Applying for Canadian immigration can be a complex process, and sometimes unforeseen circumstances might lead you to consider withdrawing your application or seeking a refund on your fees. This blog post will guide you through the different scenarios where a refund might be possible and the types of fees you can expect to get back.
Understanding Refund Eligibility
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offers refunds on application fees under specific circumstances. Generally, the key factor is when IRCC starts processing your application.
Refunds can be requested online and may take up to eight weeks to be processed. However, if your application has already entered processing, you’ll need to submit a refund request using IRCC’s webform.
Refunds for Refused Applications
Unfortunately, application fees are typically non-refundable once IRCC begins processing your application. This is because resources have already been allocated to assess your case.
However, there are some exceptions:
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)
- Right of Citizenship Fee
- Open Work Permit Fee (for LMIA-exempt workers only)
- Employer Compliance Fee (refunded to the employer)
- International Experience Canada (IEC) Fees (see specific IEC refund guidelines)
Refunds for Withdrawn Applications
Similar to refused applications, you can generally only get a refund if you withdraw your application before IRCC starts processing it. In this case, you can expect a refund for all fees except for the biometrics fee (more on that later).
Application Returned by IRCC
There are three situations where IRCC might return your application, and you’ll receive a full refund:
- Incomplete application: If your application lacks necessary documents.
- Premature application: If you submit your application before a program re-opens.
- Program full: If the immigration program you applied for has reached its quota.
Overpayment of Fees
Made a mistake while paying your application fees online? No worries! You can get a refund for any overpayment as long as it’s not related to the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). IRCC will process your application, confirm the overpayment amount, and reimburse you the difference.
Biometrics Fee Refunds: A Special Case
The biometrics fee, which involves submitting your fingerprints and photographs, is a service fee rather than a processing fee. Therefore, it’s not refundable if your application is refused after submitting biometrics.
However, you can get a biometrics fee refund if:
- Biometrics collection never happened.
- Biometrics were collected in error (e.g., you were exempt from providing them).
Important Resources for Further Information
- IRCC information on how to request a refund:
- Government of Canada information on biometrics fees
Remember: It’s always best to carefully review application requirements and fees before submitting your application. However, if you find yourself needing a refund, understanding the eligibility criteria and available resources will expedite the process.
