Revised Fees Announced by IRCC
Revised Fees Announced by IRCC
Updated Canada Immigration Fees Starting December 1, 2024
Revised Fees Announced by IRCC
Effective December 1, 2024, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced new fee structures for several applications related to temporary residency. The adjustments, ranging from 2.80% to 4.69%, affect various application types, including restoring temporary resident status, applying for temporary permits, and returning to Canada after inadmissibility issues.
Overview of New Fees
| Application Type | Fee Starting December 1 | Previous Fee | Percentage Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restoration of Visitor Status | $239.75 | $229.00 | 4.69% |
| Restoration of Student Status | $389.75 | $379.00 | 2.84% |
| Restoration of Worker Status | $394.75 | $384.00 | 2.80% |
| Authorization to Return to Canada | $479.75 | $459.55 | 4.40% |
| Criminal Rehabilitation (General Offences) | $239.75 | $229.77 | 4.34% |
| Criminal Rehabilitation (Serious Offences) | $1,199.00 | $1,148.87 | 4.36% |
| Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) | $239.75 | $229.77 | 4.34% |
| International Experience Canada (IEC) | $179.75 | $172.00 | 4.51% |
Key Changes and Their Implications
1. Temporary Resident Status Restoration
Temporary residents who lose their status as visitors, students, or workers must apply to restore it. The updated fees reflect increases of 2.80% to 4.69%, depending on the status type.
2. Returning to Canada After Inadmissibility
For those deemed inadmissible and seeking to return to Canada, fees have increased by 4.40%. This adjustment impacts individuals with prior violations or removal orders.
3. Criminal Rehabilitation Applications
Applicants needing criminal rehabilitation due to previous offences or serious crimes face fee increases of over 4%.
4. Temporary Resident Permit (TRP)
The cost of TRP applications, which provide temporary access for inadmissible individuals, has risen by 4.34%.
5. International Experience Canada (IEC)
This program, widely used by young professionals and working holidaymakers, now has fees reflecting a 4.51% increase.
Impact on Applicants
These fee changes represent IRCC’s ongoing efforts to manage increased administrative demands. It’s essential for applicants to:
- Double-check their fee payments to ensure the correct amount is submitted.
- Note that online applications require automatic fee updates, but mailed submissions will require additional steps if incorrect fees are paid.
What to Do if You Paid the Old Fees for a Mailed Application
- Old Fees Paid Before December 1:
- If mailed before December 1, applications will not be rejected.
- Applicants will receive instructions from IRCC to pay the difference between the old and new fees.
- Paying the Difference:
- Use IRCC’s online payment portal under the “Make an additional payment” section.
- Calculate the difference for all family members, if applicable, and upload the receipt according to IRCC’s directions.
Why Fees Were Adjusted
IRCC regularly reviews fees to account for inflation and ensure service efficiency. These changes align with broader strategies to streamline application processing, reduce backlogs, and address evolving immigration demands.
Final Recommendations for Applicants
- Stay informed about fee adjustments to avoid application delays.
- Ensure applications, fees, and supporting documents are accurate and up-to-date.
- Seek professional advice if you’re uncertain about any aspect of the process.
