How much is a family visa to Canada?

For families hoping to reunite in Canada, understanding how much is family visa to Canada costs and the required eligibility criteria is crucial. A family visa allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouses, children, parents, or grandparents for permanent residence. Knowing the total cost, documentation, and Canadian family visa requirements helps applicants prepare accurately and avoid processing delays. Since each application involves specific IRCC forms, fees, and timelines, getting the right information in advance ensures a smooth process. This guide outlines the essential details every applicant should be aware of before applying for a family visa to Canada in 2025.

What Is a Family Visa in Canada?

The Family Visa, also known as the Family Sponsorship Program, allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their loved ones to become permanent residents of Canada. This program helps families stay together by enabling sponsored members, such as spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, parents, or grandparents, to live, study, and work in Canada with full legal status.

Sponsors are required to prove that they can financially support their relatives and ensure they do not rely on public assistance. The family visa process involves submitting detailed documentation, meeting specific eligibility criteria, and following Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines. By meeting all requirements and providing accurate information, families can improve their chances of successful approval and experience a smoother transition to life in Canada.

How Much Is a Family Visa to Canada?

The total cost for a family visa to Canada varies depending on the type of sponsorship and the number of applicants. Below is an estimated cost breakdown for 2025:

Visa Category	Government Fees (CAD)	Additional Costs (CAD)	Total Estimated Cost (CAD)
Spousal Sponsorship	$1,205	$300–$500 (biometrics, medicals, courier)	$1,500–$1,700
Dependent Child Sponsorship	$230 per child	$100–$250	$250–$400
Parent or Grandparent Sponsorship	$1,205 per applicant	$300–$600	$1,500–$1,700

The cost of a family visa to Canada depends on the type of sponsorship and the number of family members included in the application. As shown in the table, spousal sponsorship typically costs around CAD 1,500 to 1,700, including government fees and additional expenses such as biometrics, medical exams, and courier charges. 

Dependent child sponsorships are lower, averaging CAD 250 to 400 per child, while parent or grandparent sponsorships can reach CAD 1,700 per applicant due to higher documentation and medical requirements. These estimates help families plan for total expenses, ensuring their applications meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) fee and documentation guidelines efficiently.

Canada Family Visa Requirements (2025 Update)

While applying for a family visa, sponsors and applicants must ensure they meet the latest Canada family visa requirements, as outlined by IRCC. These include:

• Proof of a genuine relationship (marriage certificate or birth certificate)

• Evidence of financial stability from the sponsor

• Sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Canada

• Clean police record and completed medical examination for all applicants

• All supporting documents translated into English or French

• Signed sponsorship agreement confirming financial responsibility

Meeting these visa requirements helps applicants avoid unnecessary delays and increases the chances of successful visa approval.

Processing Time and Stages of the Application

The family visa processing time depends on the visa type and IRCC workload. On average:

Spousal or Common-law Partner Sponsorship (8–12 months)

Processing typically takes 8 to 12 months, depending on the accuracy of documents and IRCC’s workload. Submitting complete forms, proof of relationship, and biometrics early can significantly expedite the approval process.

Dependent Child Sponsorship (6–9 months)

Applications for dependent children are usually processed within 6 to 9 months. Timely submission of birth certificates, medical reports, and required forms ensures faster review and avoids unnecessary delays from IRCC.

Parent or Grandparent Sponsorship (18–24 months)

This category takes 18 to 24 months due to higher document requirements and financial assessments. Ensuring accurate income proof and completing all steps outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada helps streamline the entire review process.

Common Tips to Save Time and Avoid Extra Costs

Following the simple tips ensures that your family visa application is complete, cost-efficient, and processed smoothly.

Review and Organize All Documents Before Submission

Carefully go through every required form, identification, and proof of relationship before submitting your application. Missing or incorrect details are among the most common reasons for delays and refusals. Proper organization ensures a smoother process and minimizes the risk of reapplication or rejection.

Complete Payments and Medical Examinations Early

Paying all necessary fees and completing medical exams as early as possible helps prevent unnecessary hold-ups. Early preparation enables your application to progress more efficiently through each verification stage and ensures that all records are up to date when reviewed by immigration officers.

Seek Guidance from a Licensed Immigration Consultant

Working with an authorized consultant ensures all forms are completed accurately and that you understand every step of the process. Their expertise reduces errors, shortens processing time, and provides peace of mind throughout the entire immigration journey.

Monitor Your Application Through the Online Portal

Regularly check your application status online to stay informed of any updates or requests from immigration authorities. Tracking your file helps you respond promptly, submit additional information when required, and keep the entire process moving efficiently toward approval.

Final Words

Understanding how much is family visa to Canada costs helps you plan financially and avoid delays during your family reunification journey. The cost depends on visa type, number of dependents, and additional requirements like biometrics and medical exams.

Staying updated on Canada family visa requirements, submitting complete documentation, and seeking help from an immigration expert can make a significant difference. For families in Vancouver and across British Columbia, starting with accurate information and professional guidance ensures a faster and stress-free approval process.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the average cost of a family visa to Canada in 2025?

 The total cost usually ranges between $1,500 and $2,000 per applicant, depending on the category and number of dependents.

• What are the basic Canada family visa requirements?

You need proof of relationship, sponsor’s financial stability, police clearance, and a completed medical examination.

• How long does it take to process a family visa for Canada?

Processing times typically range from 8 to 12 months for spousal sponsorships and up to 24 months for parents or grandparents.

• Can I sponsor multiple family members at once?

Yes, you can sponsor your spouse and dependent children together if you meet the financial and eligibility criteria.