How Much Is a Working Holiday Visa To Canada?

Canada has become one of the most popular destinations for young travelers who want to combine adventure with practical experience. Through the International Experience Canada (IEC) Working Holiday visa, you can work, travel, and immerse yourself in Canadian life for up to two years (depending on your country of origin).

But before you start dreaming about hiking in Banff or sipping coffee in Montreal cafés, you probably have a very practical question: how much does it actually cost to get a Working Holiday visa for Canada?

The answer isn’t always straightforward, because the cost depends on a mix of application fees, biometric fees, health insurance, flights, and the proof of funds you need to show. In this post, we’ll break down all the main costs so you know exactly what to expect and how to budget.

The Core Costs of a Working Holiday Visa to Canada

Here are the main fees that apply to almost everyone applying for the IEC Working Holiday program:

1. Government Application Fees

• IEC Participation Fee: CAD $172

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  Open Work Permit Holder Fee: CAD $100

That means you’ll pay at least CAD $272 directly to the Government of Canada just to apply.

2. Biometrics Fee

Most applicants also need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo).

• Biometrics Fee: CAD $85

This brings the minimum total visa cost to around CAD $357.

3. Proof of Funds

This isn’t money you pay to the government, but you do need to show that you have at least CAD $2,500 in savings when you arrive in Canada. This is to prove you can support yourself before finding a job.

4. Health Insurance

You’re required to have health insurance that covers you for your entire stay. Costs vary widely depending on coverage and duration, but expect:

• Approx. CAD $400 – $1,200 per year

5. Other Possible Costs

• Flights to Canada: Depending on where you’re coming from, flights can cost anywhere between CAD $500 – $1,500.

• Police Certificates: Some applicants need a police certificate from their home country or countries they’ve lived in. These typically cost CAD $20 – $100 each.

• Medical Exam (if required): Around CAD $200 – $400, depending on location.

Realistic Budget for Your Working Holiday Visa

So, if you add everything up, here’s what you’re realistically looking at for your Working Holiday visa to Canada:

• Government + biometrics fees: ~CAD $357

• Health insurance (1 year): ~CAD $700 (average)

• Proof of funds required: CAD $2,500

• Flights, certificates, and extras: ~CAD $800 (estimate)

That means you should plan for at least CAD $4,300 – $5,000 in total before you head to Canada.

Why These Costs Matter Now

Travel has always required some planning, but post-pandemic, immigration rules and travel costs are being more carefully checked than ever. Airlines won’t let you board without proof of funds or valid documents, and Canadian border officers will expect to see health insurance paperwork. Knowing these costs in advance avoids last-minute stress and, more importantly, keeps you from being denied entry.

FAQs

Do I have to pay all the fees upfront?

Yes. The government application and biometrics fees must be paid when you submit your application. Other costs, like health insurance or flights, come later but still before you arrive.

Can I work any job in Canada with a Working Holiday visa?

Yes. The work permit is “open,” meaning you can work for almost any employer in Canada (with some exceptions in industries like adult entertainment).

What happens if I don’t buy health insurance?

Technically, you won’t be allowed to activate your visa at the border. Officers may even shorten your work permit to match the duration of your insurance. It’s not worth the risk—get proper coverage.

Is the proof of funds really checked?

Yes. Officers can ask to see a recent bank statement. Make sure the funds are in your name and accessible (not locked away in investments).

Can TRAVUL help with this process?

Absolutely. At TRAVUL.ORG, we’re building a platform that takes the stress out of planning trips like this. From visa guidance and financial planning tools (savings trackers, loan options) to AI-powered trip planning, we want to make sure you can focus on your Canadian adventure instead of worrying about paperwork and costs.

Final Thoughts

A Working Holiday visa for Canada isn’t free, but for most travelers, the experience is more than worth the investment. Between application fees, proof of funds, insurance, and travel costs, you’ll want to budget around CAD $4,300 – $5,000 to be on the safe side.

Think of it less as an expense and more as a gateway to a life-changing experience—working abroad, exploring Canada’s stunning landscapes, and building memories that will last a lifetime.

At TRAVUL.ORG, our mission is to make this journey easier by giving you everything—visa support, travel financing, and smart planning tools—in one place.

So, here’s a question for you: if money and logistics weren’t a worry, what’s the first Canadian city you’d want to land in for your Working Holiday?