Canada to raise permanent residency fees by 12% amid increasing immigration numbers

Canada is set to increase permanent residency fees by approximately 12% across key immigration programs, affecting individuals aspiring to become Canadian permanent residents. The fee adjustments, scheduled to take effect from April 30 and lasting until March 2026, aim to align with inflation rates.

Key Points:

Fee hikes: The ‘right of permanent residence fee’ will rise from CAD 515 to CAD 575, reflecting a 12% increase. This fee, payable upon application for permanent residence, excludes dependent children. Additionally, application fees for various immigration programs, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program and Provincial Nominee Program, will increase from CAD 850 to CAD 950.

Impact on Applicants: The fee adjustments will affect individuals applying for permanent residency through different immigration streams, potentially impacting their financial planning and decision-making processes.

Immigration trends: India remains the top source country for new permanent residents in Canada, with 27% of new admissions in 2022 originating from India. Immigration experts suggest strained relations between India and China may have influenced application trends, with fewer applications from India observed.

Family reunification program: Fees under the family reunification program, covering spouses/partners, children, parents, grandparents, and other relatives, will also increase. The sponsorship fee will rise from CAD 75 to CAD 85, while application fees for the principal applicant will increase from CAD 490 to CAD 545.

Government targets: Canada has unveiled its immigration target levels, aiming to admit 4.85 lakh new permanent residents in 2024 and 5 lakh in 2025. Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasized plans to expand the immigration levels plan to include both temporary and permanent resident arrivals.

The fee adjustments mark an effort by Canada to manage increasing immigration numbers while ensuring the sustainability of its immigration system. Aspiring permanent residents and applicants under various immigration programs will need to factor in the increased fees when planning their immigration journey to Canada.