Canada has increased its citizenship fees for adult applicants by 20%, effective March 31, 2025. The Right of Citizenship Fee now stands at $119.75, up from $100. This change affects permanent residents aged 18 and above who are applying for Canadian citizenship.
New Fee Structure:
– Processing Fee: $530 (remains unchanged)
– Right of Citizenship Fee: $119.75 (increased from $100)
– Total Fee: $649.75 (up from $630)
Who is Affected?
– Adult applicants (18 years and older) seeking Canadian citizenship
– Stateless adults born to Canadian parents, who now pay the increased Right of Citizenship Fee of $119.75
Exemptions: Minors under 18 years old, whose application fee remains at $100¹ ²
Application Process:
To become a Canadian citizen, applicants must:
1. Meet Residency Requirements: Live in Canada for at least 3 out of the last 5 years (1,095 days)
2. File Taxes: Submit tax returns for at least 3 years within the 5-year period
3. Pass Citizenship Test: Demonstrate knowledge of Canada and its institutions
4. Prove Language Skills: Show proficiency in English or French
5. Attend Citizenship Ceremony: Take the oath of citizenship
Benefits of Citizenship:
– Apply for a Canadian passport
– Vote in federal, provincial, and municipal elections
– Enjoy free admission to Canada’s national parks and cultural attractions
If you submitted an online application before March 31, 2025, with the old fee, you won’t be affected. However, paper applications submitted before the deadline might require paying the $19.75 difference. If you pay the old fee after March 31, 2025, IRCC will flag your application and request the difference.
The fee increase aims to ensure the sustainability of Canada’s immigration services, but critics argue it may disproportionately affect low-income applicants and families. Advocacy groups have proposed fee waivers or income-based models to mitigate the impact.
