What are the typical costs and application processes for an Indian student to move to Canada for studies, work, or permanent residency via Express Entry?
Studying in Canada typically costs CAD 15,000 to 40,000 a year in tuition plus about CAD 23,000 in required living funds. A work permit application costs CAD 155, and Express Entry permanent residency costs about CAD 1,590 per applicant, on top of language tests, medical exams, and credential assessments.
Canada offers three distinct routes, studying, working directly, or applying through Express Entry, and each one has its own costs and requirements that are worth comparing before you choose a path.
Costs and Requirements by Pathway
| Pathway | Main Cost | Main Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Study permit | CAD 15,000 to 40,000 tuition plus about CAD 23,000 living funds | Acceptance letter from a DLI, proof of funds |
| Work permit | CAD 155 application fee | Job offer, LMIA where required |
| Express Entry PR | About CAD 1,590 per principal applicant | Competitive CRS score, language test, ECA |
How the Three Routes Typically Connect
- Study first: a Canadian degree can lead to a post-graduation work permit if your programme is eligible.
- Gain Canadian work experience: this experience improves your Express Entry score through the Canadian Experience Class.
- Apply through Express Entry: a competitive CRS score, not just eligibility, is what earns an invitation to apply.
My Advice
In my experience, students plan the study cost carefully but underestimate the Express Entry stage, where eligibility does not guarantee an invitation. Check your post-graduation work permit eligibility before choosing a programme, since that single decision shapes your entire path to permanent residency.
Got a budget of 40 to 50 lakhs? See what Canada costs.
Full tuition and living breakdown, plus universities that fit your number.
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