April 15th, 2025 at 05:06 am

Canadian Citizenship 2025: New Application Fees Take Effect on March 31

Starting March 31, 2025, Canada will implement a 20% increase in the Right of Citizenship Fee for adult applicants. This change impacts anyone planning to apply for Canadian citizenship. Here’s what you need to know about the new fees, who they affect, and the application process.

If you plan to apply for Canadian citizenship soon, be prepared for a slight increase in fees. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will raise the Right of Citizenship Fee for adults from 100 to 119.75. Although this increase may seem minor, it affects every adult applicant. With many permanent residents eager to take the next step, understanding these changes is crucial.

Understanding the Costs: What You Will Pay

For adults aged 18 and over seeking Canadian citizenship, the total fee will now be $649.75. This amount includes a $530 processing fee and the adjusted Right of Citizenship Fee of $119.75. Here’s a breakdown of the updated fees:

What About Children and Stateless Adults?

Families can rejoice! The fee for children under 18 remains at $100. Stateless adults born to Canadian parents will only pay the new Right of Citizenship Fee of $119.75. Here’s a summary of fees for these groups:

• Minors under 18: Pay a flat $100.
• Stateless adults born to Canadian parents: Pay $119.75.

It’s important to note that the citizenship fee is consistent whether you apply online or by mail.

Avoid Payment Mistakes — IRCC Will Flag Them

If you pay the previous fee of $100 before or after the March 31 deadline, don’t worry. IRCC will not reject your application. However, they will notify you to pay the difference of $19.75.

Important Points:

• Applications submitted by mail before March 31 with the old fee will still be processed. You will receive a notice to pay the outstanding amount.
• Paying the correct fee upfront helps you avoid unnecessary delays.

Requirements for Canadian Citizenship

The fee increase is just one aspect of the citizenship journey. Here’s a quick checklist of requirements to become a Canadian citizen:

• Be a permanent resident.
• Reside in Canada for at least 3 out of the last 5 years (a minimum of 1,095 days).
• File your income taxes.
• Pass the Canadian citizenship test.
• Demonstrate language proficiency in English or French.
• Attend the citizenship ceremony and take the Oath of Citizenship.

Once you achieve citizenship, you unlock several significant benefits:

• Apply for a Canadian passport.
• Vote in federal, provincial, and municipal elections.
• Enjoy free admission to Canada’s national parks and cultural sites.

Final Thoughts: Is It Still Worth It?

Absolutely! While the $19.75 increase may be slight, the benefits of Canadian citizenship—ranging from global mobility to full civic participation—far exceed the cost. If you have delayed your application, now may be the perfect time to act. Just remember to verify the correct fee before submitting your application.