for LMIA, they must advertise the job. They do this for at least four weeks. They use the Job Bank, which is free. But many use other sites like LinkedIn or Indeed. These can cost $200 to $600 CAD. The employer pays for all advertising and recruitment.
- The LMIA Filing The employer sends the LMIA application. They pay the $1,000 CAD fee. For high-wage jobs, the wage must be at least the median wage plus 20% in some 2026 streams. The employer must also give a Transition Plan. This plan shows how they will hire Canadians later.
- Biometrics & Visa Filing When the LMIA is positive, the worker applies to IRCC. Biometrics Fee 2026: $85 CAD for one person. $170 CAD for a family. Work Permit Fee: $155 CAD (as above). The worker pays these.
- Medicals and Police Clearances The worker needs a medical exam from a Panel Physician. This costs $100 to $300 CAD. It depends on the country. Police clearance or certificate is also needed. The cost is usually $20 to $100 CAD. It changes by country.
These are extra costs for the worker.
2026 Regional Updates: The 6% Rule
The place of the job matters a lot in 2026. Canada has a rule for low-wage jobs. If the unemployment rate in a Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) is 6% or higher, they may not process low-wage LMIAs. In early 2026, places like Vancouver and Toronto are checked closely. If unemployment is over 6%, low-wage LMIAs may be refused. Then, employers must use high-wage rules or other programs. This can make costs higher.
This rule helps protect Canadian jobs in areas with many unemployed people.
Supporting & Hidden Expenses: A Realistic Budget
There are more costs in 2026. Plan for them so you do not have money problems later.
Here are some extra fees:
- Employer Compliance Fee: $230 CAD. This is for LMIA-exempt cases. Employer pays.
- Restoration of Worker Status Fee: $246.25 CAD. Worker pays if status expires.
- IEC 2026 Fee: $184.75 CAD. For young professionals. Worker pays.
- Temporary Resident Permit (TRP): $246.25 CAD. For inadmissibility cases. Worker pays.
- RPRF (Right of Permanent Residence Fee): $575 CAD. For some paths to permanent residence. Worker pays.
Third-Party Representative Fees
Many people use a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or a lawyer. This helps with hard cases. In 2026, these fees for LMIA-based work permits are usually $2,500 to $5,500 CAD.
It is not required. But it gives expert help. They know the rules well.
Summary Table: What is the Total Cost?
For one skilled worker in the TFWP 2026, the government fees are about $1,240 CAD total. The employer pays $1,000 for LMIA. The worker pays $155 for the permit plus $85 for biometrics. But add other things. The worker needs $600 to $900 CAD for medicals, police clearance, biometrics, and maybe translations or travel to doctors.
Employer costs are higher with advertising and possible consultant fees. This is only government and basic costs. Real total can be more with flights, housing, or other needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I pay the $1,000 LMIA fee if my employer won’t?
No. The law says the employer must pay it. Asking the worker to pay is illegal.
What is the “Median Wage + 20%” rule?
In late 2025 and 2026, some high-wage jobs need the wage to be 20% above the provincial median. This gives better processing. Check the current wage for your job code (NOC).
What if I lose my job?
You may need to restore your status. This costs $246.25 CAD if your permit expires before a new LMIA.
Final Thoughts & CTA
Getting a Canada Work Visa in 2026 needs good money planning. Know the IRCC rules. Make sure your employer knows they pay the $1,000 LMIA fee. You need to pay your $155 work permit fee and biometrics.
Plan your budget well. This helps avoid problems. Ready to start your life in Canada? Comment below if you have questions about NOC codes or wages in your area!
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Disclaimer: This article is for information and education only. Always check official sites like IRCC or ESDC for the latest details before you spend money or make decisions.