Canada remains one of the top destinations for Indian professionals seeking global career opportunities. With thousands of job openings, high salaries, and a stable immigration system, the demand for a Canada Work Visa is rising every year. One of the most important questions applicants ask is:

“How much does a Canada Work Permit cost for Indians?”

This detailed guide explains visa fees, biometrics, LMIA, medical costs, processing time, and all related expenses — with short explanations included for easy understanding.

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Types of Canada Work Visas for Indians

Canada offers two main types of work permits for Indians. One is the Employer-Specific Work Permit, which requires a job offer and sometimes an LMIA. The second is the Open Work Permit, which allows you to work for any employer in Canada. Choosing the right type depends on your job offer and eligibility.

  1. Employer-Specific Work Permit

Issued only when you have a job offer from a Canadian employer. Often requires LMIA.

  1. Open Work Permit

Allows you to work for any employer in Canada. Common categories include SOWP and PGWP.

Canada Work Visa Cost for Indians (2026 Fees)

The total cost of a Canada Work Visa depends on the type of permit you apply for. You must pay visa fees, biometric charges, and other supporting document expenses. These fees help IRCC process your application securely and efficiently.

Category Fee (CAD) Fee (INR approx.)
Work Permit $155 ₹9,500
Work Permit (Group of 3+) $465 ₹28,500
Open Work Permit Fee $100 ₹6,200

Biometrics Fee

Biometrics include fingerprints and a digital photo, required for security and identity verification. Every Indian applicant must complete biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). This step is mandatory and adds to the total visa cost.

Category Fee (CAD) Fee (INR)
Biometrics (per person) $85 ₹5,300
Biometrics (family) $170 ₹10,600

LMIA Fee (Paid by Employer Only)

For most employer-based work permits, the employer must apply for an LMIA. This confirms that no Canadian worker is available for the job. LMIA fees are paid strictly by the employer — not the candidate.

Type Fee (CAD) INR
LMIA Application Fee $1,000 ₹62,000

Medical Examination Cost

A medical exam ensures you meet Canada’s health standards. You must complete it through an IRCC-approved panel physician. Costs vary by clinic but are mandatory for all Indian applicants.

Cost: ₹5,000 – ₹8,000 per person

Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

The PCC proves you have no criminal background. It is issued by the Passport Seva office in India and is a required document for all applicants. It helps Canada assess security and admissibility.

Cost: ₹500 – ₹1,000

Document Translation & Notarization

If your documents are in a regional language, they must be translated into English or French. Notarization may also be needed for authenticity. These small additional costs help avoid application delays.

Cost: ₹500 – ₹2,000 per document

Total Estimated Cost of a Canada Work Visa for Indians

When all charges are combined—visa fees, biometrics, medicals, PCC, and document notarization—your total cost becomes easy to calculate. This helps you plan your budget before applying.

Expense Category Approx. Cost (INR)
Work Permit Fee ₹9,500
Biometrics ₹5,300
Medical Test ₹5,000 – ₹8,000
PCC ₹500 – ₹1,000
Notarization ₹1,000 – ₹4,000
Total (Individual) ₹21,300 – ₹27,800

LMIA is paid by employer separately.

Canada Work Visa Processing Time (2026)

Processing times depend on your permit type and IRCC workload. Work permits applied from India generally take 8–12 weeks. Spousal and LMIA-based applications may take longer due to verification requirements.

Type Processing Time
Work Permit (from India) 8–12 weeks
LMIA-based Work Permit 12–16 weeks
Spousal Open Work Permit 6–9 months

Eligibility Requirements for a Canada Work Visa

To qualify for a Canada Work Visa, you must meet certain eligibility criteria such as having a valid job offer, proof of experience, medical clearance, and sufficient funds. Meeting these requirements ensures a smoother and stronger application.

You need:

  • Valid job offer (if required)
  • Experience & education proof
  • PCC & Medical report
  • Financial proof
  • Valid passport
  • LMIA approval (if required)

How to Apply for a Canada Work Visa (Step-by-Step)

Applying for a Canada Work Visa involves several steps—from securing a job offer to submitting your application online. Following the process carefully helps increase your chances of approval.

Steps:

  1. Get a job offer (if needed).
  2. Employer applies for LMIA (if applicable).
  3. Gather documents & submit application online.
  4. Pay visa fees & give biometrics.
  5. Wait for processing & final decision.
  6. Travel to Canada and receive permit at the border.

Tips to Improve Your Visa Approval Chances

Strong documentation, accurate details, and proper preparation significantly improve your chances of approval. Avoiding mistakes and submitting complete information is key to a successful application.

Tips:

  • Submit clear & complete documents
  • Ensure LMIA/job offer is genuine
  • Show sufficient funds
  • Avoid inconsistencies in information
  • Take guidance from experienced consultants

Conclusion

A Canada Work Visa offers excellent career growth, high earnings, and long-term settlement opportunities for Indian professionals. Understanding the full cost, processing time, and eligibility helps you apply confidently and avoid unexpected delays or expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the total cost of a Canada Work Visa for Indians?

The total cost of a Canada Work Visa for Indians generally ranges between ₹21,000 to ₹28,000, depending on your medical exam, biometrics, and document verification. The visa fee itself is ₹9,500, and biometrics add around ₹5,300. Medical tests and PCC contribute to the remaining cost. LMIA fees are paid by the employer, not the applicant.

2. How much is the LMIA fee for Canada Work Permit?

The LMIA fee is $1,000 CAD, which is approximately ₹62,000 in India. This fee is paid strictly by the employer and applicants are not required to pay it. LMIA confirms that no Canadian worker is available for the job. A positive LMIA significantly increases the chances of work permit approval.

3. Is biometrics mandatory for a Canada Work Visa from India?

Yes, biometrics are mandatory for all Indian applicants applying for a Canada Work Visa. It includes fingerprints and a photograph taken at a Visa Application Centre. The biometrics cost is $85 CAD per person. This step helps Canada verify your identity and speeds up future travel processes.

4. How long does it take to get a Canada Work Visa from India?

The processing time for a Canada Work Visa from India usually ranges from 8–12 weeks. However, LMIA-based applications can take up to 12–16 weeks, depending on employer and IRCC processing times. Spousal Open Work Permits may take longer due to background and relationship checks.

5. Do I need a medical exam for a Canada Work Permit?

Yes, a medical exam is required for most Indian applicants before receiving a work permit. The exam must be conducted by an IRCC-approved panel physician in India. The cost usually ranges from ₹5,000 to ₹8,000, depending on the clinic. A clear medical report is essential to complete your application.

Start your Canada Work Visa journey with expert guidance—contact Apical Immigration Experts today!