Fee Hike for Indians Applying for Canada PR

Canada's Department of Citizenship and Immigration recently issued a notice stating an increase in permanent residence fees for international residents seeking to settle in Canada. The hike affects various application fees, including the 'Right of Permanent Residence Fee,' which will rise from CAD 515 to CAD 575, representing a 12% increase.

This adjustment aligns with the Consumer Price Index for Canada, published by Statistics Canada, reflecting a cumulative percentage increase over the past two years. The new fees will take effect at 9:00:00 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time on April 30, 2024.

Alongside the 'Right of Permanent Residence Fee,' other application fees will also witness an increase. For instance, fees for skilled workers under the Federal Skilled Worker program, as well as those under the Provincial Nominee Program, Quebec Skilled Workers, and Atlantic Immigration Class, will escalate from CAD 850 to CAD 950. The revised fees also extend to accompanying spouses or common-law partners, rising from CAD 515 to CAD 575.

Moreover, fees for dependent children, who are exempt from the 'Right of Permanent Residence Fee,' will see a slight increase from CAD 230 to CAD 260. The adjustment aims to ensure that the permanent residence application process remains financially viable while accommodating dependents.

Additionally, fees for business applications, including those under the federal and Quebec business categories, will experience an uptick from CAD 1,625 to CAD 1,810. Similarly, sponsorship fees for family reunification immigration programs, which apply to sponsors bringing in spouses/partners, children, parents, grandparents, and other relatives, will rise from CAD 75 to CAD 85. Principal applicants under this stream will also face an increase in application fees, climbing from CAD 490 to CAD 545.

The decision to revise these fees comes amidst Canada's efforts to balance temporary and permanent residency arrivals. Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasized the importance of maintaining sustainable levels of temporary residents entering the country. He highlighted the expansion of the immigration levels plan to encompass both temporary and permanent resident arrivals, starting in the fall. This strategic approach aims to manage immigration flows effectively and ensure the long-term stability and prosperity of Canada's immigration system.

In 2022, Canada welcomed a significant number of permanent residents, with India emerging as the leading source country, contributing 27% of the total immigrants. A total of 437,120 individuals received permanent residency status during the year, reflecting Canada's continued appeal as a destination for immigrants seeking new opportunities and a better quality of life.

As the Canadian government navigates evolving immigration trends and priorities, adjustments to application fees reflect a commitment to maintaining a fair and sustainable immigration system. The revised fees aim to strike a balance between facilitating immigration and ensuring the financial viability of the application process for both applicants and the Canadian government.