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IRCC implements fee increases for immigration applications starting December 2024

On December 1, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) implemented new fee structures across a range of immigration applications. This marks a significant adjustment to application fees, reflecting IRCC’s periodic reviews aimed at aligning costs with operational demands and enhancing the efficiency of Canada’s immigration system.

This change affects various types of applications, from restoring immigration statuses to obtaining temporary resident permits. Understanding these updated fees and their implications is essential for anyone navigating Canada’s immigration processes.

Overview of the fee changes

Below is a comparison of the new fees with the previous rates for common application types:

Authorization to return to Canada:

The fee has increased from $459.55 to $479.75, representing a modest adjustment aimed at covering administrative costs for processing these applications.

Restoration of immigration status:

For students, the fee increased from $379.00 to $389.75.

Workers will pay $394.75, an increase from $384.00.

Visitors now face a fee of $239.75, up from $229.00.

Temporary Resident Permit (TRP):

The fee rose to $239.75, up from $229.77.

International Experience Canada (IEC):

Participants in this program will now pay $179.75, compared to the previous $172.00.

Inadmissibility due to criminality:

The fee rose from $229.77 to $239.75 for minor criminal offenses, while serious criminal inadmissibility applications saw an increase from $1,148.87 to $1,199.00.

Why has the fee increased?

IRCC reviews its fee structure periodically to ensure alignment with inflation, operational costs, and the growing demands on the immigration system. These adjustments aim to provide sufficient resources to maintain service quality while supporting system innovations and capacity building.

With a record number of applications in recent years, processing times and the complexity of cases have increased, requiring more robust infrastructure. The updated fees reflect an effort to sustain these growing operational requirements.

For applicants who submitted their applications before December 1, 2024:

Online applications:

If a complete online application was submitted before the fee adjustment, the applicant will not need to pay the increased amount. IRCC processes online applications in real-time, ensuring immediate payment confirmation.

Paper applications:

Applicants who mailed in their paper applications before the fee increase may need to pay the difference. IRCC typically accepts the original payment if:

• The old fee was paid in full.
• The application was complete and sent before the fee adjustment date.

In cases where additional payment is required, IRCC will notify the applicant with instructions on submitting the fee difference. This process involves logging into an IRCC account, calculating the difference, and completing the payment using the designated online payment tool.

Why is Canada a preferred destination?

Canada continues to be a top destination for those seeking to live, study, or work, thanks to its thriving economy, excellent quality of life, and inclusive society. In 2023, Canada welcomed over 465,000 new permanent residents, a testament to its status as a global leader in immigration. With a multicultural population where one in four residents is foreign-born, Canada is celebrated for its commitment to diversity and equality.

For international students, Canada offers prestigious universities such as the University of Toronto and McGill University, which are globally ranked. In 2022 alone, over 807,000 international students held valid study permits, reflecting the country’s growing appeal as a hub for world-class education. Lower tuition costs compared to the U.S. and access to work opportunities through post-graduate work permits make Canada especially attractive.

Canada’s job market also draws professionals, with unemployment rates hovering near historical lows of 5.6% as of late 2024. Industries such as technology, healthcare, and construction continue to expand, offering skilled workers abundant opportunities. Beyond career prospects, Canada provides universal healthcare, public education, and a high standard of living, consistently ranking in the top 10 on the Human Development Index.

These factors, coupled with its breathtaking landscapes and safety, make Canada a preferred choice for millions worldwide.

Conclusion

The December 2024 fee adjustments by IRCC represent a strategic move to support the sustainability and efficiency of Canada’s immigration system. While the increases may pose financial challenges for some applicants, they reflect the government’s commitment to maintaining high service standards amidst increasing demands.

For those navigating Canada’s immigration pathways, staying informed about these changes and planning accordingly will be key to ensuring a smooth and successful application process. As Canada continues to welcome newcomers, these measures aim to strengthen its reputation as a destination for opportunity and growth.

If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit or Migrate to Canada, talk to I Can Help Immigration Services, at

+1 778 239 7861 or +1 647 453 7660 with RCIC # R413239, Canada’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company to get the best help you need.