Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is set to increase fees for several types of visitor, worker, and student visas. The fee hike will impact applications for restoration of temporary resident status, authorization to return to Canada, criminal rehabilitation, and temporary resident permits.
Starting December 1st, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will implement fee increases for several categories of visitor, worker, and student visas.
The move is expected to impact a wide range of applicants, including those seeking to extend their stay, return to Canada, or obtain temporary resident permits. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect.
Types of Applications Affected by the Fee Increase
The upcoming changes to the visa fees will impact various applications, including:
• Restoration of Temporary Resident Status (visitors, workers, and students)
• Authorization to Return to Canada
• Criminal Rehabilitation Applications (covering both standard and serious criminality)
• Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) Applications
The IRCC has not yet disclosed the updated fee amounts for these categories, but they will be effective starting December 1.
What If You Pay the Old Application Fee?
In most cases, if applicants pay the current fee and submit their complete applications to the IRCC before the fee change, they won’t be impacted by the new charges. Here’s how the system works:
• Online Applications: These are received instantly, ensuring the fee is locked in upon submission.
• Mailed Applications: There might be a delay from the time you send the documents to when IRCC receives them. If the fee changes during this period, your application will still be processed if:
o You paid the complete, old fee.
o You submitted a complete application before the fee change.
o You mailed the application before December 1.
If any additional fees are required due to the increase, IRCC will provide instructions on how to make the additional payment.
How to Pay the Additional Fee Difference After December 1
For those who submit a paper application before the fee change but pay the old fee, IRCC might request the difference. Below are the steps to handle such cases:
1. Calculate the Fee Difference
• Determine the new fee and subtract the old fee you initially paid.
• Make sure to include fee adjustments for any family members if applicable.
2. Make the Payment
• Use IRCC’s online payment tool and select the “Make an additional payment or pay other fees” option.
• Enter the total fee difference under “Quantity.”
• One receipt will be generated for each payment. You can make multiple payments if necessary.
3. Obtain and Submit the Receipt
• Create or log in to your IRCC account.
• Follow the instructions in the fee request sent by IRCC to upload and submit the payment receipt.
Conclusion
The fee increases aim to cover the administrative costs associated with processing various types of applications. Applicants must be aware of these changes and ensure they submit any required documents before the December 1 deadline to avoid unexpected charges. Keep an eye out for further updates from the IRCC regarding the exact fee amounts once they are announced.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/canada-to-increase-fees-for-visitor-worker-and-student-visas-starting-december-1/
