Canada has increased several major immigration-related fees, a change that affects temporary residents, work-permit applicants, and individuals seeking to restore their status or resolve inadmissibility concerns. The revised fee schedule took effect on December 1, 2025, following an official update from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The government explained that the adjustments were necessary due to rising application volumes and higher administrative expenses. IRCC stated that updated fees help maintain efficient processing across visa, work, and rehabilitation categories.
New Fee Structure
A number of key application categories have seen noticeable increases:
- Authorization to Return to Canada (ARC): US$492.50
- Temporary Resident Permit (TRP): US$246.25
- Restoration of Temporary Resident Status: US$246.25
- Criminal Rehabilitation – Regular Criminality: US$798
- Criminal Rehabilitation – Serious Criminality: US$1,231
- International Experience Canada (IEC) Work Permit: US$184.75
These updated fees apply to all applications submitted on or after December 1.
Who Must Pay the New Fees
IRCC clarified that the revised fees apply to new applicants submitting online or by paper after the effective date. Paper-based applicants who mailed their applications before the cutoff but whose documents were received afterward will be notified to pay the difference. Those who paid online before December 1 do not need to make additional payments.
According to IRCC, the approach ensures fairness for applicants while accommodating processing timelines.
Part of a Broader Trend
This increase follows a series of updates made throughout 2025. Earlier in the year, the government raised citizenship application fees for adults and increased required settlement funds for Express Entry applicants under the Federal Skilled Worker and Skilled Trades programs. Together, these changes indicate a broader tightening of financial requirements across different immigration streams.
Guidance for Applicants
Applicants are advised to review the new fee schedule carefully before submitting documents. Ensuring the correct payment is essential to avoid processing delays. Those applying by mail should monitor communication from IRCC in case additional payment is required. Individuals seeking restoration of status or criminal rehabilitation should anticipate the higher charges in their planning.
Conclusion
Canada’s updated immigration fees reflect the country’s effort to balance growing demand with sustainable processing standards. As more people apply for visas, work permits, and rehabilitation pathways, IRCC continues to adjust financial requirements to support administrative operations. Prospective applicants are encouraged to stay informed and budget accordingly.
