Canada Increases Visa Fees for All Visitors and Workers Starting December 1
Canada’s Visa Fee Increases: What You Need to Know
Starting December 1, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will implement significant increases in visa application fees for visitors, workers, and students. This change will impact a wide range of applicants, particularly those seeking to restore their temporary resident status, return to Canada, or apply for temporary resident permits.
Key Changes and Affected Applications
The fee hikes will apply to several specific application types, including:
- Restoration of Temporary Resident Status for visitors, workers, and students
- Authorization to Return to Canada
- Criminal Rehabilitation Applications (both standard and serious criminality)
- Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) Applications
While the exact new fees have not yet been announced, applicants must be aware of the current fees to effectively navigate this transition:
- Restoration of Visitor Status: $229.00
- Restoration of Student Status: $379.00
- Restoration of Worker Status: $384.00
- Authorization to Return to Canada: $459.55
- Inadmissibility (Criminal Grounds): $229.77
- Inadmissibility (Serious Criminality Grounds): $1,148.87
- Temporary Resident Permit (TRP): $229.77
Implications of Paying Before the Increase
Applicants who submit complete applications and pay the current fees before December 1 will not be subject to the new charges. Online submissions will lock in the fee upon submission, while mailed applications may need to adhere to specific guidelines to ensure they are processed without incurring the increased fees.
Rationale Behind the Fee Increase
The IRCC has stated that these increases are necessary to cover the administrative costs involved in processing applications. As demand for immigration services continues to grow, maintaining efficiency and effectiveness in processing applications is essential.
The Impact of the New PGWP Policy
In a related development, the IRCC has decided to end extensions for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs). Previously, international graduates had the option to renew their permits under certain conditions. The new policy means that graduates must secure employment and apply for permanent residency within the original validity period of their PGWP.
This shift poses significant challenges:
- Limited Timeframe for Applications: Graduates must navigate the pressures of securing work experience and applying for permanent residency within a limited time.
- Increased Competition: With rising Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores in Express Entry draws, securing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency has become more challenging.
Conclusion
As Canada prepares to raise visa fees and implement strict new policies for international graduates, it is crucial for affected individuals to stay informed and proactive. The landscape of immigration is evolving, and understanding these changes will help applicants better navigate their options and plan for their future in Canada.
For those interested in further insights and updates regarding immigration policies, work permits, and visa processes, it is advisable to follow reliable news sources and join community groups for real-time information and support.
Waiting on Your IRCC Application? Get Insights with GCMS Notes.
The GCMS (Global Case Management System) is the platform used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage and process all immigration and visa applications. It contains detailed records of your application, including the processing stages, officer notes, and decisions made along the way.
