Starting December 1, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will implement updated fees for various immigration and temporary resident applications. These changes impact visitors, workers, and students seeking to either enter Canada or extend their stay. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what you need to know about the upcoming adjustments, current fees, and guidance for applicants navigating these changes.

Applications Affected by the Fee Increase

The fee updates will apply to several application categories, including:

• Restoration of Temporary Resident Status: For visitors, workers, and students who wish to regain their legal temporary resident status in Canada.
• Authorization to Return to Canada: For individuals previously asked to leave Canada due to inadmissibility.
• Criminal Rehabilitation Applications: For individuals seeking to overcome inadmissibility due to criminality or serious criminality.
• Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) Applications: For individuals deemed inadmissible but requiring entry to Canada on humanitarian or public policy grounds.

Although IRCC has yet to disclose the exact updated fees, applicants should prepare for changes to these categories and budget accordingly.

Current Application Fees (Before December 1)

To provide context, here are the existing fees for affected applications:

These fees will increase starting December 1, underscoring the importance of submitting applications promptly to avoid higher costs.

Implications of Fee Changes

For Online Applicants

Applications submitted online are received instantly by IRCC, ensuring the old fees apply if submitted before December 1. This method minimizes risk for applicants concerned about timing.

For Paper-Based Applications

Submitting by mail introduces a delay between when the application is sent and when IRCC receives it. If fees increase during this period, IRCC will typically allow the application to proceed if:

1. The old fee was paid in full.
2. The application was complete.
3. The application was mailed before the fee increase took effect.

If additional payment is required, applicants will receive instructions from IRCC on how to pay the difference.

What to Do If Additional Payment is Required

In cases where an applicant has paid the old fee for a paper-based submission but the new fees have come into effect, here’s the process to handle the fee difference:

Step 1: Calculate the Fee Difference

Applicants must determine the gap between the old and new fees. This includes accounting for any family members included in the application.

Step 2: Make the Payment

Use IRCC’s online payment tool, selecting the “Make an additional payment or pay other fees” option. Enter the total difference under “Quantity” and complete the transaction.

Step 3: Obtain and Submit the Receipt

Once payment is completed, applicants will receive a receipt. They must follow IRCC’s instructions to submit the receipt as proof of the additional payment.

Key Insights: Why Are Fees Increasing?

The adjustment reflects Canada’s broader immigration priorities, ensuring that processing costs align with the resources required to manage growing application volumes. In recent years, Canada has seen a significant surge in immigration demand. For example:

• In 2023, Canada issued over 600,000 study permits, the highest ever recorded.
• Temporary work permits under the International Mobility Program increased by 17% compared to 2022.

These trends underline the importance of resource allocation to maintain service standards, which is partly achieved through periodic fee updates.

Preparing for the Changes

With fee updates just around the corner, here are some tips for applicants:

1. Submit Applications Early: Avoid higher costs by submitting before December 1.
2. Stay Updated: Regularly check IRCC’s website for the latest fee details and procedural updates.
3. Consult Professionals: If unsure about application requirements or fees, seek advice from immigration consultants or legal experts.

The December 1 fee update by IRCC highlights Canada’s commitment to improving its immigration processes amid rising demand. By understanding these changes and preparing accordingly, applicants can minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth application process. Stay informed, act promptly, and take advantage of online submission systems to avoid unnecessary delays or additional costs.