Two principal cases mean two sets of credential evidence, possibly two evaluations or translations, and any applicable government fees twice. A dependent application carries its own costs, which differ by nationality and route. Confirm current fee amounts from official sources rather than estimates.
Price the evidence, not just the filing
Request a budget for each principal’s actual preparation: missing transcripts, translations, any required credential evaluation and employer documentation. The workloads need not be identical, so two cases do not necessarily double a quoted price. Compare that combined scope with the principal-plus-dependent route, including later work-authorization steps if relevant.
Government fees vary by route and are published in the USCIS fee schedule. Paying for one service does not guarantee professional authorization, TN eligibility or a government decision. Decide whether a Canadian will apply at a port of entry or through the employer’s Form I-129, since the procedure determines which official charges may arise. Sequence the review by fixing duties before ordering evaluations or translations. Obtain a defined scope rather than purchasing an unspecified package.