Maple News reports that Canada’s federal government is increasing fees for all permanent residence applications, with the new rates taking effect on April 30, 2026. The Right of Citizenship fee for applications for Canadian citizenship will rise as of March 31, 2026.
The increases apply across every PR category, covering economic programs such as Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, and Atlantic Immigration, as well as family sponsorship, protected persons, humanitarian and compassionate cases, and the Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF), which also increases.
Key changes include the following: the Right of Permanent Residence Fee rises from 575 to 600 for the principal applicant and accompanying spouse or common-law partner. In Federal High Skilled streams (Express Entry, PNP, Quebec Skilled Workers, Atlantic Immigration Class, and most economic pilots), the principal applicant fee goes from 950 to 990, with accompanying spouse or common-law partner also moving from 950 to 990, and dependent child from 260 to 270. For the Business category (Federal and Quebec), principal applicant climbs from 1,810 to 1,895; accompanying spouse or common-law partner from 950 to 990; dependent child from 260 to 270.
For Family reunification, the Sponsorship fee increases from 85 to 90, the sponsored principal applicant from 545 to 570, and the sponsored dependent child from 85 to 90. In the Protected Persons category, principal applicant and accompanying spouse or common-law partner rise from 635 to 660, while the dependent child increases from 175 to 180. The Humanitarian and Compassionate or Public Policy category sees principal, spouse, and dependent child fees move from 635/635/175 to 660/660/180 respectively. The Permit Holders class principal fee also increases from 375 to 390.
If you applied online and paid the old fees before the applicable dates, you won’t be affected by these changes. However, those who mailed a paper application before these dates may owe the difference, as there can be a delay between when you mail your submission and when Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada receives it.
The fee hike touches every PR category, meaning applicants, sponsors, and even employers sponsoring workers should review the new amounts as they plan future applications. For individuals and startups preparing talent immigration, it’s prudent to budget for these updated costs and consult a licensed immigration professional if you’re uncertain about your situation. Maple News will continue to monitor official guidance and provide updates as more details become available.