Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a significant increase in visa application fees, set to take effect on December 1, 2024. This adjustment is part of a broader strategy to align immigration fees with inflation and operational costs, as mandated by the Service Fees Act.
The upcoming changes will affect various categories of applicants, particularly those seeking restoration of temporary resident status and those applying for criminal rehabilitation.
Details of the Fee Increases
The following fees will see increases starting December 1, 2024:
- Restoration of Temporary Resident Status: This fee applies to individuals who wish to regain their status as visitors, students, or workers in Canada.
- Authorization to Return to Canada: This fee is for individuals previously denied entry and seeking permission to return.
- Criminal Rehabilitation: This fee applies to individuals who are inadmissible due to criminal records.
- Temporary Resident Permit: This permit allows individuals who are otherwise inadmissible to enter Canada for a specific purpose.
Specific Fee Changes
Here are the specific fee adjustments that will be implemented:
Application Type | Current Fee (CAD) | New Fee (CAD) |
Restoration of Temporary Resident Status | $200 | $229.77 |
Authorization to Return to Canada | $400 | $459.55 |
Criminal Rehabilitation (Inadmissible due to criminality) | $200 | $229.77 |
Criminal Rehabilitation (Serious criminality) | $1000 | $1148.87 |
Temporary Resident Permit | $200 | $229.77 |
These increases represent an adjustment in line with inflation rates and operational costs incurred by IRCC, which has been a routine practice since the introduction of biennial fee reviews in 2020.
What does it mean for Applicants
The increase in fees will directly impact those planning to apply for restoration of status or other permits. Applicants are encouraged to prepare for these changes by reviewing their financial readiness and ensuring they submit applications before the new fees take effect.
Moreover, applicants who submit their requests on or after December 1, 2024, will also be eligible for partial refunds if IRCC fails to meet service standards during processing. This provision aims to enhance accountability within the immigration system while ensuring that delays do not unduly burden applicants.
The upcoming increase in visa application fees reflects IRCC’s commitment to maintaining a sustainable immigration system that can effectively manage its operations amidst rising costs.
As the date approaches, prospective applicants should stay informed about these changes and plan accordingly to avoid any disruptions in their immigration processes. The adjustments underscore the importance of timely applications and financial preparedness in navigating Canada’s immigration landscape.
