Canada Immigration Fees Rise in 2025: What Applicants Must Know
Canada Increases Select Immigration Fees: What You Need to Know for 2025
Starting December 1, 2025, the Government of Canada has implemented an increase in specific immigration-related fees. Whether you’re applying for a work permit under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program or addressing inadmissibility issues, it’s important to know how these changes could affect your application — and your wallet. Let’s walk through what’s changing, who it affects, and what steps you need to take if you’ve already submitted your application.
Key Highlights
- New immigration fee structure took effect on December 1, 2025.
- Increases apply to inadmissibility-related applications and IEC work permits.
- Online applications submitted before the December 1 deadline are not affected.
- Paper applicants may need to pay the difference due to mail processing delays.
- IEC work permit fee increased by $5, affecting all categories under the program.
- Applicants can pay fee differences online if requested by IRCC.
Why Did Immigration Fees Go Up?
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reviews its fee structure periodically to reflect administrative costs and program demands. The latest update introduces modest increases to certain fees, aimed at maintaining efficient processing and supporting Canada’s immigration framework. While the changes aren’t drastic, it’s always a good idea to stay informed — especially if you’re in the middle of an application or planning to submit one soon.
Which Immigration Fees Have Increased?
Let’s break it down into two main categories affected by the fee hike:
1. Inadmissibility-Related Fees
If you’ve had issues with admissibility to Canada — for example, due to past criminality or overstaying your visa — you may need to submit a special application to return or restore your status. As of December 1, 2025, these fees have increased slightly across the board. Here’s a quick look at the updated fee schedule:
| Application Type | Old Fee | New Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Authorization to Return to Canada | $479.75 | $492.50 |
| Temporary Resident Permit | $239.75 | $246.25 |
| Criminal Rehabilitation – Criminality | $239.75 | $246.25 |
| Criminal Rehabilitation – Serious Criminality | $1,199.00 | $1,231.00 |
| Restoration of Visitor Status | $239.75 | $246.25 |
| Restoration of Worker Status (without new permit) | $239.75 | $246.25 |
| Restoration of Worker Status (with new permit) | $394.75 | $401.25 |
| Restoration of Student Status (without new permit) | $239.75 | $246.25 |
| Restoration of Student Status (with new permit) | $389.75 | $396.25 |
Quick Tip: If you’re unsure about your eligibility or next steps for restoring your status, check out our guide on restoring temporary resident status.
2. International Experience Canada (IEC) Program Fee
The International Experience Canada (IEC) program allows young adults from participating countries to live and work in Canada for up to two years. It includes three popular categories — Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op (Internship).
Effective December 1, 2025, the work permit processing fee under the IEC program has increased slightly:
| Old Fee | New Fee |
|---|---|
| $179.75 | $184.75 |
Although the increase is just $5, it applies to all participants, regardless of their IEC category. If you’re planning to apply for the 2026 season, this is something to budget for. Applications are only accepted after receiving an invitation to apply — so make sure you’re ready when the pools reopen.
Already Paid the Old Fee? Here’s What to Do
If you applied online and paid the fee before the changes took effect on December 1, 2025, you’re in the clear — no further action is required.
However, if you submitted a paper application prior to that date, there’s a chance IRCC didn’t receive and process it in time. In that case, you’ll likely receive a request to pay the difference between the old and new fee. Here’s how to handle it:
- Step 1: Calculate the fee difference based on your application type.
- Step 2: Head to IRCC’s online payment portal under the “Make an additional payment or pay other fees” section.
- Step 3: Enter the required payment amount and quantity.
- Step 4: Submit the receipt as per the instructions in the email or letter from IRCC.
Need a hand figuring all of this out? A consultation with a licensed immigration professional could help ensure you’re on the right track.
Planning Ahead: What This Means for Future Applicants
While these fee increases are relatively small, they serve as a reminder to always check the latest information before submitting your application. Whether you’re applying through the Manitoba PNP or looking into temporary programs like IEC, being proactive can save you both time and money.
It’s also a good idea to submit your application online whenever possible — not only is it faster, but it also helps avoid fee-related delays caused by mailing times.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s updated immigration fee structure reflects ongoing efforts to streamline processes and support national immigration goals. While the changes are minor, they can still catch applicants off guard if you’re not paying attention. So, whether you’re restoring your status, applying under IEC, or addressing inadmissibility concerns, now’s the time to double-check those numbers.
Still have questions or need assistance with your application? Don’t go it alone — reach out for professional advice to make sure your immigration journey is smooth and stress-free.
