New Canada Immigration Fee Hikes Effective December 1, 2024

Starting December 1, 2024, several key immigration application fees in Canada will see increases. This change affects individuals seeking to restore temporary resident status, apply for temporary resident permits, or those seeking criminal rehabilitation among other categories. Applicants must be prepared for these changes to avoid delays and additional payments.

Key Takeaways

• Fee Increases: Applications for temporary resident status restoration, criminal rehabilitation, and temporary resident permits will see increases ranging from 2.8% to 4.7%.
• Avoid Additional Costs: Applicants are encouraged to submit applications before December 1 to avoid paying the higher fees.
• Online Submissions: Online applications are processed instantly, ensuring that applicants pay the correct fees, while mailed applications may require additional payment if submitted before December 1 but received afterward.

Context

Canada’s immigration fees have periodically increased to account for inflation, rising administrative costs, and to streamline processing. These fee increases reflect a broader trend of adjusting immigration services to meet the growing demand and operational costs. The new rates apply to specific categories including temporary resident status restoration, criminal rehabilitation, and more.

Overview of Fee Changes

The updated immigration fees affect several types of applications, including:

• Restoration of Temporary Resident Status: Increases of up to 4.7% for visitors, students, and workers who lose their status and need to restore it.
• Criminal Rehabilitation: The cost for individuals seeking to overcome criminal inadmissibility has risen by 4%.
• Temporary Resident Permits (TRP): Applications for TRPs, which are granted to inadmissible individuals, will now see a fee increase of 4.34%.

These increases are part of a broader strategy by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to maintain service quality amidst rising operational costs

Several immigration application fees will rise, affecting restoration of status, criminal rehabilitation, and temporary permits. These increases reflect rising operational demands.

Specific Fee Adjustments

The following are the detailed changes for specific application categories:

• Restoration of Visitor Status: From CAD 229 to CAD 235 (a 2.8% increase).
• Restoration of Worker and Student Status: Increased by up to 4.69% depending on the category.
• Authorization to Return to Canada: This fee will rise by 4.4%, affecting those seeking re-entry after removal orders or violations.
• Serious Criminality: Criminal rehabilitation for serious offenses now costs CAD 1,148.87, a 4.36% increase

The most notable changes are the increases in restoration of status and criminal rehabilitation applications, with adjustments ranging from 2.8% to 4.7%.

Payment Procedures and Avoiding Delays

To avoid delays and additional fees, applicants are advised to:

• Submit Applications Early: Complete applications should be submitted before December 1 to lock in the lower fees.
• Use Online Applications: Online submissions are immediately processed, ensuring applicants pay the correct amount.
• Mail-in Applications: Applicants mailing their applications before December 1 should track their submission. If the IRCC receives the application after the fee increase, additional payments will be required

Early submission and online applications are the best ways to avoid paying higher fees. Mail-in applications may face delays or require additional payments if received after the new fees take effect.

Implications for Applicants

These fee hikes could have significant financial implications for individuals applying for restoration of status, re-entry authorization, or criminal rehabilitation. Applicants should calculate the total cost including any additional fees for family members. For those already in the process, IRCC will provide instructions on paying the fee difference if applications are submitted with the old rates

Applicants must be mindful of the new fees and act promptly to avoid paying the increased rates.

Strategic Advice for Immigration Attorneys

Immigration attorneys should advise clients to:

• Submit applications early to avoid higher fees.
• Double-check payment amounts to ensure accuracy and prevent delays.
• Consult IRCC’s fee update regularly to stay informed of any further changes.

For attorneys, staying proactive and ensuring clients are aware of the new fees can improve efficiency and client satisfaction

Attorneys should guide clients through the new fee structure and encourage early application submission to avoid delays or additional payments.

Conclusion

The new immigration fee increases, effective December 1, 2024, highlight the evolving costs associated with Canada's immigration processes. Applicants must ensure their submissions are timely and accurate to avoid any additional financial burden. Immigration attorneys play a key role in guiding clients through these changes and ensuring a smooth process.

FAQ'S

When do the new immigration fees take effect?

The new fees will be effective from December 1, 2024.

How can I avoid paying the increased fees?

Submit your complete application before December 1 to lock in the lower fees.

What if I already submitted my application before December 1?

If your application is mailed before December 1 but received afterward, you will need to pay the difference. IRCC will provide instructions for payment.

Which applications are most affected by the fee increases?

The restoration of temporary resident status and criminal rehabilitation applications will see the highest fee increases.

Are online applications affected by the fee changes?

Online applications are processed immediately, so applicants will automatically pay the updated fees.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the content is accurate and up-to-date, it is not a substitute for professional legal consultation. Immigration laws and regulations are subject to change, and their application can vary based on specific circumstances. The authors and publishers of this article are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided herein

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