Permanent Residency (PR) is a valuable immigration status that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in another country indefinitely without becoming a citizen. While the process varies widely across the globe, one key factor that affects applicants everywhere is cost. From application fees to legal services and settlement funds, the total expense of securing PR can range from affordable to extremely costly, depending on the country.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs of applying for PR in several popular immigration destinations:
1. Canada
Canada is known for its immigrant-friendly policies and transparent immigration pathways such as Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Estimated Costs:
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Government Fees:
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Principal applicant: CAD 1,365
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Spouse: CAD 1,365
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Child: CAD 230 per child
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Language Test (IELTS): CAD 300
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Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): CAD 200–300
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Medical Examination: CAD 200–500
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Police Clearance: Varies by country
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Settlement Funds (Proof):
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For a single person: approx. CAD 13,000
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For a family of four: approx. CAD 25,000
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Legal/Consultant Fees (optional): CAD 2,000–5,000
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
2. Australia
Australia offers PR through skilled migration routes, family sponsorship, and investment programs.
Estimated Costs:
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Government Fees:
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Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): AUD 4,640 (main applicant)
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Additional adult: AUD 2,320
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Child: AUD 1,160
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English Test (IELTS/PTE): AUD 300–400
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Medical Exam: AUD 300–500
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Police Check: AUD 100
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Proof of Funds: Generally not required but may be advisable
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Legal/Agent Fees (optional): AUD 3,000–8,000
3. United States (Green Card through Employment)
The U.S. PR process is typically long and can be expensive, especially when employer sponsorship or legal representation is involved.
Estimated Costs:
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USCIS Filing Fees:
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I-140: USD 700
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I-485 Adjustment of Status: USD 1,225 (adult)
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Biometrics: USD 85 (if applicable)
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Medical Exam: USD 200–500
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Attorney Fees: USD 3,000–10,000+ (depending on complexity)
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Visa Bulletin Delays: May incur extra legal fees during waiting periods
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
4. United Kingdom
The UK offers various PR routes (called Indefinite Leave to Remain – ILR), typically after five years of legal residence.
Estimated Costs:
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ILR Application Fee: GBP 2,885 per person
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Immigration Health Surcharge (if applicable): GBP 624/year
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English Test (if required): GBP 150
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Life in the UK Test: GBP 50
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Legal Fees (optional): GBP 1,500–3,000
5. New Zealand
PR in New Zealand is available through skilled migration, family, and investment categories.
Estimated Costs:
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Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa: NZD 4,290
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Medical and X-rays: NZD 300–500
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Police Certificates: NZD 100
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English Test (if needed): NZD 300
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Settlement Funds: Generally required, amount varies
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Legal Fees (optional): NZD 2,000–5,000
6. Germany
Germany doesn’t offer PR immediately but allows skilled workers to apply for Permanent Residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis) after 33 months (or 21 months with good language skills).
Estimated Costs:
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Residence Permit Fee: EUR 100–150
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Permanent Residence Fee: EUR 135–250
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Language Test (B1/B2): EUR 150–300
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Legal Fees (optional): EUR 500–2,000
7. Panama (Friendly Nations Visa)
A popular choice for retirees and remote workers, Panama’s PR process is quick and affordable for eligible nationalities.
Estimated Costs:
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Government Fees: USD 1,050
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Legal Fees: USD 2,000–5,000
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Real Estate Investment (optional route): Minimum USD 200,000
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Document Authentication: USD 300–800
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Medical Certificate: USD 100–200
If you need more explanation or more information, you can book a consultation and speak to Happy Face
8. Portugal (Golden Visa & D7 Visa)
Portugal’s Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program, while the D7 is a low-cost option for passive income earners.
Estimated Costs:
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Golden Visa Investment: Minimum EUR 250,000 to 500,000
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D7 Visa Proof of Income: EUR 820+/month (plus for dependents)
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Application Fees: EUR 500–800 per person
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Legal Fees: EUR 3,000–10,000+
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Medical/Police Docs: EUR 200–500
The cost of applying for PR varies not just by country but also by visa category and whether or not you use professional assistance. Before applying, it’s important to consider both the upfront costs and long-term financial obligations involved in each country’s residency pathway.
