If you’re planning to move to Canada with your family in 2025, there are several Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that do not charge application fees, helping reduce the overall cost of immigration. These programs allow Canadian provinces and territories to nominate skilled workers based on local labor market needs, offering a pathway to permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
While some provinces charge application fees as high as $2,000 CAD, others continue to offer streams that are free to apply for, making the immigration process more accessible for families.
In Alberta, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program has no application fee and includes streams like the Alberta Opportunity Stream, Rural Renewal Stream, and Alberta Express Entry. These are employer-driven and allow family members to be included in the permanent residence application.
Nova Scotia offers several free-to-apply options under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program. These include Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry, Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry, Occupations in Demand, and Labour Market Priorities. The province is particularly welcoming to healthcare workers, educators, and early-career professionals.
Newfoundland and Labrador also has no fee for its Skilled Worker, Priority Skills NL, and International Graduate streams. The province is actively encouraging applications from tech workers and healthcare professionals.
The Yukon Nominee Program is free to apply and includes Yukon Express Entry, Skilled Worker, Critical Impact Worker, and a new pilot under the Yukon Community Program for 2025. This program works well for applicants who have job offers in the Yukon.
The Northwest Territories Nominee Program does not charge an application fee. It includes NWT Express Entry, Skilled Worker, and Entry-Level/Semi-Skilled Occupations streams. Applications are typically submitted by employers on behalf of nominees.
These fee-free programs can be especially beneficial for families, as savings on application costs can be redirected toward other essential immigration expenses, including medical exams, proof of settlement funds, travel, and post-arrival costs such as housing and transportation.
Compared to provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island—where application fees range from $250 to $2,000—these no-fee options provide a more affordable route to permanent residency.
For families planning to immigrate in 2025, exploring these cost-effective PNP options offers both a financial advantage and a clear path to starting a new life in Canada. Preparing by researching provincial requirements, securing job offers or employer support, and organizing the necessary documents and settlement funds can help ensure a smooth application process.
