Aspiring Canadian permanent residents (PR) be advised: the cost of your dream just went up a notch. Effective April 30, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) implemented an increase in several PR application fees.
This update ties into Canada’s Immigrant and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) and reflects changes in the Consumer Price Index.
The most significant change is a jump in the “Right of Permanent Residence Fee” from CAD 515 to CAD 575 for both the principal applicant and their accompanying spouse or common-law partner. Additionally, Canada has raised the processing fees for the various immigration programs, including the Federal Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, Atlantic Immigration Class, and several economic pilots (Rural, Agri-Food), from CAD 850 to CAD 950 for the principal applicant and their accompanying spouse or common-law partner. The fee for accompanying a dependent child has also been raised from CAD 230 to CAD 260.
It’s important to note that this fee hike only applies to applications submitted on or after April 30, 2024. For a complete breakdown of the new fee structure, be sure to visit the IRCC website.
What This Means for Applicants:
- If you submit your PR application before April 30, 2024, you will not be subject to the new fees.
- The fee increase will be marked for applicants applying between April 2024 and March 2026.
Is this a long-term trend?
There’s a good chance these adjustments won’t be the last. Fee increases are likely to be linked to inflation and may occur periodically. Therefore, starting your PR application sooner could be a strategic move to avoid potentially steeper costs down the road.
Feeling Lost? Get Help!
While this news is important, navigating the intricacies of Canadian immigration can be daunting. Consider seeking guidance from an immigration consultant for a smooth and informed process. To ensure a smooth and informed journey, consider consulting with a registered immigration consultant like CanApprove. We can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.