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Canada permanent residence fee changes in 2024 (Effective April 30, 2024)

 

Planning your move to Canada? If you're aiming for permanent residence (PR), be mindful of upcoming adjustments to the associated fees.

 

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented these changes, effective April 30, 2024, to keep pace with Canada's inflation rate. Don't worry, this blog will guide you through everything you need to know.

 

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Key Points at a Glance


 

Effective Date: The fee increase applies to applications submitted on or after April 30, 2024.
Right of Permanent Residence (RPR) Fee: This fee increases from $515 to $575 for principal applicants and their accompanying spouses or common-law partners.
Other Program Fee Increases: Fees for programs like Federal Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and the Atlantic Immigration Class are also rising.

 

Understanding the New Fee Structure (April 2024 to March 2026)

 

Canada-immigration-cost-increase

 

Changes to PR fees

 


The following fee increases, which are marked as applicable to the period between April 2024 and March 2026, apply as follows:

 


Program

Applicants

Current fees (April 2022– March 2024)

New fees
(Apr 2024–Mar 2026)

Right of Permanent Residence Fee

Principal applicant and accompanying spouse or common-law partner

$515

$575

Federal Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, Atlantic Immigration Class and most economic pilots (Rural, Agri-Food)

Principal applicant

$850

$950

Federal Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, Atlantic Immigration Class and most economic pilots (Rural, Agri-Food)

Accompanying spouse or common-law partner

$850

$950

Federal Skilled Workers, Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, Atlantic Immigration Class and most economic pilots (Rural, Agri-Food)

Accompanying dependent child

$230

$260

Live-in Caregiver Program and caregivers pilots (Home Child Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot)

Principal applicant

$570

$635

Live-in Caregiver Program and caregivers pilots (Home Child Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot)

Accompanying spouse or common-law partner

$570

$635

Live-in Caregiver Program and caregivers pilots (Home Child Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot)

Accompanying dependent child

$155

$175

Business (federal and Quebec)

Principal applicant

$1,625

$1,810

Business (federal and Quebec)

Accompanying spouse or common-law partner

$850

$950

Business (federal and Quebec)

Accompanying dependent child

$230

$260

Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives)

Sponsorship fee

$75

$85

Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives)

Sponsored principal applicant

$490

$545

Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives)

Sponsored child (principal applicant under 22 years old and not a spouse/partner)

$75

$85

Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives)

Accompanying spouse or common-law partner

$570

$635

Family reunification (spouses, partners and children; parents and grandparents; and other relatives)

Accompanying dependent child

$155

$175

Protected persons

Principal applicant

$570

$635

Protected persons

Accompanying spouse or common-law partner

$570

$635

Protected persons

Accompanying dependent child

$155

$175

Humanitarian and compassionate consideration / Public policy

Principal applicant

$570

$635

Humanitarian and compassionate consideration / Public policy

Accompanying spouse or common-law partner

$570

$635

Humanitarian and compassionate consideration / Public policy

Accompanying dependent child

$155

$175

Permit holders

Principal applicant

$335

$375

 

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Important Exemptions to Remember


 

Dependent children and protected persons: These groups, including principal applicants and their families, are exempt from the RPR fee.
Family reunification sponsored children: Children under 22 years old in the family reunification class (without a spouse/partner) are also exempt from the sponsorship fee.
Humanitarian and compassionate consideration/public policy: Applicants under these categories may be exempt from the RPR fee under specific circumstances. You can find more details on the IRCC website.
Permit holders: These applicants cannot include accompanying family members in their PR application. Each family member must submit a separate PR application as a principal applicant.

 

Beyond the Fee Changes: Considerations for Your Immigration Journey


 

While the fee adjustments are important to be aware of, they are just one aspect of the immigration process. Here are some additional factors to consider as you plan your move to Canada:

 

Choosing the Right Immigration Program

 

Canada offers a variety of immigration programs catering to different skills, backgrounds, and goals. Some popular options include:


 

Express Entry System: This points-based system is a popular choice for skilled workers with work experience and language proficiency in English or French.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Each Canadian province has its own PNP, designed to address their specific labor market needs. These programs often have lower requirements compared to Express Entry.
Family Sponsorship: If you have a close family member who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible to immigrate under the family reunification program.
Business Immigration Programs: These programs are for individuals who want to invest in or establish a business in Canada.

 

Understanding Processing Times

 

Processing times for permanent residence applications can vary depending on the program you choose, your background, and your current workload at IRCC. 

 

Considering Medical Examinations

 

Most permanent residence applicants are required to undergo a medical examination by a doctor approved by IRCC. This ensures you meet Canada's health standards.

 

Gathering Required Documents

 

Each immigration program has a specific set of documents you need to submit with your application. Make sure to gather all the necessary documents well in advance to avoid delays.

 

Immigration Lawyer:
While not mandatory, consulting with an experienced immigration lawyer can be especially helpful for complex cases or if you have any uncertainties about the process.

 

Cost of Living:
Canada boasts a high quality of life, but it's essential to consider the cost of living, which can vary depending on the city or province you choose to settle in. Factor in housing, transportation, groceries, and other expenses when budgeting for your move.

 

Finding Employment:
Having strong work experience and language skills can significantly increase your chances of finding employment in Canada. Consider researching job markets in your target province and brushing up on your resume and interview skills.

 

Settling in Canada:
Immigrating to a new country can be exciting but also challenging. There are resources available to help you integrate into Canadian life, such as language training programs and settlement services. Familiarize yourself with these resources beforehand to ease your transition.

 

FAQs: Your Questions Answered


 

Can I pay the permanent residence fees online?

 

Yes, you can pay online through the IRCC website using a credit card or debit card.

 

What are the medical exam requirements for permanent residence applicants?

 

The specific requirements can vary depending on your circumstances. However, generally, you will need a medical exam report completed by a panel physician approved by IRCC.

 

Do I need a lawyer to apply for permanent residence in Canada?

 

No, it is not mandatory. However, a lawyer can provide valuable guidance and assistance, especially for complex cases.

 

What are the current processing times for Express Entry?

 

Processing times can fluctuate, but you can find the latest estimates on the IRCC website.

 

How can I improve my chances of getting approved for permanent residence?

 

Focus on programs that align with your skills and experience. Aim for strong scores in language tests and ensure you meet all program requirements. Presenting a well-organized application can also make a difference.

 

Conclusion

 

Planning for immigration to Canada requires careful consideration. While the recent fee increase is a factor, remember it's just one piece of the puzzle. 

 

By thoroughly researching different immigration programs, understanding processing times, and gathering the necessary documents, you can increase your chances of a successful application. 

 

Don't hesitate to utilize available resources and explore settlement services to ease your transition to your new Canadian life.

 

For more information related to a Canada permanent residency visa or any other visa Call or WhatsApp: +91 859 574 4633 or Email: [email protected]

 

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